Cream Cheese vs Gruyère Cheese

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

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

Gruyère Cheese Overview

Gruyère is a famous Swiss hard cheese, known for its rich, creamy, slightly nutty flavor. It is typically aged for six months or more and has a dense, slightly grainy texture. Gruyère is a staple in fondue and is also used in French onion soup, croque-monsieur, and various baked dishes.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Cream Cheese comes from United States. Gruyère Cheese originated from Switzerland.

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. Gruyère Cheese has a AOP (2007), PGI (2007), GI (2011).

Milk Type and Treatment

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

Composition and Texture

Cream Cheese's texture can be described as "fresh soft, processed". Gruyère Cheese has a fat content of around 32-35% fat in dry matter, which translates to about 45-50% overall fat content. and a moisture content of none. Gruyère's texture can be described as "dense, moister".

Taste and Aroma

Cream Cheese has a creamy, mild, sweet taste. Cream Cheese's aroma can be described as "fresh, pleasant". Gruyère Cheese has a nutty, complex taste. Gruyère's aroma can be described as "earthy, fruity, possibly barnyardy".

Appearance and Aging

Cream Cheese's appearance is colored white . Gruyère Cheese has a color of varies , comes in cylindrical and has an aging period of 5 months to 24+ .

Rind and Rennet Type

Cream Cheese's rind is described as rindless . Gruyère Cheese's rind is described as natural, orangy , with animal rennet.

Ranking

Cream Cheese is ranked #182 out of 996 types based on community views. Gruyère is ranked #33 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

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

Compare Cream Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Gruyère Cheese to Other Cheeses