How to Make Homemade Cream Cheese: Simple and Delicious Recipe
Have you ever thought about doing Homemade cream cheese? In addition to being a healthy and economical option, homemade cream cheese has an incomparable flavor.
This article will teach you how to make homemade cream cheese in an easy and practical way, as well as answering the most frequently asked questions on the topic. Let's go?
Why Make Homemade Cream Cheese?
To do Homemade cream cheese offers several advantages:
- Authentic Flavor: Homemade cottage cheese has a more authentic and fresh flavor.
- No preservatives: You know exactly what you are putting in your cream cheese, without additives or preservatives.
- Economy: Making cream cheese at home can be more economical than buying industrialized versions.
Required Ingredients
To do the Homemade cream cheese, you will need a few ingredients:
- 1 liter of whole milk
- 4 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 cup milk (to adjust consistency)
Step by Step to Make Homemade Cream Cheese
1. Heat the Milk
Heat the milk in a pan until small bubbles start to form around the edges, but do not let it boil.
2. Add Vinegar or Lemon
Add the vinegar or lemon juice to the heated milk and stir well. Let it rest for about 10 minutes, until the milk curdles and separates the whey from the curds.
3. Strain the Mixture
Using a fine sieve or a clean kitchen towel, strain the mixture to separate the curds from the whey. Set the curd aside and discard the whey.
4. Beat the Curd
Place the curd in a blender or food processor. Add the butter and salt, and beat until you get a homogeneous mixture.
5. Adjust Consistency
Little by little add the reserved milk until it reaches the desired consistency. If you prefer a creamier cream cheese, add more milk; if you prefer it firmer, add less.
6. Store
Transfer the curd to a container with a lid and refrigerate. It can be consumed within a week.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Cream Cheese
- Quality of Ingredients: Use good quality whole milk for a tastier result.
- Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk according to the consistency you want.
- Spices: Try adding seasonings such as herbs, black pepper or garlic to give your curd cheese a special touch.
Homemade Cream Cheese Variations
Homemade Light Cottage Cheese
For a lighter version, you can replace the butter with light cream cheese and use skim milk. The consistency will be a little different, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Homemade Cottage Cheese with Herbs
Adding fine herbs, such as basil, parsley and chives, can transform the flavor of your curd. Just chop the herbs and mix them with the curd after beating the curd.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade cream cheese last?
O Homemade cream cheese It lasts an average of a week in the refrigerator if stored in a closed container.
Can I freeze homemade cream cheese?
Yes, you can freeze homemade cream cheese. However, it may change the texture a little when defrosting. For best results, defrost in the refrigerator and blend again if necessary.
Can I make homemade cream cheese with skimmed milk?
Yes, it is possible to do Homemade cream cheese with skimmed milk, but the result will be less creamy compared to that made with whole milk.
What to do with whey?
Whey can be used in various recipes, such as breads, cakes and smoothies. It is rich in protein and can replace water or milk in recipes.
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar can be used in place of white vinegar, but it may slightly alter the flavor of the cottage cheese.
Conclusion
To do Homemade cream cheese It is an excellent alternative for those looking for a healthier, tasty and economical option compared to industrialized products.
With just a few ingredients and a simple step-by-step guide, you can prepare fresh cream cheese, free of preservatives and with a unique flavor that will please the whole family.
Additionally, homemade cream cheese offers the flexibility to be adapted according to your personal preferences, allowing you to add seasonings and herbs for a special touch. The shelf life of homemade cottage cheese is satisfactory and, when stored correctly, it can be consumed over the course of a week.