Although similar, there are a few key differences between crème fraîche and cream cheese. The obvious difference is texture, as cream cheese is thick and crème fraîche is milky.

Crème fraîche is cream that's been allowed to sour and has a bright, tangy flavor that punctuates dishes. Cream cheese has a similar tang but is milder in overall flavor.

The velvety texture of crème fraîche adds a level of creaminess to soups and stews, kicks up the fluffiness of scrambled eggs, and is great to dollop on top of dishes.

Cream cheese is easier to spread than crème fraîche and can often work as a substitute. Although it doesn't dollop well, small portions can be melted in soups and stews.