Emmental Cheese vs Mascarpone Cheese

In this article, we’ll explore the answers to the most common questions about Emmental Cheese and Mascarpone Cheese, including:

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

Emmental Cheese Overview

Emmental is a classic Swiss cheese, known for its large holes and nutty, mild flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a hard, dense texture. The holes, or "eyes," develop during the fermentation process as a result of gas released by the bacteria in the cheese. Emmental is often used in sandwiches and is a key ingredient in traditional Swiss fondue.

Mascarpone Cheese Overview

Mascarpone is a creamy, soft Italian cheese made from cream, coagulated by the addition of citric acid or acetic acid. It has a very rich, buttery texture and a slightly sweet taste. Mascarpone is a key ingredient in desserts like tiramisu and can also be used in dips, spreads, and sauces.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Ranking

Emmental is ranked #32 out of 376 types.

Mascarpone is ranked #53 out of 376 types.

Country of Origin

Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Mascarpone 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. Emmental Cheese has a PDO (2004). Mascarpone is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Mascarpone Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically heated.

Composition and Texture

Emmental Cheese has a fat content of minimum of 45% (dry matter). Emmental's texture can be described as "hard or medium-hard". Mascarpone Cheese has a fat content of 60 to 75 percent. Mascarpone's texture can be described as "soft, spreadable".

Flavor and Aroma

Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet flavor. Mascarpone Cheese has a buttery to slightly tangy flavor.

Appearance and Aging

Emmental Cheese's appearance is colored yellow , is available in round loaves and is aged 4 months to over 1 year . Mascarpone Cheese has a color of white .

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Emmental Cheese Mascarpone Cheese
Country of Origin Switzerland Italy
Specific Origin Emmental, Canton of Bern Lombardy
Certification PDO (2004) None
Milk Type Raw Cow's Milk Cow's milk
Milk Treatment Raw Heated
Fat Content Minimum of 45% (dry matter) 60 to 75 percent
Texture Hard or medium-hard Soft, spreadable
Flavor Nutty, sweet Buttery to slightly tangy
Colors Yellow White
Forms Round loaves
Age 4 months to over 1 year

Compare Emmental Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Mascarpone Cheese to Other Cheeses