Camembert Cheese vs Figue Cheese
Camembert Cheese is a soft, artisan cow-milk cheese from France, while Figue Cheese is soft, artisan and made from goat milk, originating in France.
What Is Camembert Cheese?
Camembert is a moist, soft, surface-ripened cow's milk cheese from Normandy, first made in the late 18th century. Penicillium camemberti gives it a white bloomy rind and a creamy interior, with a taste stronger and slightly more sour than brie.
What Is Figue Cheese?
Figue is a soft, artisan cheese made from unpasteurized goat's milk in the Provence region of France. It has a creamy white color and a natural rind. Known for its full-flavored and sour taste, Figue offers a rich experience for those who enjoy goat's milk cheeses. Its aromatic, milky scent enhances its appeal, making it a favorite among cheese enthusiasts. The cheese is often shaped like a small fig, which is reflected in its name. Enjoy it on a cheese board or paired with fresh bread and a glass of wine to appreciate its flavorful profile.
What's the Difference Between Camembert Cheese and Figue Cheese?
- Milk type: Camembert Cheese (cow's milk), Figue Cheese (goat's milk)
- Milk treatment: Camembert Cheese (unpasteurized for AOC Camembert de Normandie, pasteurized for most other versions), Figue Cheese (unpasteurized)
- Rind: Camembert Cheese (Bloomy), Figue Cheese (natural)
- Taste: Camembert Cheese (slightly sour, stronger than brie), Figue Cheese (full-flavored, sour)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Camembert Cheese | Figue Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | France |
| Specific Origin | Camembert, Normandy, Northwest France | Provence |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Goat's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized for AOC Camembert de Normandie, pasteurized for most other versions | Unpasteurized |
| Texture | Soft, artisan | Soft, artisan |
| Rind | Bloomy | Natural |
| Aging | Minimum 3 weeks | — |
| Taste | Slightly sour, stronger than brie | Full-flavored, sour |
Taste Comparison: Does Camembert Cheese Taste Like Figue Cheese?
Camembert Cheese reads as slightly sour, stronger than brie, while Figue Cheese brings full-flavored, sour character. On the nose, Camembert Cheese offers buttery, rich, contrasted with Figue Cheese's aromatic, milky.
Can You Substitute Camembert Cheese for Figue Cheese?
Camembert Cheese can stand in for Figue Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Flavor-wise, Camembert Cheese reads as slightly sour, stronger than brie while Figue Cheese brings full-flavored, sour notes.
Which Is Better, Camembert Cheese or Figue Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. Flavor-wise, Camembert Cheese suits recipes that want slightly sour, stronger than brie notes, while Figue Cheese fits dishes calling for full-flavored, sour.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Camembert Cheese the same as Figue Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Camembert Cheese is made from cow milk; Figue Cheese uses goat.
Is Camembert Cheese similar to Figue Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Camembert Cheese for Figue Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Camembert Cheese taste like Figue Cheese?
Camembert Cheese reads as slightly sour, stronger than brie, while Figue Cheese is full-flavored, sour. Aromas also diverge. Camembert Cheese leans buttery, rich, and Figue Cheese is closer to aromatic, milky.
What is Camembert Cheese made of?
Camembert Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized for aoc camembert de normandie, pasteurized for most other versions). It's typically aged minimum 3 weeks. It originates in France.
What is Figue Cheese made of?
Figue Cheese is made from goat milk (unpasteurized). It originates in France.
Which should I choose, Camembert Cheese or Figue Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.