Burrata Cheese vs Cream Cheese
Burrata Cheese
Cream Cheese
Burrata Cheese is a soft, creamy buffalo-milk cheese from Italy, while Cream Cheese is fresh soft, processed and made from cow milk, originating in United States.
What Is Burrata Cheese?
Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese, similar to mozzarella but with a creamy interior that oozes out when cut open. Made from cow's milk, the outer shell is solid mozzarella while the inside contains both mozzarella and cream, giving it an extraordinarily rich, buttery flavor and soft texture.
What Is Cream Cheese?
Cream cheese is a fresh, soft cheese made primarily from cow's milk. It is typically pasteurized and has a smooth, spreadable texture. The flavor profile is creamy, mild, and slightly sweet, making it a versatile addition to both savory and sweet dishes. It is white in color and lacks a rind, which contributes to its smooth and appealing appearance. Commonly used as a spread on bagels or as a base for cheesecakes and dips, cream cheese is a staple in many kitchens. Its fresh and pleasant aroma enhances its appeal for a variety of culinary applications. Additionally, flavored versions, such as fruit cream cheese, are also popular.
What's the Difference Between Burrata Cheese and Cream Cheese?
- Origin: Burrata Cheese (Italy), Cream Cheese (United States)
- Milk type: Burrata Cheese (water buffalo's milk), Cream Cheese (cow's milk)
- Texture: Burrata Cheese (Soft, creamy), Cream Cheese (fresh soft, processed)
- Rind: Burrata Cheese (Thin), Cream Cheese (rindless)
- Taste: Burrata Cheese (Mild, lactic), Cream Cheese (creamy, mild, sweet)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Burrata Cheese | Cream Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | United States |
| Specific Origin | Andria, Apulia | — |
| Milk Type | Water buffalo's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | Pasteurized or unpasteurized |
| Texture | Soft, creamy | Fresh soft, processed |
| Rind | Thin | Rindless |
| Aging | Within 48 hours | — |
| Taste | Mild, lactic | Creamy, mild, sweet |
Pairing Comparison
What works with each cheese — wines, foods, breads, and more.
| Burrata Cheese | Cream Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | — | Ginger, Salmon, Seaweed, Shrimp |
| Other Good Pairings | — | Cod, Green Tea |
Which would you pick?
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Where to buy Burrata Cheese and Cream Cheese
Burrata Cheese
Cream Cheese
Taste Comparison: Does Burrata Cheese Taste Like Cream Cheese?
Burrata Cheese reads as mild, lactic, while Cream Cheese brings creamy, mild, sweet character.
Can You Substitute Burrata Cheese for Cream Cheese?
Burrata Cheese can stand in for Cream Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect soft, creamy bite and body where the recipe calls for fresh soft, processed. Flavor-wise, Burrata Cheese reads as mild, lactic while Cream Cheese brings creamy, mild, sweet notes.
Which Is Better, Burrata Cheese or Cream Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a soft, creamy cheese, go with Burrata Cheese. For a fresh soft, processed profile, Cream Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Burrata Cheese suits recipes that want mild, lactic notes, while Cream Cheese fits dishes calling for creamy, mild, sweet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Burrata Cheese the same as Cream Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Burrata Cheese originates in Italy, while Cream Cheese comes from United States. Burrata Cheese is made from buffalo milk; Cream Cheese uses cow.
Is Burrata Cheese similar to Cream Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Burrata Cheese for Cream Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Burrata Cheese taste like Cream Cheese?
Burrata Cheese reads as mild, lactic, while Cream Cheese is creamy, mild, sweet.
What is Burrata Cheese made of?
Burrata Cheese is made from buffalo milk (pasteurized or unpasteurized). It's typically aged within 48 hours. It originates in Italy.
What is Cream Cheese made of?
Cream Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized or unpasteurized). It originates in United States.
Which should I choose, Burrata Cheese or Cream Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Burrata Cheese is soft, creamy, while Cream Cheese is fresh soft, processed.
See full profiles: Burrata Cheese and Cream Cheese.