How to Make Cream Cheese: A Simple Guide
Cream cheese is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from bagels and lox to desserts and dips. If you’ve ever wondered how to make cream cheese at home, you’re in luck! This simple guide will walk you through the process of creating your own batch of creamy, tangy cream cheese.
Ingredients
To make cream cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 4 cups of heavy cream
– 1 cup of whole milk
– 1 packet of active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup of buttermilk
Instructions
1. Begin by heating the heavy cream and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture reaches a temperature of 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius). This is the ideal temperature for activating the yeast.
2. In a separate bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk and cream mixture. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the yeast starts to foam.
3. Add the sugar, butter, salt, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Stir until the butter is melted and all the ingredients are well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a large mixing bowl and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This process is known as proofing.
5. Once the mixture has proofed, transfer it to a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Mix on low speed for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
6. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it sit in a warm place for about 8 hours, or until it has doubled in size again. This is another proofing process, which will help develop the flavor of the cream cheese.
7. After the second proofing, remove the cream cheese from the bowl and place it on a clean surface. Knead it gently for a few minutes to remove any air bubbles.
8. Shape the cream cheese into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until it has reached your desired consistency.
9. Once the cream cheese has chilled, you can use it in your favorite recipes or enjoy it on its own with a sprinkle of salt or a drizzle of honey.
Conclusion
Making cream cheese at home is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to control the quality and flavor of your final product. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy homemade cream cheese in no time. Happy cooking!
