Take the 2 ounces cream cheese out of the fridge to come to room temperature while you chill equipment. Place a mixing bowl and the whisk/beaters in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
Pour 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the cream until stiff peaks form (peaks hold a firm point and do not fold over).
In a separate bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps.
Add the sifted 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (choose one). Beat until well combined and smooth.
Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in two additions: gently fold in half the whipped cream to lighten the base, then fold in the remaining whipped cream until no white streaks remain. Do not overmix.
Use immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm before serving.