Soft cheeses are a delight for many cheese lovers. They offer a range of textures and flavors, from rich and creamy to tangy and salty.
Soft cheeses can be perfect for spreading on bread, enhancing salads, or serving as part of a cheese platter.
Each type brings its unique taste and texture, making every bite an enjoyable experience.
Dive into the world of soft cheeses and discover new favorites to elevate your meals.
1) Brie
Brie is a delightful soft cheese that comes from the Brie region in France. It is made from cow’s milk and boasts a creamy, buttery texture.
Brie has a soft, edible rind of white mold, which adds to its unique flavor.
This cheese is pale in color with a slight grayish tinge. Brie is traditionally aged in large wheels or rounds.
When you taste it, you’ll notice a mild, slightly nutty flavor that is simply irresistible.
One of the most popular types is Brie de Meaux, known for its soft, creamy texture and slightly pungent aroma.
Another type is Brie de Melun, which has its own distinct taste and characteristics.
You can enjoy Brie in many ways. Try it on crackers or bread, melt it on toast, or even bake it with a touch of honey or fruit for a delicious treat.
Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack or a fancy appetizer.
The next time you’re at a cheese shop, consider trying a piece of Brie. It is sure to please your taste buds and add a touch of elegance to your cheese platter.
2) Camembert
Camembert is a delicious, soft cheese that hails from Normandy, France. Made from raw cow’s milk, it was first created by Marie Harel in 1791.
This cheese has a smooth, creamy texture with a bloomy rind. Its color is pale yellow, and it offers a sweet flavor that pairs well with various foods.
You can enjoy Camembert on its own, but it also goes wonderfully with fruits, nuts, and bread.
It’s versatile, making it a great addition to cheese boards and gourmet recipes.
Camembert is perfect for melting, baking, or simply spreading on crackers. For a treat, try it with a glass of wine or cider. The combination is delightful!
Camembert is an artisan cheese, known for its high quality and authentic taste. It’s a must-try if you love exploring different types of cheeses.
Always store your Camembert in a cool place to keep it fresh and flavorful. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite among cheese lovers around the world!
3) Roquefort
Roquefort is a famous blue cheese from southern France. It comes from the village of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon. This cheese is made from the milk of the Lacaune breed of sheep.
The creamy texture of Roquefort is achieved through aging in natural caves. These caves are found in the cliffs above the village. The cheese absorbs moisture and flavors as it ages.
The blue mold in Roquefort is unique. It adds a spicy and earthy flavor. This mold contrasts with the creaminess to make the cheese taste savory and complex.
EU law protects the Roquefort name. Only cheeses aged in the Combalou caves can be called Roquefort. This gives Roquefort its special status and ensures its quality.
You’ll find Roquefort cheese in many dishes. It can be used in salads, on bread, or as a topping. Its strong flavor pairs well with various foods.
Learn more about Roquefort’s rich history and flavor from these sources: CheeseOrigin, Castello, and Wikipedia.
4) Chevre
Chevre is a type of goat cheese that you will love if you enjoy tangy and creamy flavors. Made from goat’s milk, Chevre has a bright, white color and a soft, spreadable texture.
There are many varieties of Chevre cheese. Some are fresh and soft, like a creamy spread, while others are aged and firmer. Each kind has a unique taste that can add something special to your meals.
You can use Chevre in salads, as a topping for pizzas, or spread it on a piece of fresh bread.
It’s also great for making delightful cheese boards. Pair it with fruits like figs or grapes for a delicious combination.
This cheese is loved for its versatility. You can crumble it into dishes, bake it into tarts, or even use it to make savory cheesecakes. It adds a unique twist to any recipe.
For a gourmet touch, try drizzling a bit of honey over Chevre. The sweetness of the honey complements the tangy taste of the cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Find out more about Chevre and how to enjoy it in different ways by visiting The Kitchen Abroad. You can also explore great pairing options at Cheesyplace.
5) Ricotta
Ricotta is a fresh, soft cheese made from various types of milk such as sheep’s, cow’s, goat’s, or even Italian water buffalo’s milk. It has a creamy texture and is known for its mild and slightly sweet flavor.
Unlike many cheeses, ricotta is technically not a cheese but a creamy curd. It’s made by reheating the whey left over from other cheese-making processes. This makes it unique and different from cheeses that use curds.
Ricotta is versatile in cooking. You can use it in both sweet and savory dishes.
For example, it’s great in Italian dishes like lasagna and cannoli. It can also be enjoyed simply spread on toast.
Sometimes, you’ll find a variety called ricotta salata. It is pressed, salted, and dried, turning it into a crumbly cheese similar to feta or cotija.
Unlike fresh ricotta, ricotta salata is often used as a finishing cheese, adding a salty touch to dishes.
You can find different recipes and tips on using ricotta on The Spruce Eats. Whether you’re making a creamy pasta sauce or a delicious dessert, ricotta adds a delightful touch to your cooking.
6) Burrata
Burrata is a type of soft cheese that originated in the Puglia region of Southern Italy. Crafted from cow’s milk, it has a rich, creamy texture that sets it apart from other cheeses.
The outer shell of Burrata is made from mozzarella. When you cut into it, you’ll find a soft, gooey interior filled with a mixture of small curd and fresh cream, known as stracciatella.
Because of this creamy center, Burrata is perfect for spreading on bread or adding a luxurious touch to salads. It’s best enjoyed fresh and pairs wonderfully with tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
You can find Burrata in many Italian dishes, or simply enjoy it on its own. Its unique combination of textures makes it a cheese lover’s delight. For more details, visit Fine Dining Lovers.
7) Feta
Feta is a soft cheese that comes from Greece. It’s known for its crumbly texture and tangy taste.
Made primarily from sheep’s milk, sometimes it includes a mix of goat’s milk.
Greek feta is often described as briny and sharp. It’s perfect for crumbling over salads or adding to cold soups.
Its fine texture also makes it great for mixing in dishes like rigatoni or sandwiches.
Bulgarian feta is another popular type. It has a creamier texture but the saltiness can vary. Sometimes, you might notice a grassy or “sheepy” flavor mixed with a tangy finish.
Israeli feta is full-flavored and creamy. It’s usually less salty and most often made from sheep’s milk. It can add a rich flavor to many Mediterranean dishes.
American feta can be made from sheep, goat, or even cow’s milk. The flavor and texture of American feta can differ based on the milk used but generally, it’s milder compared to its Mediterranean counterparts.
Feta cheese is versatile and can be used in various dishes. It pairs well with vegetables, fruits, and bread.
You can enjoy it in stews, salads, pastries, or even on its own.
For more information, check out this guide to different types of feta.
8) Mozzarella
Mozzarella is a well-loved Italian cheese known for its mild flavor and versatile use.
Made from cow’s milk or water buffalo milk, its texture is firm yet elastic.
You can often find mozzarella in the fresh section of your grocery store, packed in water to keep it moist.
There are various types of mozzarella.
Fresh mozzarella is soft, creamy, and usually sold in balls. It’s great in salads, especially when paired with tomatoes and basil.
For a smoky twist, you might enjoy smoked mozzarella, which has a brown, edible rind and a distinct flavor.
Another interesting type is burrata. Burrata starts as mozzarella but is filled with a mixture of curd and cream. This gives it a gooey center that’s delicious with bread or as a pizza topping.
Mozzarella is also a pasta filata cheese, meaning cheesemakers stretch and knead the curds. This process gives mozzarella its unique texture and meltiness, making it perfect for melting on pizzas and in baked pasta dishes.
When you’re looking for a quick and tasty treat, you can’t go wrong with mozzarella sticks.
These are usually breaded and fried, making for a crunchy and cheesy snack.
Whether you prefer it fresh, smoked, or filled with cream, mozzarella offers a variety of delicious options.
9) Mascarpone
Mascarpone is a creamy, buttery Italian cheese. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a smooth texture.
You often find it in desserts like Tiramisu. Mascarpone adds richness to these sweets.
Besides desserts, you can use it as a topping for fruit. The cheese pairs well with berries and other fresh fruits.
In cooking, it can replace cream or butter. You can stir it into sauces or spread it on bread. Mascarpone’s versatility makes it a favorite in many kitchens.
For more details, you can explore Mascarpone Cheese. Learn about its uses and recipes to enjoy this delightful cheese at home.
10) Bleu d’Auvergne
Bleu d’Auvergne is a blue cheese that comes from the Auvergne region in France. It’s known for its creamy texture and distinctive blue veins, which give it a unique look. This cheese is made from cow’s milk and has been enjoyed for many years.
You will notice that Bleu d’Auvergne has a pale yellow or ivory color with blue dots. The cheese’s flavor is creamy, smooth, and moist, offering hints of grassy and herbaceous notes. As it ages, the flavor becomes stronger.
Bleu d’Auvergne is also known for its sharp, spicy taste. It pairs wonderfully with fruits, breads, and wines. If you love blue cheese but want something less pungent than some other types, this might be a great option for you.
The cheese is typically aged for at least four weeks, which is relatively short compared to other blue cheeses. This shorter aging time helps it retain its creamy consistency. To learn more about this cheese, you can visit KitchenTeller or Insanely Good Recipes.
11) Taleggio
Taleggio is a soft, smear-ripened cheese that comes from Northern Italy. Known for its square shape, this cheese has a thin, rosy rind and a creamy, straw-yellow interior.
You’ll notice a pungent, earthy aroma when you first encounter Taleggio. This unique scent comes from washing the cheese wheels with salt brine during the aging process.
Made from whole cow’s milk, Taleggio can be pasteurized or unpasteurized. However, pasteurized versions are more common.
You can enjoy Taleggio in various dishes, whether melted on pizza, stirred into risotto, or simply enjoyed on a cheese board. Its versatility makes it a favorite among cheese lovers.
If you’re curious, you can learn more about Taleggio’s history and production. To explore its traditional methods, visit Cheese Origin.
12) Quark
Quark is a soft, creamy cheese that has a texture similar to thick yogurt or cream cheese. It’s made from milk and sometimes combined with yogurt cultures. The mixture is fermented to give quark its unique, smooth consistency.
You might find quark cheese used in European dishes, but it’s becoming more popular in the United States as well. It’s great in both sweet and savory recipes.
Quark is a versatile ingredient. You can use it in desserts, dips, or even as a spread on your morning toast. It’s known for its mild flavor, which makes it an excellent base for various dishes.
Learn more about quark and its uses here.
13) Stracchino
Stracchino is a soft cheese from Italy. You might also know it as crescenza. This cheese comes from the Lombardy and Piedmont regions. Its name comes from the Italian word “stracca,” meaning tired. This is because the cheese is made from the milk of tired cows.
The texture of stracchino is soft and creamy. You will find it easy to spread on bread. The flavor is mild and delicate, making it perfect for various dishes. You can enjoy it on its own, spread on crackers, or melted into pasta dishes.
Stracchino is made using the milk of cows that have grazed in the alpine pastures. The cheese has a brief maturation period of 20-30 days. Because of this, it retains a fresh and creamy taste.
The cheese has a unique charm due to its traditional methods. Stracchino’s name reflects the pastoral life of the cows whose milk is used. You can explore its rich history and enjoy its smooth and pleasant taste in Italian cuisine.
14) Chaource
Chaource is a soft cheese that originates from the village of Chaource in the Champagne-Ardenne region of France. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. This cheese is known for its creamy and slightly crumbly texture.
You will find that Chaource has a mildly salty and fruity flavor, making it quite unique. The cheese typically ages between 2 and 4 weeks, developing a white, velvety rind that is edible. Its interior is soft and creamy, perfect for spreading on bread or crackers.
Chaource holds an Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status, meaning it meets specific production standards. This adds to its prestige and ensures its quality. When choosing milk for Chaource, the selection and quality are crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.
If you’re a fan of soft cheeses, you might notice that Chaource has similarities to Camembert. However, its taste and texture are distinct. You can enjoy Chaource both in its young form or when it has matured, which intensifies its flavors.
For more on Chaource, including its history and production process, check out this detailed guide and learn why this cheese is a crown jewel in the world of soft cheeses.
15) Neufchâtel
Neufchâtel is a soft cheese that comes from the Normandy region of France. It’s known for its creamy, yet slightly crumbly texture. Unlike some other soft cheeses, Neufchâtel often comes in a heart shape, adding a romantic touch to your cheese platter.
Made from cow’s milk, Neufchâtel has a tangy flavor that sets it apart. It’s similar to cream cheese but with a richer taste. This cheese has been around since the 6th century, making it one of France’s oldest cheeses.
You can use Neufchâtel in many ways. Spread it on bread, incorporate it into your baking, or serve it with fruits and nuts. Its delicate, nutty flavor with a hint of mushroom adds a unique twist to your dishes.
If you’re interested in trying Neufchâtel, you can learn more about its different varieties and uses here. You’ll find lots of ideas to enjoy this delightful cheese.
16) Rocamadour
Rocamadour is a delightful soft cheese from France. It comes from the region near the town of Rocamadour in southwestern France. This cheese has a rich history and has been made for centuries.
Rocamadour cheese is made from goat’s milk. It has a creamy texture and a tangy, slightly nutty flavor. The cheese is small in size but packed with taste.
The cheese is covered with a soft white mold. This gives it a distinctive look and adds to the flavor.
There are different varieties of Rocamadour cheese. Some are fresher and milder, while others are aged and have a stronger taste.
If you love cheese, you must try Rocamadour. It pairs well with bread, fruits, and wine.
To learn more about Rocamadour, check out resources that dive deeper into its origin and taste. Happy cheese tasting!
17) Mont d’Or
Mont d’Or is a delightful soft cheese that’s sure to impress. This cheese comes from the border regions of France and Switzerland.
It’s made from cow’s milk and is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor.
When you taste Mont d’Or, you’ll notice it’s very soft and easy to spread. It’s perfect for dipping bread or crackers.
You can also bake it for a warm, gooey treat.
Mont d’Or has a unique history. The first mentions of it date back to 1280. It has been enjoyed by many for centuries, including royalty!
Today, it’s still made traditionally using raw cow’s milk.
This cheese is often called Vacherin du Haut-Doubs in France. It’s a seasonal cheese, usually made in the colder months.
The production and maturation of Mont d’Or are carefully regulated. This helps maintain its high quality.
You can find Mont d’Or in local shops, especially in Switzerland and France. It’s also sometimes available in gourmet stores elsewhere.
If you ever get a chance to try this cheese, don’t miss it. For more details, visit this page.
18) Anari
Anari is a soft cheese that comes from the beautiful island of Cyprus. This cheese is made from either goat’s or sheep’s milk.
It’s a fresh, whey cheese similar to ricotta.
Anari has a creamy texture that pairs well with many dishes. You can enjoy it on its own or as an ingredient in both sweet and savory recipes.
One of the great things about Anari is its mild, slightly sweet taste. This makes it a versatile option for breakfasts, salads, and desserts.
In Cyprus, Anari is often overshadowed by its cousin, halloumi. However, it has gained recognition recently. Anari even won a silver medal at the 2005 World Cheese Awards in the UK.
You can find Anari either fresh or dried. Fresh Anari has a soft, crumbly texture, while the dried version is firmer and can be grated.
If you want to know more about Anari, check out Anari cheese for more details.
19) Chevrotin
Chevrotin is a delightful semi-soft cheese made from raw goat’s milk. It hails from the Savoie region in the French Alps.
This cheese is known for its creamy texture and distinctive flavor that stands out among other goat cheeses.
This cheese comes in a flattened cylindrical shape, usually about 9-12 cm in diameter, and weighs between 250-350 grams. The rind is soft and reddish-brown, similar to the Munster cheese but thinner.
Chevrotin undergoes an aging process of at least three weeks. During this time, it develops rich, nuanced flavors.
It pairs wonderfully with fruits like figs and pears, making it a fantastic addition to a cheese board.
For an extra treat, try using Chevrotin in salads or as a topping for pizza or pasta.
Its creamy, tangy taste can elevate many dishes, adding both flavor and texture.
You can also enjoy Chevrotin with a glass of wine. It pairs well with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir, enhancing the cheese’s complex flavors and aromas. For more about Chevrotin, check out this profile.
20) Brocciu
Brocciu is a soft cheese from Corsica, a French island in the Mediterranean.
This cheese is made from the whey of ewe or goat milk, making it a dairy product with roots in local traditions.
What sets Brocciu apart is its unique texture and flavor. It’s fresh and slightly tangy, offering a delightful taste.
Unlike many cheeses, Brocciu is often compared to Ricotta because they both come from whey. Yet, Brocciu has its own distinct character, reflecting the rich heritage of Corsican cuisine.
You can enjoy Brocciu in many ways. It’s delicious on its own, added to salads, or paired with honey.
It’s also a common ingredient in Corsican dishes, adding creaminess and depth.
Brocciu is special not just for its taste but also for its versatility. Whether you use it in sweet or savory dishes, it brings a unique touch to the meal. If you’re looking to try something new and authentic, consider giving Brocciu a taste. Learn more about this curious cheese at Cheese.com.
21) Gorgonzola
Gorgonzola is a famous blue cheese from Italy. It’s known for its unique flavor and distinct blue veins running through it. There are two main types: Dolce and Piccante.
Gorgonzola Dolce is sweet and creamy with a soft texture. It’s aged for about two months, giving it a mild and buttery taste. You might enjoy spreading it on bread or crackers.
On the other hand, Gorgonzola Piccante is sharper and more intense. This version is aged longer, making it firmer and crankier.
It’s perfect for adding a bold flavor to salads or pasta dishes.
Despite its strong aroma, Gorgonzola has a balanced taste that combines tangy and rich buttery flavors.
You can find more about its types on The Spruce Eats.
Whether you prefer the mild and creamy Dolce or the sharp and robust Piccante, Gorgonzola offers a unique taste experience. Try incorporating it into your favorite recipes for an added burst of flavor.
22) Boursin
Boursin cheese is a delightful addition to any cheese platter. It is known for its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Originating from France, Boursin was created in 1957 by François Boursin, a cheese maker from Normandy.
This cheese is soft and spreadable, making it perfect for crackers and bread. The most famous flavor is Garlic and Fine Herbs, but Boursin comes in other varieties too.
Each one blends different herbs and spices to create unique taste experiences.
Boursin has a slightly crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. It’s made from pasteurized cow’s milk and is often compared to cream cheese because of its consistency.
This versatility means you can use it in many dishes, from dips to gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
You can find Boursin wrapped in foil, which helps keep it fresh.
It’s a popular choice among cheese lovers because it pairs well with wines and adds a touch of luxury to meals. For more on Boursin and its flavors, visit Boursin Cheese.
23) Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is a soft, mild-tasting cheese made from milk and cream. Its smooth texture makes it perfect for spreading on bagels or toast.
You can find cream cheese in various flavors, including plain, herbed, and fruity. This versatility allows you to experiment with different tastes in your dishes.
It’s also a key ingredient in many recipes, like cheesecakes, dips, and frosting.
The creamy consistency helps blend ingredients smoothly, enhancing the overall texture.
When storing cream cheese, keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness. Be sure to use it within a week or two after opening.
Cream cheese is popular in both sweet and savory dishes.
For example, you can spread it on a sandwich or mix it into a dessert.
If you want to explore more about different types of soft cheese, check out this comprehensive list.
24) Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is soft, creamy, and made from curds. It starts with milk proteins turned into curds and separated from the whey.
Cottage cheese curds are washed to remove acid, giving it a mild flavor. It’s available in different fat contents like nonfat, low-fat, and full-fat.
It’s a popular choice for its healthy protein content. Many people enjoy it as a snack or add it to various recipes.
Find out more about cottage cheese at The New York Times guide.
25) Queso
Queso is a popular cheese used in Mexican cuisine. This cheese comes in various forms, and each type brings its unique flavor and texture to dishes.
Queso fresco, meaning “fresh cheese,” is one of the most common types. It has a mild, slightly tangy taste and a soft texture. You can crumble it over dishes like tacos and enchiladas.
Another common type is queso asadero. This cheese is creamy and smooth, making it perfect for melting.
It’s often used in quesadillas, pizza, and queso fundido. Its excellent melting properties make it ideal for cheese-topped baked dishes.
Queso añejo is an aged version of queso fresco. It has a more intense flavor and a firmer texture.
It’s often used grated over dishes for an added punch.
For a versatile, easy-to-melt option, many people enjoy queso quesadilla. As the name suggests, this cheese is great for making quesadillas, but it also works well in other melted cheese dishes.
Exploring these different types of queso can bring new flavors and textures to your meals.
Whether you prefer the fresh taste of queso fresco or the creamy melt of queso asadero, there’s a type for every cheese lover.
Learn more about Mexican cheeses here and explore more types you’ll love in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section answers common questions about popular, creamy types of soft cheeses, distinguished varieties, brands, and uses in dishes like cheesecake.
Which soft cheeses are considered especially creamy?
Some of the most creamy soft cheeses include Brie and Burrata. These cheeses are loved for their rich and smooth textures which make them ideal for spreading on bread or crackers.
Could you list some well-known soft cheese brands?
Brands like Président and BelGioioso are popular for their Brie and Burrata, respectively. Locatelli is known for its exceptional Ricotta. These brands are famous for maintaining high-quality standards.
What distinguishes super soft cheeses from other types?
Super soft cheeses, like Camembert, are unique because they have a higher moisture content and require less aging. Their textures are often velvety and easily spreadable, unlike firmer cheeses.
What are some soft white cheeses that aren’t brie?
In addition to Brie, soft white cheeses include Camembert and Neufchâtel. These cheeses share a similar texture but offer different flavor profiles and are great for various culinary uses.
Are soft cheese and cream cheese the same?
Soft cheese and cream cheese are not the same. Cream cheese is a specific type of soft cheese known for its mild flavor and smooth texture, often used in spreads and baking.
Which soft cheese is best for cheesecake?
For cheesecakes, cream cheese is the top choice due to its smooth consistency and mild flavor. It’s perfect for creating that classic, rich cheesecake texture.
