Randy Chandler
Chocolate cheese is an unusual treat that blends the flavours of chocolate and cheese. While it may sound like an unlikely combination, it is a real product that you can buy or make at home. This paragraph will explore how chocolate cheese is made and some of the different recipes and ingredients used.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Cream, butter, sugar, cocoa, Monterey Jack cheese, chocolate milk, vegetable oil, chocolate powder, whipping cream, calcium chloride, distilled water, vegetable rennet, kosher salt, crystal sugar, cultures |
| Texture | Fudge-like, creamy |
| Taste | Sweet, nutty, acidic |
| Pairings | Graham crackers, Nilla Wafers, fresh fruits, croissants, brownies, popcorn, nuts, peanut butter |
| Recipes | Kim Odland's recipe |
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Ingredients
Chocolate cheese is a unique treat with a fudge-like texture and a creamy mouthfeel. While the exact ingredients and methods may vary, the key ingredients that form the base of chocolate cheese are cream, butter, sugar, and cocoa or chocolate.
Some recipes suggest using chocolate milk, cream, and cultures to create a rich, nutty flavour. This involves heating the cream to 100°F before adding it to the chocolate milk, along with other ingredients, such as calcium chloride, vegetable rennet, and a mix of kosher salt and crystal sugar. The milk and cream should be left at room temperature for about two hours before preparing the cheese.
Other recipes use a blend of fine chocolate fudge with premium cream cheese, resulting in a smooth and creamy balance of sweet chocolate and mild cheese. The addition of butter and sugar enhances the creaminess and sweetness of the final product.
It is worth noting that the process of making chocolate cheese is similar to that of regular cheese, with the key difference being the incorporation of chocolate or cocoa. This can be achieved by using chocolate milk or adding cocoa powder to regular milk. However, simply combining chocolate with cheese does not always yield desirable results, as the flavours may not blend harmoniously.
Chocolate cheese can be enjoyed in various ways, such as spreading it on crackers or wafers, pairing it with fresh fruits, or even using it in baking, such as brownies or cheesecake.
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Recipe
There are several recipes for chocolate cheese available, and it can be made either at home or bought from specialist retailers.
One recipe for chocolate cheese blends chocolate milk, cream, and cultures to create a rich, delicious treat with a nutty flavor. The creator of this recipe, Kim Odland, recommends heating the cream to 100°F before adding it to the milk to help it blend better. Odland also suggests using a mixture of kosher salt and crystal sugar.
Another recipe for chocolate cheese involves blending quality ingredients like cream, butter, sugar, cocoa, and Monterey Jack cheese. This results in a unique texture that is similar to fudge, with the creaminess of cheesecake. This type of chocolate cheese can be paired with sweet accompaniments like graham crackers, Nilla Wafers, and fresh fruits, or even folded into a brownie mix for a cheesecake-style swirl.
It is also possible to make chocolate cheese using store-bought chocolate milk, cream, and cheese cultures. This method may be more accessible for those who do not have access to fresh dairy products or cheese-making equipment.
While chocolate cheese may not be to everyone's taste, it is an interesting and unique treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
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Taste and texture
Chocolate cheese is a fudge-like treat with a creamy texture. It is made by blending chocolate milk, cream, and cultures to create a rich, sweet, and nutty flavour. The "mouth feel" is described as similar to fudge, with a distinct acidic cheese flavour. The taste is further enhanced by the use of quality ingredients such as butter, sugar, cocoa, and Monterey Jack cheese.
The unique texture and flavour of chocolate cheese make it a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in both sweet and savoury dishes. It can be paired with accompaniments like graham crackers, Nilla Wafers, and fresh fruits. Chocolate cheese also makes a great addition to baked goods, such as brownies, adding a cheesecake-like swirl to them. For a movie night treat, it can be enjoyed with popcorn, or paired with nuts, especially almonds.
Chocolate cheese offers a unique taste experience, combining the sweetness of chocolate with the creaminess of cheesecake. The balance of flavours can be adjusted by using different types of chocolate and cheese, as well as adding other ingredients such as peanut butter. The result is a decadent and indulgent treat that satisfies mid-afternoon sweet cravings.
While the combination of chocolate and cheese may seem unusual, chocolate cheese has gained a following among those who enjoy exploring new flavours. It is a unique and unexpected treat that challenges traditional flavour profiles and presents a creative approach to cheese-making. The addition of chocolate provides a sweet and indulgent twist to the traditional savoury nature of cheese, making it a fun and surprising option for dessert or as a gift for food lovers.
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Shipping and storage
When it comes to shipping and storing chocolate cheese, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure the product's freshness and quality. Firstly, chocolate cheese is a perishable item, so it should be shipped promptly to maintain its freshness. Many retailers, such as Frankenmuth Cheese Haus, only ship perishable items from Monday to Wednesday to ensure that the products arrive before the weekend. This schedule may vary depending on the location and the shipping methods used.
To maintain the quality of chocolate cheese during shipping, it is essential to control the temperature. Extreme heat temperatures in summer, for example, can impact the freshness of the product, and some shipments may need to be delayed or packaged with cooling elements to mitigate this issue. Similarly, in regions with hot climates, it is advisable to opt for overnight delivery to reduce the time the product is exposed to high temperatures.
In terms of storage, chocolate cheese should be kept in a cool, dry place. While it does not necessarily need to be refrigerated, storing it in a refrigerator can extend its shelf life. Proper storage conditions will vary depending on the specific ingredients and production methods used for the chocolate cheese, so it is always a good idea to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
When storing chocolate cheese, it is also important to consider the potential for odour transfer. As a pungent food item, chocolate cheese can absorb other odours from its surroundings, which may negatively impact its flavour. Therefore, it is recommended to store it in an airtight container or well-sealed packaging to minimise odour absorption and maintain its unique flavour profile.
Lastly, it is worth noting that chocolate cheese is often considered a specialty or unique product, and as such, it may not be available for online ordering or large-scale production. Some retailers, like Shullsburg Creamery, sell chocolate cheese by the pound in their physical stores, requiring customers to call and check availability before purchasing. This limited availability may impact the shipping and storage considerations, as customers may need to plan their purchases in advance and be mindful of the product's shelf life.
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Serving suggestions
Chocolate cheese is a unique treat with a creamy texture and a sweet flavour. It can be a perfect snack for those mid-afternoon sugar cravings and can be served in a variety of ways.
Chocolate cheese can be paired with crackers, wafers, and fresh fruits. For a more indulgent snack, it can be enjoyed with peanut butter or popcorn. For a more balanced approach, it can be served with nuts, especially almonds.
Chocolate cheese can also be used in baking. It can be added to a brownie mix for a cheesecake-style swirl, or grated over desserts to add a chocolatey twist. It can also be melted and spread on a croissant, or heated up and served with marshmallows.
For a fun and creative dinner party idea, chocolate cheese can be served on a cheeseboard with sweet and savoury pairings, such as jellies and pickles. This can be a great way to surprise and intrigue your guests, especially when served with a glass of sweet Moscato wine.
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Frequently asked questions
Chocolate cheese is a fudge-like treat made by blending chocolate milk, cream, and cultures to create a rich, sweet, and mildly nutty flavor.
Chocolate cheese is made from a combination of chocolate fudge, cream cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, cocoa, and Monterey Jack cheese.
Chocolate cheese can be purchased from specialty cheese shops, such as Shullsburg Creamery and Shisler's Cheese House, or made at home using recipes found online.
