A cheese spread is a quick and tasty option to enhance the flavor and add creaminess to your snack or meal. It comes in handy when you are pressed for time and need something that's filling and equally delicious. Plus, it also doubles as an instant dip for chips as well as a sauce for your culinary creations.
Definitely, there are a lot of variations, from natural to processed, and to different types of packaging, textures, and flavor. That is why we've put up a list of the 10 best cheese dips you can buy online. Still can't choose which among the products to go for? Our buying guide, fact-checked by nutritionist-dietitian Samantha Morales, will help you navigate all there is to know!
Quick List - Top Cheese Spreads
Samantha began her career in clinical nutrition and weight management at a tertiary hospital in Manila, Philippines. Her practice allowed her to give nutrition counseling and plan modified diets for patients with medical conditions. Presently, she does private practice to focus on true holistic wellness - an approach that believes in aligning one's mind, body, and spiritual well-being.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Essentially, cheese spreads can be split into two categories: natural or processed. Natural cheese spreads contain few ingredients, which in turn, lead to its mild yet pure cheesy taste. On the other hand, processed cheese has a more concentrated and sharp cheesy flavor and can last long even when opened.
Natural cheese only makes use of simple, natural, and minimal ingredients such as milk, salt, enzymes, and natural colors. They are often mild in flavor and rather creamy as a result of the natural fat content found in the animal’s milk. In addition, these are on the pricier end when it comes to cheese spreads because of the fresh and premium ingredients.
This type often undergoes pasteurization to kill off harmful bacteria, after which a clotting enzyme is added to create curds, which is when milk solidifies. Whey is extracted from the curds, which is the remaining, almost transparent liquid. However, it does not have a long shelf life and often needs to be refrigerated to avoid spoilage.
Processed cheese comes from natural cheese in which binding agents, stabilizers, emulsifiers, and even artificial preservatives are used to improve water retention. It results in a soft and smooth body that is easily spreadable at room temperature and does not become oily or separate. Moreover, they usually have a strong salty and cheesy flavor.
Because of the additives, it has a longer shelf life when properly stored before and after opening the pack. However, this also means the actual cheese content is only about 50%. Go-to cheese spread and all-around household staple Cheez Whiz is a notable example of a processed cheese spread.
A great way to add variety to your pantry is to go for flavored spreads. Why not go for an herb and cream cheese spread over hot pan de sal or a pimiento studded cheese spread for a cheesy and slightly sweet filling on tasty bread? There are even cream cheese spreads that are infused with ingredients such as mushrooms and veggies, which doubles as a pasta sauce for an instant dinner fix!
Last but not the least, we will be looking at the packaging of cheese spreads. More than being an outer covering, the packaging plays a significance in how spreadable the cheese is. Cheese spreads usually come in tubs, individual wrappings, jars, bottles, or plastic pouches. Find out their differences in this section.
Cheese in tubs are convenient because it has the ideal smooth and spreadable texture. Sometimes they even have mayo or yogurt-like consistency, which makes them a versatile companion in the kitchen. You could use it as a filling for sandwiches as well as in cooking or baking. Some varieties even come in different flavors such as herbs and spices.
Some cheeses come in individual triangles or blocks which are a bit firm and condensed but spreadable as well. This is handy if you need a quick snack to munch on or if you're preparing snacks for one or a few people. This also ensures that you open a fresh one every time you eat it and you get to avoid dealing with leftovers or worrying about spoilage.
Typically, cheese spreads in jars or bottles come in a semi-liquid form. This makes it easy to spread, drizzle, and even serve as a base for dips and sauces. An unopened bottle could easily be stored unrefrigerated and have a relatively long shelf life. Some brands even have an easy squeeze or tingi pack, which is ideal if you have a small family.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Cheez Whiz Original Spread | ![]() | Versatile Flavor That’s Perfectly Balanced | |
2 | Wildflour Honey Cheese Pimiento | ![]() | Spice Up Your Mornings With a Honey Pimiento Spread | |
3 | Philadelphia Spreadable Cream Cheese | ![]() | Plain and Creamy Base for Savory and Sweet Dishes | |
4 | Arla Cheesy Spread | ![]() | A Lusciously Creamy and Mild Spread for Your Sandwiches | |
5 | All About Cashew Vegan Cheese Dip | ![]() | Deliciously Vegan and Healthy! | |
6 | Nanay Luisa's Truffle Queso de Bola Spread | ![]() | Add a Sophisticated Twist to Your Pantry With a Truffle Queso de Bola Spread | |
7 | DVF Dairy Farm Gourmet Cheese | ![]() | All-Natural Cheese Spread Made From Carabao’s Milk | |
8 | Pan De Manila Herb Cream Cheese | ![]() | Boost Your Mornings With an Herb and Cream Cheese Spread | |
9 | Emborg Processed Cheese Triangles | ![]() | A Handy On-the-Go Snack | |
10 | Magnolia Cheezee Squeeze Plain | ![]() | Fortified Cheese Spread for Growing Kids |
Cheez Whiz is a household staple in Filipino households, so much so that it has become synonymous with the word cheese spread itself. It has nailed the balance of creaminess and saltiness rounded out by just a hint of tanginess to prevent you from becoming too umay, serving as a chichirya dip to an instant mac and cheese sauce. It is also great for papak too!
Its taste is definitely one of those things you keep coming back to, particularly during merienda time. Texture-wise, it holds up well on the spoon without the danger of dribbling down but spreads effortlessly on bread. Who else can remember how the mixture springs back after you’re done scooping?
Wildflour presents a more sophisticated version of the cheese pimiento spread we know and love. The blend of premium ingredients in cheddar cheese, cream cheese, roasted bell peppers, piquillo peppers, Calabrian chili, and honey is definitely delectable. It has a balanced taste of sweet, spicy, and salty that will make you crave more.
No need to slave over the kitchen for countless hours as you can instantly whip up a fancy snack! This is great to use for hors d'oeuvres like toasts and canapés, as well as a dip for crunchy veggies. Because this uses the finest natural ingredients, it does not contain preservatives, so it is recommended to store it inside the refrigerator and consume it within 4 days.
Everyone’s favorite cream cheese from Philadelphia now comes in a spreadable version but still with the same distinct creamy taste and texture we're used to. The balanced creaminess and tanginess go well as a spread for bread or eaten on its own. The signature taste is a product of fresh milk and real cream from Australian farms.
It also makes for a great base in case you want to get creative with savory sauces and dips. In addition, it can be used in making delectable desserts such as cheesecakes, popsicles, and other baked goods. This cream cheese comes in a light version which has 40% less fat compared to the original variant.
Unlike most processed cheese spreads in the market, which is a vibrant yellow, Arla’s comes in white color. Its flavor is ideal if you want a spread that falls on the creamier and milkier side of the spectrum. It has a rather mild taste, which makes it a great filling for sandwiches, as it is not too overpowering.
Reviewers have noted that it is best paired with a hot pan de sal or toast because of its creamy taste. What sets them apart is that their formula contains 90% fresh cow’s milk, which contributes to its velvety taste. It might be a little runny, so take care not to spill some when eating!
This list wouldn't be complete without a non-dairy option for people on a plant-based diet. All About Cashew has crafted a certified vegan, gluten-free, keto-friendly, sugar-free, low-carb, and low-sodium cheese dip or spread made mainly from cashews. With this spread, you can now enjoy a cheese spread that tastes as close as the dairy-based ones but without the guilt!
This is touted by many as a snack fit for any time of the day. It is great as an appetizer and basically, for any time you're hungry! Just spread it on baguettes, crackers, garlic bread, or chips. You could even use it as a topping for pasta or an add-on for mains like steak. If you prefer an added kick, there is a spicy variant available.
No need to wait for the Christmas season just to eat queso de bola. Now, it is yours for the taking - in a jar version that is. You can now eat queso de bola all year round! All thanks to Nanay Luisa's and Solenn Manila, who collaborated on this exquisite and savory truffle-flavored queso de bola spread.
It uses shredded pure Edam cheese, mayonnaise, black truffle, and herbs and spices. Even though their recipe is made up of only a few ingredients, it does not overpower one another. Aside from bread, you could also use it on omelets, salads, and crackers. It is one that certainly adds a unique twist to your usual cheese spreads.
As a dairy cooperative, DVF Farms offer an assortment of dairy products ranging from milk to Greek yogurt. Their gourmet cheese makes use of their signature kesong puti produced from carabao’s milk, which contributes to its creamier taste and texture. It is cooked in olive oil and Italian seasoning as well as herbs for that extra flavor.
Think of it as the homegrown equivalent to those marinated feta cheeses you see in the supermarket. Sink your teeth into its deliciousness by serving it warm and spread it on toasted bread, crackers, and salads. Resist the urge to eat it right out of the jar by using a serving spoon to avoid contaminating the whole bottle.
Make your mornings more delightful with this herb and cream cheese spread from Pan De Manila. They are known for their modern take on the humble panaderia, making it accessible to those who crave baked goods in the Metro. They also offer an assortment of pantry staples such as peanut butter and coco jam.
This herb and cream cheese is just the right mix of creamy and garlicky. It even has bits of parsley that provide a hint of tang to keep it from being too creamy. It is best paired with a steaming hot pan de sal for ultimate enjoyment. If you want a lighter snack in the afternoon, it pairs well with crackers too!
Emborg has been manufacturing different kinds of frozen food, including processed cheese, since 1947. This fact only speaks for the quality of their cheese triangles. They taste mild and creamy with a spreadable texture, perfect for when you want something malinamnam slathered on your bread. It also tastes great on its own, or even as a side for meals!
Not only are they tasty, but they are also a good source of calcium and protein. Individually wrapped cheese is convenient especially if you are in a rush. You can just simply grab one and be on your way. It makes it easier to bring them for picnics or as baon seeing as you don’t have to bring the whole tub or jar with you while avoiding any leftovers.
Magnolia Cheezee is cheddar-flavored, which has a versatile taste but is rather salty. It possesses that strong cheesy flavor we look for in a spread yet it has hints of sweetness akin to margarine. This cheese spread is ideal for those who want their palaman to be on the sweeter side, especially the young ones.
Not only that, because it is even fortified with vitamins A and B as well as minerals calcium and zinc to help kids grow strong. While most cheese spreads come in a jar or tub, the plastic pouch with a small resealable cap makes it easier to squeeze the cheese out and distribute it evenly on bread.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Since cheese spreads are composed mainly of dairy, they contain a high-fat percentage contributing to the number of calories. On average, one tablespoon of cheese spread is roughly 44 calories. However, the value varies depending on the ingredients added. With that, follow the serving size, usually 1 to 2 tablespoons if you're watching calorie count, or choose low-fat or light variants instead.
Natural cheese spreads should be consumed within 3 days to 1 week. Before you buy this type, make sure that you will finish it immediately to avoid wastage. This is contrary to processed cheese spreads that can last for about a month as long as it is refrigerated after being opened. Ultimately, it is best to ask the seller or refer to the label regarding the exact expiration date and storage options.
Cheese spreads are commonly slathered on bread, toast, and sandwiches. Crackers, canapés, and pizza can also be topped with any cheese spread of your liking to add a creamy richness. Furthermore, they can serve as a dip for fresh vegetables and chips. For cooking, you can incorporate cheese spreads into pasta sauces and dishes like mac and cheese.
Other than a tub or bottle of cheese spread, of course, it is ideal to have a selection of spreads in your pantry like cream cheese, butter, and mayonnaise so you won't run out of options for a quick and easy meal or snack any time of the day. Check out these other tasty palamans for your pan de sals and tasty bread!
Author: J. Cuizon
Re-editor: Patricia Catimpo
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Cheez Whiz|Original Spread
No. 2: Wildflour|Honey Cheese Pimiento
No. 3: Philadelphia|Spreadable Cream Cheese
No. 4: Arla|Cheesy Spread
No. 5: All About Cashew|Vegan Cheese Dip
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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