Cheddar Cheese vs Ricotta Cheese

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

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

Ricotta Cheese Overview

Ricotta is a soft Italian cheese made from the whey left over from the production of other cheeses, primarily sheep, cow, goat, or buffalo milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, sweet flavor, making it versatile for both savory dishes, like lasagna and ravioli, and sweet dishes, such as cheesecakes and cannoli.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Ranking

Cheddar is ranked #1 out of 377 types.

Ricotta is ranked #21 out of 377 types.

Country of Origin

Cheddar Cheese comes from United Kingdom. Ricotta Cheese originated from Italy.

Milk Type and Treatment

Cheddar Cheese is made with cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo milk that is typically raw, pasteurized, or thermized. Ricotta Cheese is made with cow, sheep, or buffalo milk that is typically unknown.

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)". Ricotta Cheese has a fat content of varies and a moisture content of up to 39%. Ricotta's texture can be described as "soft, moist".

Flavor and Aroma

Cheddar Cheese has a mild to sharp, buttery to brothy and savory flavor. Cheddar's aroma can be described as "varies". Ricotta Cheese has a sweet, slightly creamy flavor. Ricotta's aroma can be described as "mild".

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 . Ricotta Cheese has a color of white , comes in grainy soft mass and has an aging period of fresh .

Rind and Rennet Type

Cheddar Cheese's rind is described as varies (natural, cloth, wax, plastic) . Ricotta Cheese's rind is described as none , with animal or microbial rennet.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Compare Cheddar Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Ricotta Cheese to Other Cheeses