Cream Cheese vs Gruyere Cheese

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

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

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.

Gruyere Cheese Overview

American Gruyere is inspired by the classic Swiss cheese but made in the United States. It replicates the sweet, slightly nutty flavor of traditional Gruyere. This version is typically smoother and creamier, with fewer age-induced cracks and holes. It is commonly used in cooking, especially in fondues, gratins, and baked dishes.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Cream Cheese comes from United States. Gruyere Cheese originated from United States.

Milk Type and Treatment

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

Composition and Texture

Cream Cheese's texture can be described as "fresh soft, processed". Gruyere Cheese has a fat content of ~30-34% and a moisture content of none. Gruyere's texture can be described as "semi-firm".

Taste and Aroma

Cream Cheese has a creamy, mild, sweet taste. Cream Cheese's aroma can be described as "fresh, pleasant". Gruyere Cheese has a mild, nutty, slightly buttery taste. Gruyere's aroma can be described as "mild, slightly nutty, buttery".

Appearance and Aging

Cream Cheese's appearance is colored white . Gruyere Cheese has a color of pale yellow to golden , comes in block, wheel, sliced, shredded and has an aging period of typically 3-6 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Cream Cheese's rind is described as rindless . Gruyere Cheese's rind is described as natural or brushed, sometimes waxed , with microbial or vegetarian (varies by producer) rennet.

Ranking

Cream Cheese is ranked #190 out of 996 types based on community views. Gruyere is ranked #43 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

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

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a fresh soft, processed cheese, go for Cream Cheese. But if you enjoy a semi-firm consistency, Gruyere might be the better pick. Cream Cheese has a creamy, mild, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Gruyere offers a mild, nutty, slightly buttery profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Cream Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Gruyere Cheese to Other Cheeses