Cream Cheese vs Halloumi Cheese

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

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

Halloumi Cheese Overview

Halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened brined cheese from Cyprus, made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk, and sometimes also cow’s milk. Renowned for its high melting point, Halloumi can be grilled or fried to a crispy exterior with a soft, chewy interior. It has a salty flavor and is often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Cream Cheese comes from United States. Halloumi Cheese originated from Cyprus.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Cream Cheese is not a protected cheese. Halloumi Cheese has a PDO (2014).

Milk Type and Treatment

Cream Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Halloumi Cheese is made with cow, goat, and sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Cream Cheese's texture can be described as "fresh soft, processed". Halloumi's texture can be described as "semihard".

Taste and Aroma

Cream Cheese has a creamy, mild, sweet taste. Cream Cheese's aroma can be described as "fresh, pleasant". Halloumi Cheese has a mild, salty taste. Halloumi's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Cream Cheese's appearance is colored white . Halloumi Cheese has a color of white to light yellow and has an aging period of 40 days .

Rind and Rennet Type

Cream Cheese's rind is described as rindless . Halloumi Cheese's rind is described as no rind , with animal rennet.

Ranking

Cream Cheese is ranked #190 out of 996 types based on community views. Halloumi is ranked #94 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Cream Cheese and Halloumi 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 semihard consistency, Halloumi might be the better pick. Cream Cheese has a creamy, mild, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Halloumi offers a mild, salty profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Cream Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Halloumi Cheese to Other Cheeses