Ricotta (strained) Substitute for Cream Cheese: Exact Ratio
Looking for a cream cheese substitute? Ricotta (strained) works as a direct replacement. Use 1 cup strained ricotta per 1 cup cream cheese in any recipe that calls for cream cheese. This swap works best for baking, pasta fillings, dips.
Best Substitute
Ricotta (strained)
1 cup strained ricotta per 1 cup cream cheese
Strain ricotta through cheesecloth for 2 hours to thicken. Lighter texture but works well in baking and fillings.
Flavor & Texture Change
Milder and less tangy than cream cheese. Slightly grainy texture even when strained. Works well in baked dishes like lasagna, stuffed shells, and cheesecake (Italian-style).
When Not to Use
Must be strained through cheesecloth for several hours to remove excess moisture. Even strained, it is grainier than cream cheese. Not suitable for smooth frostings or glazes.
Tips When Replacing Cream Cheese in Recipes
Cream cheese provides both structure and richness. In cheesecakes, its high fat and low moisture create a dense, creamy texture. Substitutes that are too wet (like yogurt) may need additional thickening or reduced liquid elsewhere in the recipe.
What Is Cream Cheese and Why Substitute It?
A soft, mild, slightly tangy fresh cheese with a smooth and creamy texture. Essential in cheesecakes, frostings, bagel spreads, and savory dips.
Ricotta (strained) is one of 6 alternatives you can use instead of cream cheese. For a complete list of cream cheese substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full cream cheese substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
Mascarpone instead of Cream Cheese
View substitute ratio →
Neufchâtel Cheese instead of Cream Cheese
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Greek Yogurt (strained) instead of Cream Cheese
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Cashew Cream Cheese instead of Cream Cheese
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Silken Tofu + Lemon Juice instead of Cream Cheese
View substitute ratio →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ricotta (strained) instead of cream cheese?
Yes, you can use ricotta (strained) as a substitute for cream cheese. Use 1 cup strained ricotta per 1 cup cream cheese. Strain ricotta through cheesecloth for 2 hours to thicken. Lighter texture but works well in baking and fillings.
How much ricotta (strained) equals cream cheese?
Use 1 cup strained ricotta per 1 cup cream cheese to replace cream cheese with ricotta (strained). Works best for baking, pasta fillings, dips.
What is the best substitute for cream cheese?
Ricotta (strained) is a popular substitute for cream cheese. Use 1 cup strained ricotta per 1 cup cream cheese for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 6 alternatives on our cream cheese substitute page.
Does ricotta (strained) change the taste when replacing cream cheese?
Must be strained through cheesecloth for several hours to remove excess moisture. Even strained, it is grainier than cream cheese. Not suitable for smooth frostings or glazes.