HOMEMADE MASCARPONE CHEESE – CREAMY ITALIAN DELICACY FOR DESSERTS AND SAUCES
What is it? Mascarpone is a rich, creamy Italian cheese made from sweet cream. It’s the essential base for classic desserts like Tiramisu, decadent creams (try it in cocoa crepes), and luxurious pasta sauces.
Why make it? Because it’s easy to prepare at home, tastes just like store-bought, and is much more affordable. Commercial mascarpone costs about 15 lei per 250 g, while homemade yields 300 g for roughly 8 lei—a smart and delicious choice!
🕒 Prep Time: 15 min + 12 hours chilling
🍰 Yields: Approx. 300 g mascarpone
🥄 Ingredients
- 500 ml sweet cream (whipping cream), pasteurized (avoid UHT/ultra-pasteurized)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
👩🍳 Instructions
- 🍲 Pour cream into a small saucepan and gently heat over low heat to 88°C (190°F).
- Without a thermometer: heat until small bubbles form around the edges—do not overheat. Stir constantly to prevent scorching. This takes about 10 minutes.
- 🍋 Add lemon juice and continue to cook gently at 88°C for 5 more minutes, stirring continuously. The cream will thicken, reaching a consistency similar to vanilla pudding.
- ❄️ Remove from heat and let the cream cool completely.
- 🧊 Line a fine mesh sieve with three layers of cheesecloth and place it over a bowl. Pour the thickened cream into the sieve.
- 🛑 Gather the edges of the cheesecloth loosely—do not squeeze—and refrigerate for 12 hours to drain.
- 🍶 After draining, transfer the mascarpone to a covered container. You’ll see about 2 tbsp of whey collected below.
- 🥄 Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
💡 Tips
- Use high-quality fresh cream for best flavor and texture.
- Stir continuously to prevent burning and ensure even heating.
- Don’t press the cheesecloth to keep the creamy texture.
🎉 Perfect For
- Classic Italian desserts (Tiramisu, cheesecakes)
- Creamy dessert fillings and frostings
- Rich pasta sauces and savory dishes
📝 Final Thoughts
Homemade mascarpone is a rich, silky, and versatile cheese that elevates both sweet and savory recipes. Making it at home saves money and guarantees freshness and authenticity.