Who doesn’t like a bagel with cream cheese for breakfast? Have you considered Neufchatel? These two types of cheese are often used interchangeably, but do you know the distinctions between them?
In this post, we’ll look at what Neufchatel and cream cheese have in common as well as how they vary!
Contents
What Is Neufchatel Cheese?
Neufchatel is a soft, matured cow’s milk cheese from the French town of Neufchatel-en-Bray. This cheese typically ripens over a period of 6 to 10 weeks. The American Neufchatel, on the other hand, includes milk and cream, similar to cream cheese.
This cheese resembles Camembert in appearance, since it has a white, dry rind. It has a salty, sharp, and somewhat sweet taste. Neufchatel is often found in a heart form, however it may also be found in a box or as a log.
American Neufchatel is lower in fat and may be used as a low-fat substitute for cream cheese. Neufchatel is also available in the United States under the brand name Farmers Cheese. Neufchatel is also often used as a spread with bread, crackers, and bagels.
Nutrition Facts
The nutritional composition (*) of one packet (85 g) of Neufchatel is as follows:
- 215 calories
- 53.6 g water
- 7.78 g protein
- 19.4 g fat
- 1.24 g carbohydrate
- 3.05 g fiber
- 2.71 g sugar
- 99.4 mg calcium
- 8.5 mg magnesium
- 117 mg phosphorus
- 129 mg potassium
- 284 mg sodium
- 11.9 g folate
- 205 g vitamin A
Is Neufchatel Healthy?
Cheese is good for your health since it contains calcium, protein, and other vitamins and minerals. However, not all cheese is created equal, and you should be aware of the hazards and advantages. Neufchatel is a high-fat cheese, however it does have certain benefits.
Neufchatel has 19.4 grams of fat per package, which is more than some varieties of cheese but lower than others. Because it has less fat than conventional cream cheese, you may substitute it in some instances. You may spread it on toast, crackers, and other foods exactly like cream cheese.
This cheese is also high in calcium, which is an important mineral. Our bodies need calcium for bone mineralization and bone strength. Calcium also helps in neuronal communication in the body.
Neufchatel has less calories than other soft cheeses, at 71.7 calories per ounce. This means you may use it without hesitation in the morning. However, bear in mind that when used in big quantities, this cheese adds calories and fat.
Phosphorus, potassium, and sodium are also found in Neufchatel. Phosphorus is a mineral that is essential for cell health and metabolic functions. Potassium is not as common in diet as many people believe, yet it is an important mineral for brain conduction and cell homeostasis.
While salt is not necessarily a desirable thing in cheese, Neufchatel contains very little, making it healthier than its competitors. To get the best advantages, choose a typical French Neufchatel that has been aged longer and has less fat. Although it is a decent alternative for cream cheese, American Neufchatel includes more sugar and fat.
What Is Cream Cheese?
Cream cheese is a creamy, sweet cheese made from cow’s milk and cream. Cream cheese typically has at least 33% fat from milk, no more than 55% moisture, and a pH between 4.4 and 4.9. Cream cheese, unlike Neufchatel, is not aged at all.
This soft cheese originated in the United States and first appears in recipes in the 18th century. Philadelphia and New York became the nation’s leading producers of cream cheese. You may be familiar with Kraft’s iconic cream cheese brand Philadelphia, which is marketed all over the world.
Cream cheese is usually served with bagels, toast, crackers, and even smoked salmon for breakfast. This cheese is frequently used in sweets like as cheesecake and red velvet cake icing. Cream cheese is used in several savory dishes, such as mashed potatoes and sushi rolls.
Nutrition Facts
The nutritional composition (*) of one package (85 g) of cayenne pepper is as follows:
- 298 calories
- 44.7 g water
- 5.23 g protein
- 29.3 g fat
- 4.69 g carbohydrate
- 0 g fiber
- 3.2 g sugar
- 82.4 mg calcium
- 7.65 mg magnesium
- 91 mg phosphorus
- 112 mg potassium
- 267 mg sodium
- 7.65 g folate
- 262 g vitamin A
Is Cream Cheese Healthy?
Cream cheese is a common food in the United States, however it is rich in fat and sugar. This cheese is often healthier to ingest and a better option than other varieties of cheese. However, you must exercise caution not to overdo it.
One container of cream cheese has 29.3 grams of fat, which is somewhat more than other cheeses. It has less fat than rich cheeses like provolone or fontina. Low-fat cream cheese substitutes are also available.
Cream cheese, like Neufchatel, is high in calcium, with 82.4 mg per box. Calcium is necessary for healthy and strong bones, as you already know. Cream cheese also contains more calcium than other forms of cheese.
Cream cheese, on the other hand, includes phosphorus, potassium, and salt. Phosphorus and potassium are minerals that serve as electrolytes in our bodies.
While salt may be useful, be mindful that cream cheese has a high sodium concentration that might be hazardous in the long run.
Unlike Neufchatel, one ounce of cream cheese has 99.2 calories. This is more than Neufchatel, but yet less than several other cheeses. Cream cheese may be consumed in moderation without any difficulty.
Cream cheese is a pretty sweet cheese, so keep the sugar level in mind. Because of this, this sort of cheese is used in various sweets, dips, and sauces, although it should be used in moderation. When using cream cheese, keep an eye out for extra salt, fat, and calories.
What Are The Key Differences Between Neufchatel and Cream Cheese?
The origin of Neufchatel and cream cheese is one of the most noticeable variances. Neufchatel derives its name from the French town of Neufchatel-en-Bray. Cream cheese was invented in the Philadelphia and New York City regions.
Another distinction is the components found in any of these varieties of cheese. Only cow’s milk is used in the production of French Neufchatel. American Neufchatel and cream cheese, on the other hand, include both milk and cream.
These two types of cheese are not the same in terms of consistency. Neufchatel is often presented in the form of a heart, and it is gritty with an aged crust. Although cream cheese is presented as a solid block, it is very soft and mushy.
The fat level is perhaps the most noticeable variation between these two varieties of cheese. Neufchatel has a total fat content of 20 to 23%. Cream cheese comprises around 33% milk fat and 55% moisture.
These two types of cheese are also not produced in the same manner. Neufchatel cheese is matured for around 10 weeks, resulting in a stronger taste and less fat. Cream cheese is fresh, which means it has not been matured in any way.
You should also keep in mind that these two forms of cheese do not have the same aroma. Neufchatel is a strong-smelling cheese, similar to Camembert. Cream cheese may have a scent when spices or herbs are added to it, but it normally has a neutral aroma.
Finally, Neufchatel and cream cheese are used in various ways. Neufchatel is often served as a spread with bread, crackers, or bagels. Cream cheese may be used as a spread, but it can also be used to sauces, potatoes, desserts, and other dishes.
| Main Differences | Neufchatel | Cream Cheese |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Neufchâtel-en-Bray, France | Philadelphia and New York City, USA |
| Production | This cheese is made from cow’s milk, which is then matured for 6 to 10 weeks until ripened. | This cheese is made from cow’s milk and cream. It is consumed fresh but is pasteurized before packaging. |
| Color | White, light beige | White |
| Taste and Smell | Neufchatel tastes creamy, tangy, and sharp. The aroma is strong, a bit pungent, and nutty. | Cream cheese tastes sweet, salty, and slightly tart. The aroma is subtle but can vary depending on any added herbs or spices. |
| Uses | Neufchatel is served as a spread that people eat with crackers, bread, or bagels. | Cream cheese is served as a spread too for bread, bagels, or crackers. It is also used in desserts, sauces, and potatoes. |
| Cost | $1.50 to $12.99 | $0.89 to $5.99 |
| Calories per 100ml | 253 calories | 350 calories |
Is Neufchatel or Cream Cheese Healthier?
Neufchatel and cream cheese are both healthful alternatives for breakfast and other spreads. Neufchatel, on the other hand, has less calories and fat. Cream cheese may also include more sugar.
To be healthy, choose Neufchatel wherever feasible. However, the American Neufchatel version may likewise be heavy in calories and fat, so prefer the French variety wherever feasible. If none of them are available, cream cheese is a safe bet.
Remember that cream cheese is beneficial in a variety of scenarios, but Neufchatel is not. Cream cheese may be used in sweets, icing, and sauces, but Neufchatel is too strong. Choose one based on dietary information as well as your cooking requirements.
Conclusion
You’ll never have to worry what kind of cheese to acquire again while you’re at the grocery store. Choose either Neufchatel or cream cheese from the dairy section and use them as desired. However, depending on the taste profile of the meal, you may select either.
See more:
- Can cream cheese be frozen?
- How long is cream cheese good for?
- Replacement for cream cheese
*image by philipimage/depositphotos
