Camembert Cheese vs Sheep's Milk Cheese
Camembert Cheese is a soft, artisan cow-milk cheese from France, while Sheep's Milk Cheese is a sheep-milk cheese.
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 Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Sheep's milk cheese is cheese made from ewe's milk, one of the three main milks used for cheese alongside cow and goat. Because sheep milk is high in fat, these cheeses are known for a concentrated, full-bodied taste.
What's the Difference Between Camembert Cheese and Sheep's Milk Cheese?
- Milk type: Camembert Cheese (cow's milk), Sheep's Milk Cheese (sheep)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Camembert Cheese | Sheep's Milk Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | — |
| Specific Origin | Camembert, Normandy, Northwest France | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Sheep |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized for AOC Camembert de Normandie, pasteurized for most other versions | — |
| Texture | Soft, artisan | — |
| Rind | Bloomy | — |
| Aging | Minimum 3 weeks | — |
| Taste | Slightly sour, stronger than brie | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Camembert Cheese Taste Like Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Camembert Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Camembert Cheese can stand in for Sheep's Milk Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Camembert Cheese or Sheep's Milk Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Camembert Cheese the same as Sheep's Milk Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Camembert Cheese is made from cow milk; Sheep's Milk Cheese uses sheep.
Is Camembert Cheese similar to Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Camembert Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Camembert Cheese taste like Sheep's Milk Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
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 Sheep's Milk Cheese made of?
Sheep's Milk Cheese is made from sheep milk, using animal or microbial rennet.
Which should I choose, Camembert Cheese or Sheep's Milk Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.