There are several ways to soften cream cheese and make it easier to work with.   Room temperature: Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for 30 to 60 minutes. Doing so will soften the cream cheese gradually without becoming too warm.   Microwave: Remove the cream cheese from the packaging and put it in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it on high for 15 seconds at a time, until it reaches your desired softness. Be careful not to overheat the cream cheese, as the it may become too soft or even melt.   Warm water bath: Take the cream cheese out of the packaging and put it in a sealed plastic bag. Fill a bowl with warm water (not boiling!) and place the bag of cream cheese in the water until it softens (10 to 15 minutes).