Soften the cream cheese: Cut the cream cheese into chunks and let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This helps it blend smoothly without lumps.
Add liquids to the blender first: Pour in the almond milk and heavy cream.
Starting with liquids helps the blades catch and blend more evenly.
Layer in flavor: Add the cream cheese, sweetener, vanilla, lemon juice, almond extract (if using), cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.
Blend, then adjust: Start on low and ramp up to high for 20–30 seconds. Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon juice as needed.
Control thickness: Add 1/2 cup of ice and blend again until smooth. For a thicker, milkshake-like smoothie, add more ice a little at a time and blend until creamy.
Finish and serve: Pour into a chilled glass.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few berries if you like.