Cheese and dessert might seem like unlikely partners, but in many cultures, cheese has long been a beloved part of the sweet course. The salty, tangy, and rich flavors of certain cheeses offer a delightful counterpoint to sweet fruits, pastries, and wines, creating a complex and satisfying experience. This guide explores the wonderful world of dessert cheeses, highlighting some of the best varieties and offering tips on how to pair them for a truly memorable treat.
The Allure of Dessert Cheese
The appeal of incorporating cheese into dessert stems from the way it balances sweetness. A rich, creamy cheese can cut through the intensity of sugary flavors, adding depth and complexity. Furthermore, the diverse textures and flavors available within the cheese world provide endless possibilities for culinary creativity. Think of a perfectly ripe pear paired with a crumbly Gorgonzola, or a warm slice of apple pie topped with a dollop of mascarpone – the combinations are truly captivating.
Different cultures have embraced cheese as dessert in unique ways. In France, a cheese course is a common way to end a meal. In Italy, mascarpone finds its way into countless sweet dishes. In England, Stilton is often enjoyed with port wine. This widespread appreciation proves that cheese and dessert can indeed be a match made in culinary heaven.
Exploring the Best Dessert Cheeses
Not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to dessert pairings. Certain characteristics make some cheeses particularly well-suited to complement sweet flavors. Generally, cheeses that are creamy, tangy, or have a subtle sweetness themselves tend to shine in dessert applications. Let’s delve into some specific examples:
Creamy & Rich Cheeses
These cheeses provide a luxurious mouthfeel and a delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with fruits, pastries, and even chocolate.
Mascarpone
Mascarpone is an Italian cream cheese known for its incredibly smooth and rich texture. Its subtle sweetness and high fat content make it a fantastic addition to desserts. It is a key ingredient in Tiramisu, where it provides a creamy base that perfectly balances the coffee and cocoa flavors. Mascarpone can also be used as a topping for cakes, pastries, and fresh fruit. Its versatility makes it a staple in many dessert recipes.
Ricotta
Another Italian cheese, ricotta, is known for its light and slightly grainy texture. While often used in savory dishes, ricotta can also be a wonderful dessert cheese, especially when combined with honey, nuts, and fruit. It can be used in cheesecakes for a lighter texture, or as a filling for cannoli. The subtle sweetness of ricotta allows it to complement other flavors without overpowering them.
Crème Fraîche
Crème fraîche is a French cultured cream with a tangy, slightly acidic flavor. Its rich texture and subtle sourness make it a great counterpoint to sweet desserts. It can be used as a topping for pies, cakes, and fruit tarts. The acidity of crème fraîche cuts through the richness of other ingredients, creating a well-balanced flavor profile.
Tangy & Sharp Cheeses
A touch of tanginess or sharpness can add an exciting dimension to desserts, providing a counterpoint to sweetness that is both refreshing and complex.
Goat Cheese (Chèvre)
Goat cheese, or chèvre, comes in many varieties, from fresh and creamy to aged and crumbly. Fresh goat cheese has a bright, tangy flavor that pairs well with fruits like berries, figs, and peaches. Aged goat cheese has a more pronounced flavor and can be used in savory-sweet applications, such as goat cheese cheesecake with a balsamic glaze. The acidity of goat cheese helps to balance the sweetness of fruit and other dessert ingredients.
Cream Cheese
While often associated with savory dishes, cream cheese can be a versatile dessert ingredient. Its smooth texture and mild tanginess make it a key component in cheesecakes, frostings, and dips. It can also be used to create sweet and savory appetizers, such as cream cheese stuffed dates with walnuts and honey.
Blue Cheeses
Blue cheeses offer a bold, pungent flavor that can be surprisingly delicious when paired with sweet elements. Their salty and earthy notes provide a complex counterpoint to sweetness.
Gorgonzola
Gorgonzola is an Italian blue cheese with a creamy texture and a strong, pungent flavor. Its distinct flavor pairs beautifully with sweet fruits like pears, apples, and figs. It can be served with honey or balsamic glaze to further enhance its sweetness. Gorgonzola’s boldness makes it a memorable addition to any dessert platter.
Roquefort
Roquefort is a French blue cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a sharp, salty flavor and a crumbly texture. Roquefort pairs well with sweet wines like Sauternes, as well as with figs, dates, and walnuts. The combination of sweet and salty flavors creates a complex and satisfying experience.
Stilton
Stilton is an English blue cheese known for its rich, creamy texture and distinctive flavor. It is traditionally served with port wine and can also be paired with pears, apples, and honey. Stilton’s bold flavor stands up well to sweet accompaniments, making it a classic dessert cheese.
Firm & Hard Cheeses
While less common in traditional desserts, some firm and hard cheeses can add a surprising depth of flavor when paired thoughtfully with sweet elements.
Parmesan
Parmesan, with its salty and nutty flavor, may seem like an unlikely dessert cheese. However, when shaved thinly over fresh fruit or drizzled with balsamic vinegar, it can create a delightful sweet and savory combination. The saltiness of the Parmesan enhances the sweetness of the fruit, while the balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity.
Pecorino Romano
Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese made from sheep’s milk. While primarily used in savory dishes, it can be grated over pears or figs for a unique flavor combination. Its sharp, salty flavor provides a contrast to the sweetness of the fruit.
Pairing Cheese with Dessert: A Guide
The key to successfully incorporating cheese into your dessert course is to choose pairings that complement each other. Consider the flavors, textures, and intensities of both the cheese and the dessert.
Fruit & Cheese
This is a classic and versatile pairing. The sweetness and acidity of fruit complement the richness and saltiness of cheese.
- Berries: Pair with fresh goat cheese, mascarpone, or ricotta. The sweetness of the berries and the tanginess of the cheese create a refreshing combination.
- Pears: Pair with Gorgonzola, Stilton, or Roquefort. The sweet, juicy flavor of pears complements the bold, pungent flavor of blue cheese.
- Figs: Pair with goat cheese, Parmesan, or Pecorino Romano. The sweetness of figs and the saltiness of the cheese create a delightful sweet and savory combination.
- Apples: Pair with Cheddar, Gruyere, or Stilton. The crisp, sweet flavor of apples complements the sharpness of the cheese.
Honey & Cheese
Honey is a natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with many cheeses, enhancing their sweetness and adding a touch of floral aroma.
- Goat cheese: Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped nuts for a simple and elegant dessert.
- Ricotta: Mix with honey and cinnamon for a sweet and creamy treat.
- Blue cheese: Serve with a drizzle of honey and some walnuts for a complex and satisfying flavor combination.
Nuts & Cheese
Nuts add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the richness of cheese.
- Walnuts: Pair with Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or Stilton. The earthy flavor of walnuts complements the boldness of blue cheese.
- Almonds: Pair with goat cheese or Brie. The subtle sweetness of almonds complements the tanginess of goat cheese and the creaminess of Brie.
- Pecans: Pair with cream cheese or mascarpone. The buttery flavor of pecans complements the richness of these cheeses.
Wine & Cheese
Pairing cheese with wine can elevate the dessert experience to a whole new level. Choose wines that complement the flavors and textures of both the cheese and the dessert.
- Sweet wines: Sauternes, port, and Moscato pair well with blue cheeses like Roquefort and Stilton. The sweetness of the wine balances the saltiness of the cheese.
- Dessert wines: Vin Santo and ice wine pair well with creamy cheeses like mascarpone and ricotta. The rich, sweet flavors of the wine complement the creaminess of the cheese.
- Sparkling wines: Champagne and Prosecco pair well with a variety of cheeses, from Brie to goat cheese. The bubbles and acidity of the wine cleanse the palate and enhance the flavors of the cheese.
Chocolate & Cheese
While less traditional, chocolate and cheese can be a surprisingly delightful pairing. The bitterness of dark chocolate and the richness of cheese can create a complex and satisfying flavor combination.
- Dark chocolate: Pair with aged cheddar or Parmesan. The saltiness of the cheese complements the bitterness of the chocolate.
- Milk chocolate: Pair with Brie or mascarpone. The sweetness of the milk chocolate complements the creaminess of the cheese.
- White chocolate: Pair with blue cheese or goat cheese. The sweetness of the white chocolate balances the boldness of the cheese.
Serving Suggestions for Dessert Cheese
Presentation is key when serving cheese as dessert. Arrange the cheese attractively on a platter with complementary accompaniments such as fruit, nuts, honey, and crackers. Provide small knives or spoons for serving. Allow the cheese to come to room temperature for optimal flavor.
A cheese course can be a sophisticated and delicious way to end a meal. By carefully selecting cheeses and pairings, you can create a memorable culinary experience for your guests. Whether you are a seasoned cheese lover or a curious newcomer, exploring the world of dessert cheese is a rewarding and delicious adventure.
Creating a Dessert Cheese Platter
Building a balanced and appealing dessert cheese platter involves considering a variety of factors, including flavor profiles, textures, and visual appeal. Aim for a mix of cheeses that offer different experiences. Include something creamy, something tangy, and something bold.
Consider the accompaniments as well. Fresh and dried fruits provide sweetness and contrasting textures. Nuts add crunch and earthy notes. Honey and jams enhance the sweetness and complexity of the cheeses. Crackers or bread offer a neutral base for enjoying the cheese and accompaniments.
Ultimately, the best dessert cheese platter is one that reflects your personal tastes and preferences. Experiment with different combinations and find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to try new things and discover your own unique pairings. The world of cheese is vast and varied, and there is always something new to explore.
What qualities make a cheese suitable for dessert?
Cheeses that complement sweet flavors for desserts generally possess a balanced profile that is not overly sharp or pungent. A good dessert cheese will often have a creamy or slightly sweet taste with a pleasant texture, enhancing rather than overpowering the sweetness of the accompanying fruit, honey, or pastry. These cheeses typically exhibit mild acidity and subtle nuances that allow them to harmonize with the other dessert components, creating a delightful contrast and complexity.
Furthermore, texture plays a crucial role. Cheeses suitable for dessert should have a pleasing mouthfeel, ranging from soft and spreadable to firm and crumbly. The ideal texture can enhance the overall dessert experience, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness and other textures present. Consider cheeses that offer interesting visual appeal as well, making the final dessert presentation even more tempting.
Can you suggest some specific types of cheese that pair well with fruit?
Soft cheeses like mascarpone, ricotta, and cream cheese are excellent choices for pairing with fruit. Mascarpone offers a rich, creamy texture and subtle sweetness that beautifully complements berries, peaches, and figs. Ricotta, with its slightly grainy texture and delicate flavor, pairs well with citrus fruits, pears, and honey. Cream cheese, when whipped and sweetened, can be served alongside fresh fruit salads or used as a filling for fruit tarts.
Semi-hard cheeses, such as Havarti and mild cheddar, can also work surprisingly well with certain fruits. Havarti’s buttery flavor and smooth texture make it a good match for apples and grapes. Mild cheddar, with its slightly tangy notes, can be paired with pears or used in baked apple desserts. The key is to select fruits that complement the cheese’s flavor profile without overwhelming it.
How should I serve cheese with dessert? Should it be chilled or at room temperature?
Serving cheese at the correct temperature is crucial for maximizing its flavor and texture. Generally, it’s best to serve cheese at room temperature, allowing the flavors to fully develop and the texture to soften. This usually means removing the cheese from the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before serving, depending on the cheese’s size and type.
However, certain cheeses, like cream cheese or mascarpone, might be better served slightly chilled, especially if they are part of a layered dessert or filling. In these cases, chilling helps maintain the dessert’s structure and prevents the cheese from becoming too soft or runny. Consider the overall dessert composition and the individual characteristics of the cheese when deciding on the serving temperature.
What are some creative dessert recipes that incorporate cheese?
One creative dessert incorporating cheese is a baked ricotta cheesecake. This dessert utilizes the creamy texture and delicate flavor of ricotta cheese as the base for a lighter and less dense cheesecake compared to traditional cream cheese versions. Adding lemon zest or vanilla extract can further enhance the flavor profile, and it pairs wonderfully with a fruit compote or berry sauce.
Another option is mascarpone-filled cannoli. Traditionally, cannoli are filled with ricotta cheese, but substituting mascarpone adds an extra layer of richness and creaminess. This dessert is usually flavored with citrus zest and chocolate chips, then dusted with powdered sugar. The combination of the crisp shell and the decadent filling makes it a truly indulgent treat.
Are there any cheeses that are too strong or pungent to be used in desserts?
Generally, very strong or pungent cheeses, such as blue cheeses like Roquefort or strongly aged cheddars, are not ideal for desserts due to their intense flavors that can easily overpower other dessert elements. While these cheeses can be enjoyed on their own or paired with savory accompaniments like crackers and nuts, their assertive taste profile often clashes with the sweetness typically found in desserts.
However, exceptions can be made if the cheese is used sparingly and paired with equally bold flavors. For example, a small amount of crumbled blue cheese might work well in a pear tart with a drizzle of honey, provided the blue cheese’s intensity is balanced by the sweetness of the pear and honey. Ultimately, choosing a cheese for dessert depends on personal preference and the overall flavor profile of the dish.
What are some suitable accompaniments to serve with dessert cheeses?
A variety of accompaniments can enhance the experience of serving dessert cheeses. Fresh fruits, such as berries, grapes, figs, and pears, provide a natural sweetness and acidity that complements the cheese’s flavor. Honey and fruit preserves offer a concentrated sweetness and can add a touch of elegance. Consider offering a selection of nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for added texture and nutty flavor.
Crackers or bread, such as biscotti or baguette slices, provide a neutral base for the cheese and other accompaniments. Sweet wines, like Sauternes or Moscato, pair beautifully with dessert cheeses, enhancing their sweetness and complexity. A simple garnish of fresh herbs, like mint or rosemary, can add a pop of color and a subtle aromatic element to the presentation.
Are there any vegan cheese options that work well in desserts?
Yes, there are several vegan cheese options available that can be used effectively in desserts. Cashew-based cream cheeses are a popular choice, offering a rich and creamy texture similar to traditional dairy-based cream cheese. These can be used in vegan cheesecakes, frostings, or as a base for dessert fillings. Other nut-based cheeses, such as almond or macadamia nut cheese, can also be suitable depending on the desired flavor profile.
Additionally, tofu-based ricotta alternatives are available and can be used in vegan versions of desserts like cannoli or ricotta cake. The key is to select vegan cheeses that have a relatively neutral flavor and creamy texture to best mimic the qualities of traditional dairy cheeses used in desserts. Experimentation with different recipes and flavors will help you find the vegan cheese options that work best for your specific needs.