Comté Cheese vs Cream Cheese

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

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

Comté Cheese Overview

Comté is a French cheese made from cow's milk in the Jura region of France. It is one of the most popular AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) cheeses, known for its complex flavors which can include hints of apricot, chocolate, butter, cream, hazelnuts, and toast. Comté is aged for a minimum of four months, with some wheels maturing for over a year to develop a deeper flavor profile.

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

Comté Cheese comes from France. Cream Cheese originated from United States.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Comté Cheese has a PDO (1996), AOC (1958). Cream Cheese is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Comté Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Cream Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Comté's texture can be described as "smooth; semi-hard". Cream Cheese's texture can be described as "fresh soft, processed".

Taste and Aroma

Comté Cheese has a nutty, creamy, sweet to meaty, roasted taste. Cream Cheese has a creamy, mild, sweet taste. Cream Cheese's aroma can be described as "fresh, pleasant".

Appearance and Aging

Comté Cheese's appearance is colored pale yellow , is available in wide, flat wheels and is aged 4 months to 3 years . Cream Cheese has a color of white .

Rind and Rennet Type

Comté Cheese's rind is described as natural . Cream Cheese's rind is described as rindless .

Ranking

Comté is ranked #73 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 Comté and Cream Cheese pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a smooth; semi-hard cheese, go for Comté. But if you enjoy a fresh soft, processed consistency, Cream Cheese might be the better pick. Comté has a nutty, creamy, sweet to meaty, roasted taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Cream Cheese offers a creamy, mild, sweet profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Comté Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Cream Cheese to Other Cheeses