Cheese spreads are a delicious way to add flavor and creaminess to sandwiches, crackers, vegetables, and more. From classics like cheddar and cream cheese to unique blends with herbs, spices, and other ingredients, cheese spreads open up a world of possibilities. They are great for everyday snacking and meals, and elevate even the simplest of foods to a gourmet level.
Whether you prefer soft spreads or firm ones, mild and creamy flavors or spicy and bold, cheese spreads make a convenient and versatile addition to any kitchen. They require no cooking or prep work, allowing you to enjoy the cheesy goodness right out of the container. This buying guide covers everything you need to know to choose the best cheese spreads for any occasion, along with tips for how to incorporate them into your snacks and meals.
When selecting cheese spreads, important factors to consider are the types of cheese used, added ingredients like herbs or peppers, spreadability and texture, and flavor profile. Identifying how you plan to use the spread will help determine which variety works best for you. Soft, creamy spreads are great for spreading on bread and crackers, while firmer options work well for crudités and melting. And for recipes like dips, a strongly flavored cheese spread will hold up and add bold cheese flavor.
This buying guide provides an overview of popular types of cheese spreads, insight into different varieties and options on the market, and usage ideas for how to enjoy cheese spreads at home. It also covers common questions and factors to help you choose the ideal cheese spreads to stock your refrigerator. With this knowledge, you can confidently buy and use cheese spreads to elevate everyday meals and snacks.
Pine River Cheese Spreads Variety Pack
Pine River's cheese spread variety pack provides three 8oz tubs of creamy Wisconsin cheese spreads to satisfy any cheese craving. The pack includes sharp cheddar, garlic & herb, and Swiss - ideal for snacking or using as dips at your next party.
As you open each tub, you'll be greeted by the rich, velvety texture and full-bodied flavors of Pine River's artisanal cheese spreads. Their family recipes crafted in Wisconsin ensure optimal creaminess and meltability. The spreads are smooth and easy to scoop onto crackers, chips, and vegetable slices.
Indulge in these cheese spreads anywhere - they are shelf-stable at room temperature until opened. However, for best taste and texture, refrigerate after opening. With versatile flavors perfect for any occasion, this variety pack from a historic 60-year Wisconsin brand lets you savor and share the cheese passion.
Key features:
- 3 tubs of 8oz Pine River cheese spreads (sharp cheddar, garlic & herb, Swiss)
- Rich, creamy artisanal cheese flavors
- Shelf-stable until opened
Pros:
- Satisfying full flavors from quality ingredients
- Smooth, velvety texture; easy to spread
- Convenient tubs great for snacks, parties, gifts
Cons:
- Refrigerate promptly after opening
- Only one tub of each flavor
Pine River Sharp Cheddar Cheese Spread 4 Pack
Satisfy your cravings with the four 8oz tubs of velvety smooth, shelf-stable Wisconsin sharp cheddar cheese spread from Pine River. Their 60 years of cheesemaking mastery in small batches brings out the quintessential sharp cheddar flavor - creamy, buttery, with a delightful tang.
The rich cheddar easily spreads onto crackers, chips, and bread. It also effortlessly incorporates into dips, cheese balls, or any recipe needing cheddar flavor. You'll love the convenience of keeping these tubs in your pantry for ready-to-eat snacking when cravings strike. The creamy texture and bold sharp cheddar taste make this spread positively addictive.
Take these generous 8oz tubs of sharp cheddar spread anywhere - they don't require refrigeration until after opening. Made using only quality ingredients by a generations-old Wisconsin brand, you simply can't go wrong with Pine River's authentic cheddar flavor.
Key features:
- 4 tubs of 8oz Pine River sharp cheddar cheese spread
- Smooth, velvety texture; spreads easily
- Shelf-stable; refrigerate after opening
Pros:
- Authentic rich, tangy cheddar flavor
- Generous 8oz tubs for snacking
- Convenient shelf-stable storage
Cons:
- Only available in sharp cheddar flavor
- Must refrigerate after opening
Glacier Ridge Smoked Gouda Cheese Spread
Discover rich, smoky cheese perfection with Glacier Ridge Farms' 8oz spreadable smoked gouda cheese tub. Their artisanal blend of aged cheddar and naturally smoked gouda delivers a bold, smokey flavor with satisfying creaminess.
One taste of the gouda's intense smoky essence and velvety texture makes it irresistible. The creamy cheese glides effortlessly onto crackers, bread, and veggies for instant smoky satisfaction. For easy snacking, keep a tub in the fridge - the creamy gouda is conveniently spreadable straight from the refrigerator.
Made from all-natural ingredients in the USA, this smoked gouda spread steps up cheese boards, recipes, and snacks. The smooth, full-flavored cheese is perfect for blending into hot dips or schmearing onto sandwiches. Smoked cheese fans will delight in the bold, authentic wood-fired flavor in every bite.
Key features:
- 8oz tub of smoked gouda cheese spread
- Natural smoke flavor; aged cheddar blend
- Velvety texture ideal for spreading
Pros:
- Rich, intensely smoky wood-fired flavor
- Smooth, creamy mouthfeel
- Easy to spread straight from refrigerator
Cons:
- Only available in 8oz tub
- Artificial smoke flavor is more subtle
Deli Direct Sharp Cheddar Cheese Spread
For serious cheddar lovers, Deli Direct's 8oz sharp cheddar cheese spread delivers the perfect balance of rich creaminess and sharp tang. Their artisanal small-batch cheesemaking infuses each velvety-smooth tub with full, robust cheddar flavor.
One taste and you'll crave the intense aged cheddar taste - the buttery texture pairs flawlessly with the pleasant cheddar bite. Smooth and easy to scoop, it spreads effortlessly onto crackers, bread, vegetables, or anything needing extra cheesy richness.
Keep the convenient 8oz tub on hand to fulfill cheddar cravings instantly, anytime. It doesn't require refrigeration until after opening. Deli Direct's authentic cheddar cheese spread made from quality ingredients lets you savor the quintessential sharp flavor everywhere you go.
Key features:
- 8oz tub of Deli Direct sharp cheddar spread
- Velvety smooth texture, spreads easily
- Shelf-stable until opened
Pros:
- Rich, robust real cheddar flavor
- Creamy, melty texture
- Easy grab-and-go snacking tub
Cons:
- Only available in sharp cheddar
- Smaller tub than deluxe size
Pine River Cheese Spread Variety Pack
Pine River's 4-pack 8oz cheese spread assortment offers a savory Wisconsin cheddar tasting tour. Their generations-old expertise crafting small-batch cheese shines through in each tub's smooth, creamy richness.
You'll enjoy the nuanced aged cheddar flavors - sharp, smoky, garlic and herb, and port wine. Every velvety bite sings with cheesy goodness. The spreads glide effortlessly onto crackers, chips, and veggies for instant cheddar satisfaction.
Keep these shelf-stable tubs handy for ready-to-eat snacking. They only require refrigeration after opening to lock in optimum texture and flavor. With Pine River's authentic cheddar spreads, you can savor Wisconsin's cheese passion wherever cravings strike.
Key features:
- Four 8oz tubs of aged cheddar cheese spreads
- Sharp, smoky, garlic & herb, port wine flavors
- Shelf-stable before opening
Pros:
- Smooth, velvety Wisconsin cheddar
- Unique and versatile flavors
- Easy grab-and-go snack tubs
Cons:
- Small 8oz tub size
- Must refrigerate after opening
Glacier Ridge Farms Aged Cheddar Gourmet Spreadable Cheese 8oz (One Cup)
You'll love the smooth, creamy texture and tangy aged cheddar flavor of this gourmet spreadable cheese from Glacier Ridge Farms. It's made with real Wisconsin cheese and spreads easily right out of the cup.
Slather it generously on crackers or bread for a quick snack or appetizer. It also makes a delicious addition to cooked vegetables, baked potatoes, omelets, grilled cheese sandwiches, or burgers. Bold and creamy, this spreadable cheddar complements both sweet and savory flavors.
Keep a cup in the fridge for impromptu entertaining. It's a crowd-pleasing option for office lunches, summer picnics, backyard barbecues, and holiday gatherings. Serve with fresh veggies or fruit for a fast yet fancy cheese board.
The 8-ounce tub provides ample cheese for multiple uses. Scoop it onto a cheeseball and roll in nuts or herbs for a festive party appetizer. Stir a spoonful into beef stew or macaroni and cheese for extra cheesy flavor.
Key features:
- Real Wisconsin aged cheddar cheese
- Smooth, spreadable texture
- Tangy, bold cheddar flavor
Pros:
- Versatile for many uses
- Generous 8-ounce tub
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Could use more pimento
- Gets dried out if left uncovered
Port Wine Cheese Spread 8 Ounce (Pack of 4) - Pine River
Treat yourself to the sweet yet savory flavors of Pine River's port wine cheese spread. This smooth, spreadable cheese blends aged Wisconsin cheddar with a splash of port wine for a uniquely delicious flavor.
Spread it generously on crackers or bread, and enjoy the tastes of wine and cheese in one bite. It also makes an easy upgrade to vegetable crudités, baked potatoes, sandwiches, burgers, and more. The sweetness balances bold cheddar for a gourmet flavor combo.
This pack of four 8-ounce tubs provides ample cheese for entertaining and everyday use. Always keep some on hand for impromptu guests. It travels well in lunches to perk up a sandwich or wrap.
Made in Wisconsin, you can trust this cheese spread is crafted with care using quality ingredients. The texture is creamy and spreadable straight from the fridge. Share a tub at the office, or take it on a picnic or road trip.
Key features:
- Blend of cheddar cheese and port wine
- Made in Wisconsin
- Four 8-ounce resealable tubs
Pros:
- Sweet and savory gourmet flavor
- Generous amount of cheese
- Travel-friendly packaging
Cons:
- Wine flavor could be stronger
- Containers prone to cracking
Kraft Cheese Spread, Pimento, 5 Ounce
Get a taste of classic Americana with Kraft's pimento cheese spread. This smooth, creamy cheese blend is dotted with bits of sweet pimento peppers for a delicious combo.
Slather it on sandwiches or burgers for a pop of flavor and color. It also makes an easy appetizer when served with crackers or veggies. Add a spoonful to mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, or baked potatoes for a cheesy boost.
Whip up some retro cheese straws by spreading it onto bread and baking until crisp. Or shape it into a ball, roll in nuts, and serve with fruit as an easy cheese platter. The uses are endless for this versatile spread.
Kraft pimento cheese spread has been a staple since the 1950s thanks to its nostalgic flavor. Share a jar at the office or a picnic for a familiar comfort food. The 5-ounce jar provides plenty of cheese.
Key features:
- Classic pimento cheese spread
- Made with real cheese
- Smooth, creamy texture
Pros:
- Familiar, comforting flavor
- Versatile uses
- Generous 5-ounce jar
Cons:
- Could use more pimento
- Price has increased over the years
Shullsburg Creamery - Port Wine Cold Pack Cheese Spread - 14 oz.
Treat yourself to the sweet, fruity flavor of Shullsburg Creamery's port wine cheese spread. This decadent cheese blend mixes smooth Wisconsin cheddar with port wine for a gourmet taste.
Generously spread it on crackers or bread for an instant wine and cheese experience. It also livens up sandwiches, burgers, baked potatoes, and vegetables. Stir it into dips, cheeseballs, or mashed potatoes too.
The 14-ounce tub contains a generous amount of cheese spread perfect for entertaining. It travels well, so take it on road trips or pack it in lunches. Always keep some on hand for impromptu guests.
Made in Wisconsin, you can trust this cold pack cheese is crafted with care using quality ingredients. The texture is smooth and spreadable straight from the fridge thanks to a creaming process.
Key features:
- Blend of port wine and cheddar cheese
- Generous 14-ounce tub
- Made in Wisconsin
Pros:
- Sweet, fruity, gourmet flavor
- Smooth, spreadable texture
- Provides ample cheese
Cons:
- Wine flavor could be stronger
- Requires refrigeration after opening
Kraft Cheez Whiz 450 grams - Imported from Canada
Get a taste of the original, authentic Cheez Whiz flavor that can only come from Canada. This creamy, spreadable cheese sauce delivers the classic taste so many Americans fondly remember.
Use it to make nostalgic cheesesteaks, French onion soup, and Welsh rarebit. Drizzle it over veggies, eggs, baked potatoes, or nachos. Spread it on crackers, sandwiches,burgers, or hot dogs for an extra cheesy flavor boost.
This 16-ounce jar contains a generous amount of the original Cheez Whiz. It's perfect for entertaining or everyday meals. Share it at parties, picnics, office lunches, and holidays.
Made with actual cheese, this iconic spread delivers rich cheddar flavor and creamy smooth texture. Scoop it right out of the jar for instant cheesy deliciousness.
Key features:
- Authentic Canadian Cheez Whiz
- Real cheddar cheese flavor
- 16-ounce jar
Pros:
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Generous amount
- Nostalgic flavor
Cons:
- Expensive
- Only sold in smaller jars
Cheese Spread Buying Guide
When it comes to cheese spreads, there are many varieties and options to choose from. Here are some of the most common types of cheese spreads and factors to consider when selecting the best options for your needs.
Cheddar Cheese Spread
A cheddar cheese spread is arguably the most popular and familiar variety. It is typically made from a blend of cheddar cheeses, resulting in a creamy, tangy flavor. The color ranges from off-white to yellow-orange. Many brands use a combination of young and aged cheddars. The aged cheddars provide a sharper, more complex flavor, while the young cheddars impart creaminess and mellowness. For a very creamy, soft consistency suitable for spreading look for cheddar cheese spreads made with added milk or cream. Reduced-fat cheddar spreads are also available for a lighter option. Cheddar cheese spreads work well for topping crackers, sandwiches, burgers and more.
When buying cheddar cheese spread consider the flavor profile - mild, medium or sharp. If you like a bold cheddar flavor, look for one labeled as sharp or extra sharp. For cooking, a milder spread will allow other ingredient flavors to shine through. Also pay attention to the ingredients - cheese should be at the top. Added seasonings like pepper or garlic are common to add extra dimension.
Cream Cheese Spread
Cream cheese on its own has a mild, fresh dairy flavor and a soft, smooth and spreadable texture. It is a versatile base for all kinds of sweet and savory spreads. Herbs, spices, vegetables and fruits are frequently mixed in, along with items like bacon, salmon or honey for unique flavor combinations. Plain cream cheese is ideal as a sandwich spread, dip, or cheese plate item. Flavored cream cheese spreads pair well with bagels, crackers and bread. Sweet blends can be used to fill or top desserts.
When choosing a plain cream cheese spread, opt for brands labeled as "neufchatel" which has a lower fat content than traditional cream cheese, or reduced-fat varieties. For flavored cream cheese spreads, pick flavors that appeal to your tastes - popular choices include chives, strawberry, caramelized onion and jalapeno. Check the ingredient list to ensure real cream cheese is used rather than a cheese product.
Blue Cheese Spread
With its distinctive veining and pungent, robust flavor blue cheese makes a bold and delicious spread. Plain blue cheese spread features a mix of blue cheeses like gorgonzola, Roquefort and stilton. The diversity balances nuances of sharpness, saltiness and bitterness. Blue cheese spreads with added ingredients like walnuts, bacon or figs are also popular. The strong flavor of blue cheese holds up well to other bold ingredients. These spreads pair excellently with hearty crackers, pears, steak and in salad dressings.
Opt for blue cheese spreads made from a blend of cheeses for complexity. Added cream helps create a rich, spreadable texture. If you are not a fan of strong blue cheese, look for mild or creamy varieties. For cooking, a spread with assertive blue cheese flavor works best.
Peppercorn Cheese Spread
This variety incorporates cracked black, green, or multi-colored peppercorns into a creamy cheese base. Popular versions feature cheddar, Swiss, Asiago or Gouda cheeses. The peppercorns provide a burst of spice and mild heat that pairs wonderfully with the cheese. Peppercorn cheese spreads lend an extra kick to sandwiches, eggs, pasta and vegetables. They also tend to be lower in fat and calories than other cheese spread options.
Check the label for the types of peppercorns used - a mix provides layered flavor. Cheese should still be the first ingredient. Peppercorn spreads pair well with crackers, crusty bread and red grapes. For cooking, they work very well in sauces or sprinkled on pizza.
Pimento Cheese Spread
A southern favorite, pimento cheese spread consists of shredded cheddar or processed cheese blended with diced pimentos and mayonnaise. The result is a colorful, flavored cheese spread with a creamy consistency. The pimentos add mild sweetness to balance the tangy cheese. Pimento cheese is terrific on sandwiches, burgers and more.
When purchasing, look for pimento cheese made from real cheddar rather than "cheese product". Mayonnaise is key for creaminess. Added spices like Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce or paprika enhance the flavor. For a lower calorie pimento cheese option, search for ones with reduced-fat mayonnaise.
Herb and Garlic Cheese Spread
Herbs de Provence and garlic are frequently mixed into cheese spreads, adding aromatic flavor. Popular versions include garlic and herb cheddar, cream cheese, goat cheese and feta. The herbs and garlic complement the cheese flavor, rather than overpowering it. These spreads are excellent served with baguettes, crackers, vegetables, grilled meat or fish. They also make flavorful additions to pastas, omelets, mashed potatoes and more.
Check that real cheese is the first ingredient. Chives, parsley, oregano, basil and garlic are typical herbs used. For the strongest flavor, avoid reduced-fat or low-fat varieties. Plain herb and garlic cheese spreads allow the flavor to shine through for recipes and cooking.
Olive Cheese Spread
Both black and green olives are often incorporated into cheese spreads for a briny, savory flavor. Feta, cheddar, cream cheese and goat cheese make popular bases for olive spreads. Small chopped olives add pops of flavor and texture while olive tapenade swirled in provides visual appeal. Olive cheese spreads pair deliciously with flatbread, crusty bread, crostini and antipasto platters. They can also be used in paninis, pastas and Mediterranean dishes.
Look for olive cheese spreads made from real cheese rather than a processed cheese product. Kalamata olives offer bold, rich flavor. Pimiento-stuffed green olives provide color and mildness. For cooking, feta or goat cheese olive spreads allow other ingredients to shine.
Smoked Cheese Spread
For an extra punch of flavor, smoked gouda, cheddar and provolone are blended into creamy cheese spreads. The smoking process imparts a distinctive charred, earthy taste that adds complexity. Smoked cheese spreads are delicious served with hearty crackers, pretzels and bread. They also stand up well in cooked dishes like casseroles, dips, omelets, mac and cheese, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Check that real smoked cheese is used rather than natural cheese with a smokey flavoring. For intensity, avoid light or reduced-fat smoked cheese spreads. The charred taste pairs best with strong crackers and breads. For cooking, a mildly smoked cheese allows other flavors to come through.
Nut Cheese Spread
Nuts like almonds, walnuts and pine nuts are often incorporated into cheese spreads for crunch and nutty flavor. Popular versions include almond-cream cheese, cheddar-almond and walnut-feta spreads. They tend to be lower in cholesterol than traditional cheese spreads. Nut cheese spreads make tasty and filling snacks paired with apples and pears or topped on toast or bagels. They can also be used in cooking recipes like pasta and salads.
Look for real nuts in the ingredient list, not "nut flavoring". Toasted nuts provide the most flavor. For texture, seek spreads with larger nut pieces rather than ground nuts. Creamed nut-cheese blends tend to be lower in fat and calories than plain cream cheese.
Pesto Cheese Spread
Pesto is a flavorful sauce made from basil, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, pine nuts and lemon. When swirled or blended into cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese, it makes a fresh and aromatic cheese spread. Pesto cream cheese is popular choice. These spreads taste delicious served with crackers or fresh bread, in paninis and bruschetta or tossed with pasta or pizza.
For the most authentic flavor, look for pesto cheese spreads made with imported European basil and Parmesan. A vivid green color indicates plenty of basil. The balance of pesto to cheese allows the flavors to complement one another rather than compete.
Chili Cheese Spread
Spicy chili seasoning and peppers are commonly combined with cheese to make spreads with a kick of heat. Popular options include chili cheddar and cream cheese, pepper jack and chorizo cheese dips. Chili cheese spreads pair wonderfully with tortilla chips, crackers, soft pretzels or bread. They make flavorful additions to burgers, nachos, omelets, chili and more.
Look for real cheese as the first ingredient, not a processed cheese product. Jalapenos, chipotles and chili powder add authentic spice, not just red pepper flakes. For mild heat, opt for chili cream cheese rather than a extra sharp cheddar and chili blend.
Cheese and Meat Spreads
Ingredients like bacon, sausage, roast beef and ham are often incorporated into cheese spreads for fun flavor combinations. Smoky bacon and cheddar or provolone is a classic pairing. Salami and pepper jack or cream cheese also make delicious savory spreads. These cheese and meat blends are perfect for sandwiches, paninis, bagels, rolls and crostini.
Seek out quality real meats rather than "meat flavorings". Bacon bits or chunks provide the best texture and taste. For cooking, avoid cheese and meat blends as they can overwhelm other flavors.
Tips for Using Cheese Spreads
Cheese spreads are endlessly versatile. Here are tips and ideas for making the most of the cheese spreads in your refrigerator:
- Soften cream cheese and goat cheese to room temperature before spreading for optimal smoothness.
- Mix assorted cheese spreads together for custom blends and flavors.
- Spread pepper jack cheese on a burger for some heat.
- Make pinwheels with cheese spread and sliced deli meat rolled in a tortilla.
- Stuff a baked potato with cheddar cheese spread, bacon and scallions.
- Swirl pesto cream cheese into pasta shells, chicken or rice.
- Top a baked sweet potato with cinnamon cream cheese.
- Use blue cheese spread as a delicious burger topping instead of plain crumbles.
- Make homemade lunchables with cheese spread, nuts, fruits and crackers.
- Spread smoked gouda on crostini and top with apple butter or fig jam.
- Fill celery sticks with herbed cream cheese for an easy appetizer.
- Mix cheese spread into scrambled eggs or omelets just before cooking.
- Make mac and cheese with creamy cheese spread for quick stove top or baked versions.
- Stuff mushrooms with a blend of cream cheese, spinach and parmesan.
- Spread chive cream cheese on a bagel with lox and tomato.
- Mix chili cream cheese with canned chicken or tuna for a spicy salad.
- Use almond cheddar spread as a dip for apple and pear slices.
The possibilities are endless with all the cheese spread options available today. Get creative with unique flavor combinations and recipes. Cheese spreads make it easy to add a flavorful punch of cheesy goodness to snacks, appetizers, sandwiches, main dishes and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheese Spreads
How long do cheese spreads last when unopened?
Most commercially packaged cheese spreads have a shelf life of 2-4 months. Always check the “best by” or expiration date on the label and store opened cheese spreads in the refrigerator. Soft spreads like cream cheese will expire quicker than aged cheddar cheese spreads. Properly stored, unopened cheese spreads maintain quality for the duration of the printed expiration date.
How long does opened cheese spread last in the fridge?
Like most dairy products, cheese spreads last longer when unopened. Once opened, the oxygen exposure decreases freshness. Most opened cheese spreads stay fresh in the refrigerator for 7-10 days. To maximize freshness, store them in a sealed container rather than the original packaging. Press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing. Monitor for mold development or changes in color, odor or texture. Discard if any signs of spoilage.
What is the healthiest cheese spread?
Neufchatel and part-skim ricotta tend to be healthier cream cheese options with less fat and calories. Reduced-fat and light varieties of cheddar, Swiss, and other cheese spreads also have less fat and calories. Ingredients to limit are cream, whole milk, and oils which increase overall fat content. Added seasonings like garlic and herbs impart lots of flavors without extra calories.
What cheese makes the best spread?
Cream cheese and fresh goat cheese offer an inherently soft, spreadable texture. Cheddar, Swiss, gouda and other hard cheeses need added cream, milk or mayo to achieve a creamy, spreadable consistency. Cream cheese and neufchatel make excellent bases to blend with herbs, nuts, vegetables and other mix-ins. Soft goat cheese is tangy and pairs well with sweet flavors like honey or fruit spreads.
Can you freeze cheese spreads?
Most opened cheese spreads freeze well for 2-3 months. Make sure they are fresh not expired before freezing. Place the spread in an airtight freezer container, allowing headspace for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Soft cheeses like cream cheese may separate upon thawing but will remix well with stirring. Harder cheeses retain texture better.
Are cheese spreads gluten free?
Plain cheese spreads without added ingredients are naturally gluten free. Always check the label to confirm no gluten containing ingredients like wheat have been added. Commonly added items like nuts, fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices are all naturally gluten free. Flavored cream cheese spreads are generally gluten free, but check labels for croutons, wheat crackers or other fillings containing gluten.
Are cheese spreads keto friendly?
Full-fat cheese spreads without added sugars fit very well into a keto eating plan. Options like cheddar, cream cheese, goat cheese, feta and blue cheese contain no carbs and offer an excellent source of fats. Be mindful of reduced-fat and light varieties with increased fillers and carbs. Always read nutrition labels, as a keto diet limits carbs to 20-50 grams daily.
Can you bake with cheese spreads?
The creamy texture and concentrated cheese flavor of cheese spreads make them a convenient baking shortcut. Use cream cheese spread as the base for quick cheesecake or frosting. Cheddar spread adds great cheese flavor to baked mac and cheese or cauliflower casseroles. Goat cheese gives a tangy boost to pizza crusts. Use cheese spreads measured by weight for accuracy in baked good recipes.
What is the difference between cheese spread and cheese dip?
Cheese spreads and dips are very similar - both blend cheese into a creamy, scoopable texture. Spreads are generally thicker to stay on crackers or bread while dips are more fluid for chips and vegetables. Ingredients also vary, with spreads focused on cheese flavor and dips including mix-ins like beans or salsa. Overall the terms are used interchangeably in most casual settings.
Conclusion
With so many tasty options on the market, cheese spreads are a great way to add flavor, creaminess and versatility to everyday eating. From kid-friendly lunches to gourmet appetizers, cheese spreads make it easy to elevate snacks and meals. Consider the intended use, flavor preferences and ingredients to select the ideal cheese spreads for your needs. Then get creative with ways to enjoy them in your cooking, baking and snacking. With proper storage, cheese spreads will retain freshness for weeks to come. So stock up and spread the cheesy goodness!
Resources
- Cheese.com - World's Greatest Cheese Resource: This website provides information on different kinds of cheese from around the world. It has a database of 1832 varieties of cheese that can be searched by name, country of origin, kind of milk used, or texture. It also offers serving and storage tips for cheese.
- Cheese: Types, health benefits, and risks - Medical News Today: This article discusses the types of cheese, their health benefits, and potential risks. It provides information on the nutritional content of different cheeses and explores the debate on whether we should eat more or less cheese.
- 6 Types of Cheese - Flavors, Pairings, & Textures - WebstaurantStore: This resource explores the different types of cheese, their flavors, textures, and ideal wine pairings. It provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the characteristics of various cheeses.
- Cheese: Are There Health Benefits? - WebMD: This article from WebMD discusses the health benefits of cheese. It provides nutrition information and highlights the surprising health benefits that cheese can offer when consumed in moderation.
- Dairy Data - USDA ERS: This resource from the USDA Economic Research Service provides data files covering domestic supply, demand, and international trade of various dairy products, including cheese. It offers valuable information on the U.S. dairy situation, milk production, and factors affecting supply and utilization.