Description
This Homemade Cheese Recipe allows you to craft fresh, creamy cheese right in your own kitchen using simple ingredients like whole milk and lemon juice or vinegar. It’s perfect for those who love wholesome, additive-free dairy and want a customizable, rewarding kitchen project that delivers delightful flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh whole milk
- 2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar (adjust as needed)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Optional Add-ins
- Fresh chopped herbs (dill, basil, chives) for herbed cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes or black pepper for a spicy version
- Minced garlic for garlic-infused cheese
- Plant-based milk (for vegan alternative, adjust acid accordingly)
- Additional spices or flavorings like smoked paprika, nuts, or sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: Pour fresh whole milk into a heavy-bottomed pot and gently heat it over medium heat until it reaches about 185°F (85°C), stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add Acid to Curdle: Remove the pot from heat and slowly stir in lemon juice or vinegar, watching as the milk begins to separate into curds (solid) and whey (liquid).
- Let It Sit: Allow the mixture to rest undisturbed for 10-15 minutes so curds fully form, developing the texture essential to soft cheese.
- Drain the Curds: Line a colander with cheesecloth and carefully pour in the curds and whey, letting the liquid drain off naturally for about 30 minutes or until your desired consistency is reached.
- Season and Shape: Transfer the curds into a bowl, sprinkle salt to taste, and gently mix. Then shape the cheese by pressing into molds or simply forming rounds by hand before refrigerating.
- Chill and Serve: Wrap the cheese and refrigerate for at least two hours to firm up and allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use fresh whole milk for best creaminess and flavor.
- Maintain precise heating temperature (around 185°F/85°C) to ensure proper curdling.
- Allow adequate draining time for desirable cheese texture.
- Adjust salt and spices incrementally to achieve balance.
- Try both lemon juice and vinegar to find preferred acid flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg