Cream Cheese vs Taleggio Cheese

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

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

Taleggio Cheese Overview

Taleggio is a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese from the Lombardy region of Italy. It has a strong aroma but a surprisingly mild, fruity, and slightly tangy flavor with a creamy texture that becomes more pronounced as the cheese ages. Taleggio is excellent for melting and is often used in risottos or on polenta.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Cream Cheese comes from United States. Taleggio Cheese originated from Italy.

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. Taleggio Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

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

Composition and Texture

Cream Cheese's texture can be described as "fresh soft, processed". Taleggio's texture can be described as "soft, slightly melting under the rind, firmer towards the center".

Taste and Aroma

Cream Cheese has a creamy, mild, sweet taste. Cream Cheese's aroma can be described as "fresh, pleasant". Taleggio Cheese has a sweet, delicate, slightly sour taste. Taleggio's aroma can be described as "herbaceous, aromatic".

Appearance and Aging

Cream Cheese's appearance is colored white . Taleggio Cheese has a color of pinkish-red rind, white to straw yellow inside , comes in square, 7–8 inches wide, 1.5–3 inches high, 3.7–4.8 pounds weight and has an aging period of at least 35 (up to 50) days .

Rind and Rennet Type

Cream Cheese's rind is described as rindless . Taleggio Cheese's rind is described as soft, thin, pinkish-red , with calf rennet.

Ranking

Cream Cheese is ranked #192 out of 996 types based on community views. Taleggio is ranked #27 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Cream Cheese and Taleggio 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 soft, slightly melting under the rind, firmer towards the center consistency, Taleggio might be the better pick. Cream Cheese has a creamy, mild, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Taleggio offers a sweet, delicate, slightly sour profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Cream Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Taleggio Cheese to Other Cheeses