Wisconsin Dominates World Cheese Awards 2023

Award winning cheeses

Wisconsin cheese artisans won 25% of all awards at the 2023 World Cheese Awards in Norway, showcasing their cheesemaking excellence globally. Highlighted by Marieke Gouda’s success, Wisconsin’s rich cheese legacy and diverse, high-quality cheeses stood out among international competitors. This achievement underlines Wisconsin’s significant role in the cheese industry. Wisconsin Cheese Artisans Shine at World … Read more

The Perfect Melt for Mozzarella Cheese

Melted mozzarella

How to Master Melting Mozzarella Cheese Mozzarella may not melt due to high moisture content or low fat. Low-moisture, high-fat mozzarella or specifically designed pizza mozzarella melts better, avoiding soggy outcomes. Pre-shredded varieties, convenient for even melting, might alter taste due to added starch. For optimal melt, choose the right type based on moisture and … Read more

Curdling Agents: The Heart of Cheese-Making!

Traditional cheese making equipment

Traditional Cheese Curdling Agents: From Milk to Delicacy Traditional cheese curdling agents include rennet, lemon juice, and vinegar, essential for transforming milk into cheese by coagulating its proteins into curds. These agents are pivotal in artisanal cheese-making, contributing to the distinctive textures and flavors of various cheeses. Rennet, derived from the stomachs of ruminant animals, … Read more

Cheese Feast: The Ultimate Guide to Mozzarella on Your Pizza

A ball of mozzarella and a slice of pizza

Cheesy Choices: Unlocking the Mozzarella Mystique for Perfect Pizzas Mozzarella and pizza mozzarella differ in moisture content and texture. Traditional mozzarella is softer with higher moisture, while pizza mozzarella, or low-moisture mozzarella, is firmer, making it better for baking on pizzas due to its lower moisture level. Pizza mozzarella melts well, prevents soggy crusts, and … Read more

Are Cheez-Its Real Cheese? (A Crunchy Conundrum Explored)

A bowl of Cheez-Its and cheese sauce

Biting Into the Crispy Debate Cheez-Its are made with 100% real cheese, primarily Cheddar, combined with skim milk and other ingredients. Despite containing real cheese, they are high in fat and sodium, making them less healthy. Artificial flavors and colors are also used. Enjoy Cheez-Its as an occasional snack rather than a healthy choice. Is … Read more

Bagel Benefits: Are They a Healthier Choice Over Donuts?

A collage of bagels and toppings

Bagel Bites: Healthier Than a Donut or Not? A bagel with cream cheese is generally healthier than a donut, offering more fiber, carbohydrates, calcium, and protein, with lower sugar levels. Opt for wholegrain bagels and moderate cream cheese for a healthier choice. Moderation is key for both options. What Are the Nutritional Differences Between a … Read more

Abbaye de Belloc: Behind the Scenes of Trappist Cheesemaking

Monks making cheese

Abbaye de Belloc Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Monastic Tradition Abbaye de Belloc cheese, made by Trappist monks using local Manech sheep milk, undergoes traditional curdling, pressing, brining, and aging. This process, alongside unique feeding practices for the sheep, contributes to the cheese’s earthy, hazelnut flavor and firm texture. Monks’ meticulous methods preserve ancient … Read more

Runny Cream Cheese Buttercream? No More! Unlock the Fixes You Need

A large cake with cream cheese buttercream

Cream Cheese Buttercream Woes: Why Is It Running Away? Cream cheese buttercream may turn runny due to warm temperatures, incorrect ingredient ratios, or overmixing. Using room temperature, high-quality, full-fat cream cheese and unsalted butter, along with precise measurement of ingredients, helps maintain a stable, smooth consistency. Does the Temperature of Cream Cheese Buttercream Turn It … Read more