Homemade Cream Cheese: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that can elevate your breakfast bagel, add richness to a cheesecake, or be the perfect spread on your favorite sandwich. While store-bought versions are convenient, there’s something special about making your own at home. The best part? It’s simpler than you might think! This homemade cream cheese recipe uses just three ingredients and yields a creamy, tangy, and fresh result that you’ll love.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Heat the Milk:
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the whole milk to a soft boil over medium heat. - Add the Lemon Juice:
Once the milk has started to boil, add the lemon juice. Using a slotted spoon, stir everything together. You’ll notice the curds starting to separate from the whey almost immediately. Remove the saucepan from the heat. - Strain the Curds:
Place a cheesecloth over a strainer and pour the curdled mixture into it. Allow the whey to drain out, leaving the curds behind. - Process the Curds:
After straining, squeeze out any excess liquid from the curds. Transfer the curds to a food processor, add the salt, and process for at least 3 minutes until smooth and creamy. - Chill:
Transfer the cream cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese:
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice works best for this recipe, as it provides the necessary acidity to curdle the milk.
- Don’t Overcook the Milk: Keep an eye on the milk as it heats. You want a soft boil, not a rolling boil, to prevent scalding.
Serving Suggestions:
- Spread on bagels or toast
- Use as a base for a creamy cheesecake
- Mix with herbs and spices for a savory spread
- Pair with fresh fruits for a simple and delicious snack
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories: 90 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
Conclusion:
Making your own cream cheese at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to control the ingredients and flavor. Whether you’re looking to elevate your breakfast or add a fresh touch to your cooking, this homemade cream cheese recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness that only comes from homemade!
Enjoy crafting this delightful homemade cream cheese, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media! Tag me in your posts and let me know how you enjoyed this recipe. Happy cooking!
Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
The process of making your own cream cheese is both rewarding and surprisingly simple. With just a few basic ingredients and steps, you can create a creamy, fresh cheese that’s perfect for spreading on bagels, incorporating into recipes, or enjoying as a dip. The homemade version is often more flavorful and healthier than store-bought varieties, as you can control the ingredients and avoid preservatives.
Making cream cheese at home allows you to customize it to your taste. You can add herbs, spices, or other flavorings to suit your preferences. Plus, the process of transforming milk into a delicious cheese is a fun and educational experience that the whole family can enjoy. This recipe is a great way to explore the world of homemade cheeses and elevate your cooking with a touch of homemade charm.
Ingredients
4 cups whole milk
3–4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the milk to a soft boil.
Once the milk has started to boil, add the lemon juice. Using a slotted spoon, stir everything together. The curds should start to separate from the whey almost immediately. Remove from the heat.
Strain the curds using a cheesecloth and strainer.
Squeeze out any excess liquid and transfer the curd to a food processor. Add the salt and process for at least 3 minutes.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 90 Kcal