Cheddar Cheese vs Cream Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Cheddar Cheese and Cream Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Cheddar Cheese and Cream Cheese?"
• "Is Cheddar Cheese and Cream Cheese the same?"
• "How does Cheddar Cheese compare to Cream Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Cheddar Cheese compare to Cream Cheese?"
• "Is Cheddar Cheese or Cream Cheese better?"

Cheddar Cheese Overview

Cheddar cheese, perhaps the most famous cheese from England, originated in the village of Cheddar in Somerset. It ranges from mild to extra sharp, with aging times that can extend several years. Cheddar has a firm texture and a deep, nutty flavor that becomes increasingly complex as it matures.

Cream Cheese Overview

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.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Cheddar Cheese comes from England. Cream Cheese originated from United States.

Milk Type and Treatment

Cheddar Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw, pasteurized, or thermized. Cream Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Cheddar Cheese has a fat content of at least 50% fat in dry matter and a moisture content of up to 39%. Cheddar's texture can be described as "varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline)". Cream Cheese's texture can be described as "fresh soft, processed".

Taste and Aroma

Cheddar Cheese has a mild to sharp, buttery to brothy and savory taste. Cheddar's aroma can be described as "varies". Cream Cheese has a creamy, mild, sweet taste. Cream Cheese's aroma can be described as "fresh, pleasant".

Appearance and Aging

Cheddar Cheese's appearance is colored natural or dyed orange , is available in tiny truckles to 650-pound blocks and is aged a few months to several years . Cream Cheese has a color of white .

Rind and Rennet Type

Cheddar Cheese's rind is described as varies (natural, cloth, wax, plastic) . Cream Cheese's rind is described as rindless .

Ranking

Cheddar is ranked #1 out of 996 types based on community views. Cream Cheese is ranked #190 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Cheddar and Cream Cheese pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) cheese, go for Cheddar. But if you enjoy a fresh soft, processed consistency, Cream Cheese might be the better pick. Cheddar has a mild to sharp, buttery to brothy and savory taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Cream Cheese offers a creamy, mild, sweet profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Cheddar Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Cream Cheese to Other Cheeses