The Surprising Truth About Cheesecake Flavors and Cheese

Ever wondered why cheesecake doesn't taste like cheese, despite the name suggesting it does? This is an interesting question that many food enthusiasts ponder over, especially those who are familiar with the distinct flavors of various types of cheese. To unravel this mystery, we will explore the different types of cheese used in cheesecakes, the role of other ingredients, and how cheesecake's unique flavor profile is achieved.

Decoding the Cheese in Cheesecake

Let's begin by addressing the elephant in the room: why does cheesecake not taste like cheese? The answer lies in the type of cheese used in cheesecakes and the other ingredients that are mixed with it. Unlike the traditional aged and pressed cheeses that you might recognize from your kitchen pantry, cheesecakes use fresh, cream cheese, which is surprisingly light and less overpowering.

Cream Cheese vs. Cottage Cheese and Ricotta

When making a simple cheese taste test, you can start by preparing a batch of cottage cheese or ricotta. Add a bit of honey or sugar along with some vanilla extract and lemon juice to your mixture. Blend the ingredients until smooth and then taste it. The result is a sweet, creamy mixture that highlights flavors beyond cheese – a flavor profile that is more in line with what we find in cheesecake.

For a more definitive test, compare this mixture to actual cheesecakes. True cheesecakes are often made with cream cheese, not cottage cheese or ricotta. If you include the cream cheese (or another fresh cheese like mascarpone) in your mixture, you get a taste that is much closer to cheesecake. The cream cheese, being fresher and milder, blends seamlessly with other sweet and tangy flavors, giving cheesecake its characteristic taste.

The Role of Other Ingredients

The unique taste of cheesecake also comes from the other ingredients added to the cheese. Hampton Creek Journal explains that there are multiple factors that contribute to the cheesecake flavor profile, including the use of ingredients like vanilla, sugar, and lemon juice. These ingredients not only sweeten the mixture but also enhance the texture and mouthfeel of the cheesecake, making it a delightful dessert experience.

The enzymes used in cheesecake production and the aging process of different cheeses also play a significant role. Andrew Schloss, the author of The CheeseぃCook, explains that cheese in cheesecakes is not aged for long periods like some other cheeses. This is because cream cheese, being a fresh cheese, has a higher water content and is meant to be consumed within a few months. It has a soft mouthfeel, which is exactly what you want in a cheesecake that is creamy and decadent.

Exploring the World of Cheeses

While the unique taste of cheesecake might surprise us, the sheer diversity of cheese can be just as fascinating. Sam Arora, a food science researcher from the University of Guelph in Canada and the University of Punjab in India, suggests attending a cheese festival to experience the vast variety of cheeses available. These festivals can showcase different flavors, textures, and uses of cheese, offering a deeper appreciation for this versatile food group.

Why Cream Cheese is Best for Cheesecakes

Cream cheese is often chosen for cheesecakes because it is a fresh, spreadable cheese that is perfect for toasts and bagels. Unlike other cured cheeses, such as cheddar or brie, cream cheese is not designed for long-range curing. This is why it is not overly developed "cheesy" flavors that might interfere with the fruit flavors of other ingredients in the cheesecake, such as strawberries or peaches.

In conclusion, although the name cheesecake suggests a strong cheese flavor, the use of fresh cream cheese, coupled with a carefully selected blend of other ingredients, creates a unique dessert that offers a sweet and creamy taste, far removed from the sharp and tangy flavors of traditional cheese.

Conclusion

Cheesecake's distinct taste is a testament to the versatility of cheese and the culinary creativity of chefs. Whether you are a cheese connoisseur or a casual dessert lover, there is much to be discovered in the world of cheesecake. So, the next time you enjoy a slice of cheesecake, take a moment to appreciate the journey that ingredients like cream cheese undergo to transform into a delicious dessert.

Explore the maze of flavors and textures at a cheese festival, or simply continue to savor the unique taste of cheesecake. The journey begins with a humble tub of cream cheese and ends in a world of wonderful flavors.