How is Double Cream Brie Made?

Brie is a classic cheese known for its creamy texture and delicate flavor. However, when it comes to double cream brie, the rich taste takes on a whole new level of indulgence. Cream brie, in particular, boasts a fat content of around 60 to 75 percent. A Canadian company has even introduced a variant called double cream brie with a fat content of 72 percent, further enhancing its creamy and delicious profile.

The Process of Making Double Cream Brie

Step 1: Selecting the Milk

The process begins with selecting the finest milk. Typically, double cream brie is made from cow's milk, known for its rich and creamy texture. The milk is then processed in a way that separates a portion of the cream from the milk.

Step 2: Skimming and Mixing

A key step in making double cream brie is the separation of milk and cream. Two batches of milk are taken - one that is skimmed and another that retains the cream. The cream is then added to the skimmed milk, increasing the fat content to achieve that rich and indulgent flavor.

Step 3: Cheese Formation

Once the milk and cream mixture is prepared, it is allowed to coagulate, forming curds. These curds are then cheese, traditionally formed into the distinctive shape of double cream brie. The blocks of cheese are then salted and sometimes coagulated with a bacterial culture to enhance its flavor.

Step 4: Aging and Maturity

Unlike regular brie, double cream brie takes a longer time to mature. This extended aging process allows the cheese to develop a more complex and intense flavor. The high fat content of the cheese means it requires a longer period to ripen, leading to a richer and more flavorful final product. Because of this, double cream brie is typically served more like a soft dessert cheese than a cheese intended for cooking.

Why Double Cream Brie is Special

Double cream brie stands out from other types of brie due to its high fat content. The process of combining cream with milk not only increases the fat content but also enhances the creamy texture, making it a favorite among cheese enthusiasts looking for an indulgent, rich experience.

The rich and creamy nature of double cream brie also means it melts beautifully, making it a perfect choice for certain recipes. However, because of its high fat content and softer texture, it's essential to store it properly to maintain its quality. Keeping it at the right temperature and wrapping it in cheese paper or waxed paper can help prolong its freshness.

Conclusion: Enjoying Double Cream Brie

In conclusion, double cream brie is a unique and luxurious cheese that offers a superior creamy texture and rich flavor. Its production process, involving careful blending of cream and milk, results in a cheese that requires a longer aging period. This extended maturation produces a cheese that is deeply flavored and rich in texture, making it a true indulgence for any cheese connoisseur.

Whether enjoyed on its own as a treat or included in a feast, double cream brie is a testament to the art of cheese-making. It's a testament to the skill and passion of artisans who create such delights, offering a taste experience that is both unique and unforgettable.