Camembert Cheese vs Camembert Calvados Cheese

Camembert Cheese is a soft, artisan cow-milk cheese from France, while Camembert Calvados Cheese is soft, semi-soft and made from cow milk, originating in France.

What Is Camembert Cheese?

Camembert is a moist, soft, surface-ripened cow's milk cheese from Normandy, first made in the late 18th century. Penicillium camemberti gives it a white bloomy rind and a creamy interior, with a taste stronger and slightly more sour than brie.

What Is Camembert Calvados Cheese?

Camembert Calvados is a French cheese made from unpasteurized cow's milk. This soft to semi-soft cheese is known for its savory taste and aromatic, fruity aroma. It has a smooth, creamy texture that makes it easy to spread. The cheese is yellow in color, adding to its visual appeal. Typically enjoyed on a cheese board, it pairs well with crusty bread and a glass of cider or light wine. Its flavor profile is rich and satisfying, making it a favorite among cheese enthusiasts.

What's the Difference Between Camembert Cheese and Camembert Calvados Cheese?

• Milk treatment: Camembert Cheese (unpasteurized for AOC Camembert de Normandie, pasteurized for most other versions), Camembert Calvados Cheese (unpasteurized)
• Texture: Camembert Cheese (soft, artisan), Camembert Calvados Cheese (soft, semi-soft)
• Taste: Camembert Cheese (slightly sour, stronger than brie), Camembert Calvados Cheese (savory)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does Camembert Cheese Taste Like Camembert Calvados Cheese?

Camembert Cheese reads as slightly sour, stronger than brie, while Camembert Calvados Cheese brings savory character. On the nose, Camembert Cheese offers buttery, rich, contrasted with Camembert Calvados Cheese's aromatic, fruity.

Can You Substitute Camembert Cheese for Camembert Calvados Cheese?

In most recipes, Camembert Cheese and Camembert Calvados Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect soft, artisan bite and body where the recipe calls for soft, semi-soft. Flavor-wise, Camembert Cheese reads as slightly sour, stronger than brie while Camembert Calvados Cheese brings savory notes.

Which Is Better, Camembert Cheese or Camembert Calvados Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a soft, artisan cheese, go with Camembert Cheese. For a soft, semi-soft profile, Camembert Calvados Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Camembert Cheese suits recipes that want slightly sour, stronger than brie notes, while Camembert Calvados Cheese fits dishes calling for savory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Camembert Cheese the same as Camembert Calvados Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses.

Is Camembert Cheese similar to Camembert Calvados Cheese?

Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.

Can I substitute Camembert Cheese for Camembert Calvados Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.

Does Camembert Cheese taste like Camembert Calvados Cheese?

Camembert Cheese reads as slightly sour, stronger than brie, while Camembert Calvados Cheese is savory. Aromas also diverge. Camembert Cheese leans buttery, rich, and Camembert Calvados Cheese is closer to aromatic, fruity.

What is Camembert Cheese made of?

Camembert Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized for aoc camembert de normandie, pasteurized for most other versions). It's typically aged minimum 3 weeks. It originates in France.

What is Camembert Calvados Cheese made of?

Camembert Calvados Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized). It originates in France.

Which should I choose, Camembert Cheese or Camembert Calvados Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Camembert Cheese is soft, artisan, while Camembert Calvados Cheese is soft, semi-soft.