Kraft Cheese
Creamy, homemade cheese spread with a smooth texture and mild flavor, perfect for spreading on bread or crackers, suited for cheese lovers seeking a DIY dairy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Work the soda into the very dry cheese curds.
- Melt butter in a pan.
- Add the cheese curds to the melted butter.
- Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and smooth.
- Add hot cream gradually, a little at a time.
- Add salt last.
- Pour the mixture into a box or pan suitable for slicing.
- Note that cheese making is delicate and may not always turn out perfectly.
- This cheese can be used as a spreading cheese if it doesn't attain a slicing consistency.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your cheese curds are very dry to achieve the right texture. If you don't have soda, try using baking powder as a substitute, though it may alter the flavor slightly. Stirring constantly is crucial for achieving a smooth consistency. If the mixture is too thick, add a bit more hot cream. This cheese is perfect for spreading on crackers or bread.
Serving Suggestions
Kraft cheese makes a delightful spread for sandwiches or a topping for baked potatoes. Serve it alongside fresh vegetables or crackers for a tasty appetizer. It also pairs beautifully with Hash Brown Potato Bake for a comforting meal. Consider using it in a cheese platter for entertaining guests or as a unique addition to a brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Kraft cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth consistency. Avoid overheating, as this could cause the cheese to become grainy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kraft Cheese contains roughly 333 calories, with 5g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (16% of the Daily Value) and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 966mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use shredded cheese instead of cheese curds?
While shredded cheese can be used in a pinch, it may not yield the same texture and flavor as very dry cheese curds. The curds help achieve a unique consistency that is key to this recipe. If you opt for shredded cheese, choose a high-quality variety and be prepared for a slightly different end result.
What can I do if my cheese doesn't melt smoothly?
If your cheese mixture doesn't melt smoothly, try adding more hot cream gradually while stirring over low heat. This can help loosen the cheese and create a smoother texture. If it remains lumpy, you could blend the mixture in a food processor for a creamier consistency.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to the butter?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the product you choose is suitable for your dietary needs. This will keep the recipe vegetarian-friendly while still providing the necessary fat for a smooth texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).