Laughing Cow Cheese Recipe

Laughing Cow Cheese is a creamy, smooth, and spreadable cheese known for its mild, slightly tangy flavor and soft texture. It’s often enjoyed as a snack, spread, or dip and is a favorite among cheese lovers for its versatility and light, creamy consistency.

This homemade version captures the same rich and creamy texture using simple, natural ingredients without additives or preservatives.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Smooth, Creamy, and Spreadable

• Perfect for spreading on crackers, toast, or bagels.

Made with Natural Ingredients

• No preservatives, artificial flavors, or additives.

Customizable for Different Flavors

• Add garlic, herbs, or spices for variety.

Healthier than Store-Bought

• Control the fat content and sodium levels to your preference.

Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

• Requires basic dairy products and minimal effort.

Other Recipes

• Chick-fil-A Sandwich
• Trader Joe’s Ezekiel Bread

What Is Laughing Cow Cheese?

Laughing Cow Cheese is a soft, creamy cheese spread made from cheese, milk, and emulsifiers, giving it a smooth, spreadable texture. It is commonly individually portioned in foil-wrapped wedges and can be eaten as-is or used in recipes.

Laughing Cow Cheese Ingredients

For the Base Cheese Mixture:

• 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese (shredded) – Provides the signature creamy texture.
• ½ cup cream cheese (softened) – Adds smoothness and tang.
• ¼ cup heavy cream or whole milk – Helps achieve a spreadable consistency.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice – Gives a slight tang, mimicking the original.
• ½ teaspoon unsalted butter (optional) – Adds extra richness.

For the Emulsifying Agent (to Keep It Creamy):

• 1 teaspoon sodium citrate (preferred) OR ½ teaspoon cornstarch – Helps blend and stabilize the cheese mixture.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Laughing Cow Cheese

Step 1: Melt the Cheese Mixture

1. In a heatproof bowl, combine shredded cheddar, cream cheese, milk, and butter.
2. Place the bowl over a double boiler (or a heat-safe bowl over a saucepan of simmering water).
3. Stir continuously until the cheeses begin to melt.

Step 2: Add Emulsifier for Smoothness

1. Sprinkle sodium citrate or cornstarch over the melted mixture.
2. Stir constantly until the cheese becomes smooth, creamy, and lump-free.

Step 3: Blend for Extra Creaminess

1. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
2. Transfer to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth.
3. Add lemon juice and salt, blending again for even distribution.

Step 4: Chill and Set the Cheese

1. Pour the mixture into a small container or silicone mold.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow it to firm up.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Use as a spread for crackers, bagels, or toast.
• Melt into soups, sauces, or pasta dishes for extra creaminess.
• Pack into small portions for easy snacking.

What to Serve with Laughing Cow Cheese

Classic Pairings

• Crackers or rice cakes – A perfect light snack.
• Sliced cucumbers and carrots – A refreshing, crunchy contrast.
• Toast or bagels – A creamy and satisfying breakfast spread.

Savory Additions

• Olives and sun-dried tomatoes – A Mediterranean twist.
• Deli turkey or ham slices – Great for a protein-packed snack.

Sweet Combinations

• Honey drizzle and walnuts – Adds a sweet, nutty balance.
• Apple or pear slices – A naturally sweet contrast.

Expert Tips for Mastering Laughing Cow Cheese

Use Sodium Citrate for the Best Creaminess

• Sodium citrate prevents separation and keeps the cheese silky-smooth.

Blend for a Super Smooth Texture

• Using a blender or immersion blender ensures no lumps remain.

Let It Chill for a Firm Consistency

• Refrigeration helps the cheese set into the perfect spreadable texture.

Adjust the Flavor to Your Preference

• Add garlic powder, herbs, or smoked paprika for variations.

Variations of Laughing Cow Cheese

Garlic & Herb Laughing Cow Cheese

• Stir in ½ teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon fresh chopped parsley before chilling.

Spicy Pepper Jack Version

• Use ½ cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Vegan Laughing Cow Cheese

• Replace dairy with cashew cream (blended cashews, lemon juice, and coconut milk) and use nutritional yeast for cheesiness.

Parmesan & Italian Herb Blend

• Add 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan and ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning for an extra savory touch.

Extra Creamy Laughing Cow Cheese

• Increase cream cheese by ¼ cup and blend longer for ultra-smoothness.

How to Store Laughing Cow Cheese?

Refrigerate for Up to 7 Days

• Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freeze for Up to 2 Months

• Portion into small silicone molds or ice cube trays, then freeze.

Reheat for a Smooth Texture

• If the cheese hardens too much, warm it slightly in the microwave for 10 seconds.

Nutrition Value (Per 1 Tablespoon Serving)

• Calories: 60
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 5g
• Sodium: 90mg

FAQs

How do you make Laughing Cow Cheese?

To make Laughing Cow Cheese at home, melt cheddar and cream cheese with milk, add sodium citrate or cornstarch, then blend until smooth and chill until set.

What makes Laughing Cow Cheese so creamy?

The combination of cream cheese, milk, and an emulsifier (like sodium citrate) ensures a smooth, spreadable texture.

Can I make Laughing Cow Cheese without sodium citrate?

Yes! Substitute with ½ teaspoon cornstarch, though sodium citrate creates the best consistency.

How long does Laughing Cow Cheese last?

Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze for 2 months.

Final Words

This Laughing Cow Cheese delivers the same creamy, spreadable goodness as the store-bought version—but with natural ingredients and no preservatives! Whether you’re enjoying it on crackers, veggies, or toast, this simple, customizable recipe is the perfect way to enjoy fresh, smooth cheese at home. Try it today and experience homemade cheese like never before!

Print