Creole Cream Cheese

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

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This homemade Creole cream cheese is a celebrated vegetarian staple, offering a unique tangy flavour and velvety texture that sits somewhere between cottage cheese and soured cream. Traditionally enjoyed in New Orleans, this artisan cheese relies on a slow fermentation process to develop its characteristic depth. By gently warming skimmed milk and buttermilk with rennet, you create a delicate curd that transforms into a versatile spread over several days.

Served chilled, it makes a protein-rich addition to your breakfast table and is traditionally paired with a splash of single cream and a dusting of sugar. It also works beautifully spread onto thick slices of toasted sourdough or served alongside fresh seasonal berries. Although it requires patience, the preparation is incredibly straightforward, resulting in a wholesome, shop-bought alternative free from artificial stabilisers.

Ingredients for Creole Cream Cheese

1.9L skimmed milk
60ml buttermilk
1 rennet tablet

How to make Creole Cream Cheese

In a large heavy-bottomed saucepot over medium heat with a kitchen thermometer attached to the rim, warm the milk and buttermilk to 29°C. Add one-quarter of the rennet tablet and transfer the mixture to a plastic container or bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and then poke a few holes in the plastic to allow the steam to escape. Let stand at room temperature in a cool spot in your house for 48 hours.

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the solids to a double layer of cheesecloth set over a bowl and discard the liquid. Wrap the solids in the cheesecloth and hang it over the bowl (to catch the whey) in the refrigerator for 24 hours.

Discard the whey. Pack the cheese into an airtight plastic container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.