Camembert Cheese vs Five Counties Cheese

Camembert Cheese is a soft, artisan cow-milk cheese from France, while Five Counties Cheese is semi-firm and made from cow milk, originating in England.

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 Five Counties Cheese?

Five Counties cheese, originating from Somerset, England, is a semi-firm cheese made from cow's milk. It is known for its layered appearance, featuring five different types of English cheeses stacked together. The flavor is buttery and mild, with a touch of saltiness, making it a pleasant choice for those who enjoy a balanced taste. Its aroma is subtle, adding to its approachable nature. This cheese is also referred to as Five Territories, Five Shires, or Saxonshire. It is often enjoyed on cheese boards or paired with crackers and fruits for a simple yet satisfying snack.

What's the Difference Between Camembert Cheese and Five Counties Cheese?

• Origin: Camembert Cheese (France), Five Counties Cheese (England)
• Texture: Camembert Cheese (soft, artisan), Five Counties Cheese (semi-firm)
• Taste: Camembert Cheese (slightly sour, stronger than brie), Five Counties Cheese (buttery, mild, salty)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does Camembert Cheese Taste Like Five Counties Cheese?

Camembert Cheese reads as slightly sour, stronger than brie, while Five Counties Cheese brings buttery, mild, salty character. On the nose, Camembert Cheese offers buttery, rich, contrasted with Five Counties Cheese's mild.

Can You Substitute Camembert Cheese for Five Counties Cheese?

In most recipes, Camembert Cheese and Five Counties Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect soft, artisan bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-firm. Flavor-wise, Camembert Cheese reads as slightly sour, stronger than brie while Five Counties Cheese brings buttery, mild, salty notes.

Which Is Better, Camembert Cheese or Five Counties Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a soft, artisan cheese, go with Camembert Cheese. For a semi-firm profile, Five Counties Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Camembert Cheese suits recipes that want slightly sour, stronger than brie notes, while Five Counties Cheese fits dishes calling for buttery, mild, salty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Camembert Cheese the same as Five Counties Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Camembert Cheese originates in France, while Five Counties Cheese comes from England.

Is Camembert Cheese similar to Five Counties Cheese?

Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.

Can I substitute Camembert Cheese for Five Counties Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.

Does Camembert Cheese taste like Five Counties Cheese?

Camembert Cheese reads as slightly sour, stronger than brie, while Five Counties Cheese is buttery, mild, salty. Aromas also diverge. Camembert Cheese leans buttery, rich, and Five Counties Cheese is closer to mild.

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 Five Counties Cheese made of?

Five Counties Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in England.

Which should I choose, Camembert Cheese or Five Counties Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Camembert Cheese is soft, artisan, while Five Counties Cheese is semi-firm.