Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy cheeses! There’s nothing quite like the taste and satisfaction of making your own cheese at home. Not only can you control the ingredients and flavors, but it’s also a fun and rewarding process that will have you hooked from the very first batch.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes for homemade cheeses that are sure to become new favorites. From creamy mozzarella and ricotta to tangy feta and gouda, we’ve got you covered with a range of flavors and textures to suit every taste. Whether you’re a cheese lover, a foodie, or just looking for a fun project to try at home, these recipes are sure to delight. So grab your cheesecloth, get ready to get cheesy, and let’s dive into the world of creamy homemade cheese!
Homemade Mozzarella Cheese
Transform your pasta dishes and caprese salads with this simple homemade mozzarella cheese recipe. With just a few ingredients and some gentle heat, you’ll be enjoying creamy, melted mozzarella in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon whole milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon cheese cultures (available at homebrew stores or online)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the milk, heavy cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches 86°F (30°C).
2. Remove from heat and add the citric acid and cheese cultures. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. Allow the mixture to sit for 45-60 minutes, or until it has thickened and formed a clean break when cut with a knife.
4. Cut the curds into small pieces and stir in gently.
5. Line a colander with cheesecloth and place over a large bowl. Carefully pour the curds into the cheesecloth.
6. Let the mixture drain for 15-20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been removed.
Cooking Time: None necessary
Easy Ricotta Cheese
Easy Ricotta Cheese Recipe
Summary: Make your own ricotta cheese at home with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. This recipe yields a creamy, delicious ricotta perfect for using in pasta dishes, lasagna, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 180°F to 190°F (82°C to 88°C).
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the white vinegar.
3. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes, or until it has curdled and separated into distinct curds and whey.
4. Line a strainer with cheesecloth or a clean, thin kitchen towel. Place the strainer over a bowl and carefully pour the ricotta mixture into the cheesecloth.
5. Let the ricotta drain for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been removed and the cheese has reached your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Creamy Cottage Cheese
Transform plain cottage cheese into a rich and creamy treat with just a few simple ingredients and steps.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, breaking up any lumps with a spoon or whisk.
3. Add the honey or maple syrup, if using, and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.
Fresh Farmer’s Cheese
Make the most of your fresh milk with this simple recipe for homemade farmer’s cheese. This classic farmhouse treat is perfect for snacking, baking, or as a delicious addition to your favorite recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon cheese salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vinegar (white wine or apple cider)
Instructions:
1. Combine the milk and heavy cream in a large pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 180°F to 190°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese salt and vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, allowing the mixture to curdle and separate into curds and whey.
3. Line a colander with cheesecloth or a clean, thin kitchen towel. Carefully pour the curdled milk mixture into the lined colander.
4. Allow the excess liquid (whey) to drain off for about 10-15 minutes. Gather up the edges of the cheesecloth and give the cheese a gentle squeeze to remove any remaining whey.
5. Transfer the fresh farmer’s cheese to an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Homemade Cheddar Cheese
Create a rich and creamy cheddar cheese from scratch with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy the perfect snack or add it to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon mesophilic cheese culture (available at home brew or winemaking supply stores)
– 1/2 teaspoon cheese salt
– 1/4 teaspoon annatto (optional, for color)
– 2 tablespoons vinegar (white wine or apple cider)
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese starter (available at most health food stores or online)
Instructions:
1. Heat the milk to 86°F (30°C).
2. Add the mesophilic cheese culture and stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. Let it sit for 45 minutes to allow the bacteria to grow.
4. Add the heavy cream, cheese salt, annatto (if using), and vinegar. Stir until dissolved.
5. Add the cheddar cheese starter and stir gently.
6. Pour the mixture into a cheesecloth-lined colander over a pot.
7. Let it drain for 30 minutes to form curds.
8. Cut the curds into small pieces and let them sit at room temperature (72°F/22°C) for 2 hours.
9. Shape the cheese into a ball or log, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.
Cooking Time:
– Total time: 4 hours
– Cooling time: 30 minutes
– Aging time: 12-24 hours
Simple Paneer Cheese
This simple paneer cheese recipe yields a delicious and creamy paneer at home with minimal effort. Perfect as a snack or used in various Indian dishes, this homemade paneer is a game-changer!
Ingredients:
– 1 liter whole milk
– 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Boil the milk in a large pot until it reaches a temperature of 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
3. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to curdle.
4. Line a strainer with cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth. Place the strainer over a large bowl or pot.
5. Carefully pour the curdled milk into the lined strainer.
6. Let the whey separate from the paneer for about 10-15 minutes.
7. Gather up the edges of the cheesecloth and give the paneer a gentle squeeze to remove excess liquid (whey).
8. Transfer the paneer to a plate or tray, shape as desired, and refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your homemade simple paneer cheese!
Goat Cheese with Herbs
Elevate your snacking game with this creamy and refreshing goat cheese infused with the brightness of fresh herbs. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or as a topping for crackers, bread, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz goat cheese (chèvre), crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine crumbled goat cheese, parsley, chives, and lemon zest.
2. Mix until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the cheese.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Serve: With crackers, bread, or as a topping for vegetables or crackers. Enjoy!
Homemade Cream Cheese
Make your own creamy cheese at home with just a few simple ingredients! This recipe yields a delicious and tangy cream cheese that’s perfect for spreading on bagels, using as a dip, or baking into cheesecakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 86°F (30°C).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the white vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the mixture to curdle.
3. Line a strainer with cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth. Place the strainer over a bowl and carefully pour the cream mixture into it.
4. Let it drain for about 30-45 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been removed and you’re left with a thick, creamy cheese.
5. Gather up the edges of the cheesecloth and give the cheese a good squeeze to remove any remaining liquid.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour (including curdling time)
Baked Feta Cheese
Elevate your gatherings with this surprisingly easy and addictive baked feta cheese recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be the talk of the town.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of feta cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the feta cheese on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the feta, then sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the feta is melted and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
7. Serve warm, either on its own or paired with crackers, bread, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Gouda Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and smoky cheese recipe. Perfect for parties or as a quick appetizer, smoked Gouda is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Gouda cheese (approximately 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the Gouda cheese on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle the liquid smoke over the cheese, spreading it evenly with a spatula or spoon.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Homemade Queso Fresco
Freshly made queso fresco is a staple in many Latin American households. This simple recipe yields a delicious and crumbly cheese perfect for snacking, grilling, or using as a topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vinegar (white wine or apple cider)
– 1 tablespoon citric acid powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches 180°F to 190°F.
2. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the mixture to cool slightly.
3. Add vinegar and citric acid powder (if using). Stir gently for about 30 seconds to create curds.
4. Line a colander with cheesecloth or a clean, thin kitchen towel. Carefully pour the mixture into the lined colander.
5. Let it drain for 10-15 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been removed and you’re left with a crumbly cheese.
6. Gather up the edges of the cheesecloth or towel and give the cheese a gentle squeeze to remove any remaining liquid.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic and Herb Cheese Spread
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful cheese spread, perfect for crackers, bread, or veggies. This recipe combines the richness of cheese with the pungency of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, and chives.
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This spread is ready to use straight away.
Homemade Halloumi Cheese
Halloumi cheese is a Cypriot delight that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle heat, you can create this salty, milky treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 500ml whole milk
– 1/4 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
– 1 tablespoon rennet powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the milk and vinegar. Heat gently over medium heat until the mixture reaches 90°C (194°F).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the rennet powder. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture has curdled and separated into solid curds and whey.
3. Cut the curds into small pieces and let them sit for another 10-15 minutes, allowing excess liquid to drain off.
4. Transfer the curds to a cheesecloth-lined colander set over a bowl. Let it drain for about an hour, until most of the liquid has been removed.
5. Gather up the edges of the cloth and twist to form a tight ball. Shape into desired forms (e.g., logs or cylinders).
6. Sprinkle with salt and let it age at room temperature for 2-3 days before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this cheese is served fresh!
Pepper Jack Cheese
This recipe yields a deliciously spicy and savory cheese that’s perfect for snacking or adding flavor to your favorite dishes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this mouthwatering Pepper Jack Cheese at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped jalapeño peppers
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, green peppers, jalapeño peppers, paprika, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or cheese mold.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cheese with Walnuts
This classic combination of tangy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts is a simple yet impressive appetizer or snack. The pungent flavors of the blue cheese are perfectly balanced by the earthy sweetness of the walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola), crumbled
– 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts.
3. Drizzle the honey over the mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Homemade Brie Cheese
Transform your dinner parties with this creamy, soft-ripened Brie cheese recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a rich and flavorful cheese that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon whole milk
– 1/4 cup cheese cultures (specifically mesophilic type)
– 1/4 teaspoon rennet
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon cream
Instructions:
1. Combine the milk, cheese cultures, and rennet in a large pot. Heat the mixture to 86°F (30°C) for 45 minutes to allow the cultures to grow.
2. Add the salt and cream to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
3. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 5-7 days, or until it has reached the desired consistency and flavor.
4. Once set, remove the cheese from the mold and wrap it in cheesecloth or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 days
Spicy Jalapeño Cheese
This creamy cheese spread is a perfect combination of spicy and savory flavors, great for snacking or using as a dip for your favorite foods. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this deliciously addictive treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeño, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or ramekin.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Homemade Colby Cheese
Create a delicious and creamy cheese at home with this simple recipe for homemade Colby cheese. With just a few ingredients and some basic steps, you can enjoy the rich flavor of Colby cheese without leaving your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon whole milk
– 1/4 cup cheese cultures (Colby or mesophilic)
– 1/4 teaspoon liquid rennet
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Pour the milk into a large pot and heat it to 86°F (30°C).
2. Add the cheese cultures and stir gently for about 30 seconds.
3. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 45 minutes, or until you see signs of fermentation (curdling).
4. Add the liquid rennet and stir gently for about 30 seconds.
5. Let the mixture sit for another 30-40 minutes, or until it has fully coagulated.
6. Cut the curds into small pieces and let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
7. Drain the whey and shape the curds into a ball or log.
8. Sprinkle with salt and let it age at room temperature for 2-3 days before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including fermentation time)
Enjoy your homemade Colby cheese!
Truffle Infused Cheese
Elevate your cheese game with this decadent truffle infused cheese recipe, perfect for impressing your guests at your next dinner party or simply satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon truffle oil
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the truffle oil and whisk until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with sea salt to taste.
6. Pour the infused cheese mixture into a serving dish or ramekin.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled recipe.
Sweet Mascarpone Cheese
Transform heavy cream into a rich and creamy sweet mascarpone cheese with this simple recipe. Perfect for topping cakes, waffles, or even using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream (40% fat)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon tartaric acid
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture reaches 170°F (77°C).
2. Remove from heat and let cool to 70°F (21°C). Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Once chilled, whip the mixture with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
4. Add tartaric acid and whip until well combined.
5. Transfer the sweet mascarpone cheese to a serving dish or airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Summary
Indulge in the creamy world of homemade cheese with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic Mozzarella and Ricotta to innovative Goat Cheese with Herbs, there’s a recipe for every taste. Discover how to make Cheddar, Paneer, Cream Cheese, Feta, Gouda, Queso Fresco, and more in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or an impressive appetizer, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cheese cravings.
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