The Best Way to Quickly Soften Cream Cheese

It works for butter, too!

We love a good hack that makes things easier in the kitchen. Whether it’s helping turn cold butter into one that's more spreadable in a matter of seconds, or simply grating our jalapeño into a dust-like spice to kick up our dishes, we’re all about getting things done efficiently while saving us some time in between.

Since we love all things cream cheese, we knew this latest trick was right up our alley. If there's a way to soften cream cheese super fast for whipping up our favorite frosting or our go-to New York cheesecake recipe, then we’re definitely in. Here’s how to do it.

How to Soften Cream Cheese Fast

On days when you suddenly feel the urge to bake, there's not always time to plan ahead and that includes waiting for ingredients like cream cheese to get to room temperature. Thankfully, there's a way to get that cream cheese nice and soft in about the same time it will take to take out everything else you need for the recipe (Don't worry, we've also got you covered for butter).

To easily and quickly soften cream cheese, all you have to do is take it out of the fridge and place the entire unopened package in hot water. Keep it in its wrapper and wait for three minutes. After the time is up, remove the packaged cream cheese from the hot water, and voila! Super soft and creamy, and ready for your enjoyment.

When you take the packaged cream cheese out of the water, it may feel extra heavy or even soggy, as though there is water inside. Don’t worry! Once you open the package, you’ll be pleasantly surprised that the cream cheese has softened and there is no water to ruin it.

Read the original article on All Recipes.