Whether you’re spreading it on a bagel or using it in your favorite cheesecake recipe, cream cheese is a staple in many kitchens. But with so many brands and varieties available in local markets, how do you choose the best one? Fear not, as we have taken on the arduous task of taste-testing several popular and less-known brands to give you the lowdown on which cream cheeses are worth your money and which you might want to skip.

After extensive tasting, we have concluded that not all cream cheeses are created equal. Here’s our take on the luscious world of cream cheese – the good, the bad, and the simply unspreadable.

The Standouts:

1. Brand A – Impressively creamy with just the right hint of tanginess, Brand A tops our list. Not only does it spread like a dream right out of the refrigerator, but it also has a freshness that can enhance any recipe.

2. Brand B – If you prefer a slightly more pronounced cheesy flavor, Brand B might be for you. It’s rich without being overpowering and has a smooth texture that belies its density.

3. Brand C – For those who love organic options, Brand C is a clear winner. It’s sourced from organically-fed cows and doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives. The taste is clean, pure, and slightly milder than others but still pleasing to the palate.

Middle of the Pack:

1. Brand D – A decent option for everyday use that won’t disappoint but also won’t wow you. Its consistency is slightly firmer than ideal, which can make spreading a bit of a struggle when cold.

2. Brand E – This brand has an almost whipped quality to it which some testers liked for its ease of spreading. However, it sacrifices some flavor intensity for this texture – something to keep in mind depending on your preferences.

The Letdowns:

1. Brand F – Unfortunately, Brand F didn’t live up to expectations. It had an artificial aftertaste that was off-putting to many of our testers and a watery texture that doesn’t hold up well in recipes.

2. Brand G – As much as we wanted to find a hidden gem among the less popular brands, Brand G was too grainy for our liking and lacked the necessary creaminess you’d expect from a good quality cream cheese.

In conclusion, whether your usage leans toward bagels and toast or fancy appetizers and desserts, opting for one of our top picks will ensure that your dish starts with a base of deliciousness. Remember though, taste is subjective; what tickles your palate might not be someone else’s cup of tea – or schmear of cream cheese!