23 Creamy, Dreamy Ways to Use Mascarpone (2024)

Ever tried a new mascarpone recipe, only to find yourself left with a mostly full carton left over? We’ve all been there. But while you wonder what to do with that mascarpone, don’t—we repeat, don’t—let it waste away in the fridge. You can use this thick, tangy spread (essentially the Italian version of cream cheese) in countless sweet or savory dishes. Anywhere cream cheese or sour cream can go, so can mascarpone.

Typically made by heating heavy cream with citric acid or lemon juice, mascarpone cheese has a higher fat content than American cream cheese (about 60–75%, compared to around 33%). This makes the creamy spread an excellent choice for no-bake cheesecake recipes, frostings, and mousses, as it provides more structure and body than other dairy products. But the uses for mascarpone extend past the sweet realm: Finish pasta sauces with a dollop of the stuff for extra silkiness, or add it to lasagna for an ultra-creamy, velvety filling.

We even have instructions for making your very own mascarpone cheese—it’s easier than you might think. And if you’re still looking for ideas on how to use mascarpone, there’s always the option of smearing it on crackers or seedy toast. Maybe add a dollop of jam, maybe not—this tangy cheese can shine all on its own.

23 Creamy, Dreamy Ways to Use Mascarpone (2024)

FAQs

What can I use mascarpone for? ›

Best mascarpone recipes
  • Salted caramel mascarpone cheesecake pots.
  • Cannoli.
  • Vanilla and raspberry mascarpone loaf cake.
  • Tomato, spinach and mascarpone gnocchi.
  • Pesto greens and three-cheese lasagne.
  • Spinach, mascarpone and ham hock rotolo.
  • Classic tiramisu.
  • Butternut squash, spinach and mascarpone lasagne.

Can you eat mascarpone by itself? ›

Mascarpone cheese isn't very good to eat by itself (imagine eating a spoonful of butter), but it is perfect to use as an ingredient for savory and dessert recipes alike. Next time you want to try out a recipe calling for mascarpone cheese, give this recipe a try!

How long does mascarpone last once opened? ›

A closed package of mascarpone will last in the fridge until its best-by date. If you've already opened it, the clock starts ticking, and you have around 1 week to use it all up.

Can you eat mascarpone on crackers? ›

And if you're still looking for ideas on how to use mascarpone, there's always the option of smearing it on crackers or seedy toast. Maybe add a dollop of jam, maybe not—this tangy cheese can shine all on its own.

Can I eat mascarpone directly? ›

Mascarpone cheese seems to be more of a cooking ingredient than something consumed raw, even if it can easily act as any other spreadable cheese.

Can you eat mascarpone straight? ›

Straight up: Spoon some Mascarpone into a small bowl, drizzle with honey, and scatter some fresh fruit on top. This creamy and buttery cheese also makes a great dip for strawberries, raspberries, or any other seasonal fruit.

Is mascarpone healthier than cream cheese? ›

No, mascarpone cheese is not healthier than cream cheese as it contains 25% more fat than cream cheese. Yet mascarpone cheese is only preferred for its extra smooth texture. You can use cream cheese and mascarpone cheese for salty and sweet dishes.

Should mascarpone be refrigerated? ›

Storage. Mascarpone generally comes in tubs, and it should remain refrigerated.

What is special about mascarpone? ›

Mascarpone contains 70 to 75% milk fat, giving it a smooth, creamy texture and pale ivory color. Unlike other cheeses, mascarpone is made by coagulating cream (rather than milk) with acid and heating it.

Can I freeze leftover mascarpone? ›

The important thing is to keep it in an airtight container and use it within a reasonable time, usually 3-5 days after opening. In addition, you can freeze mascarpone in smaller portions if you do not want to use it immediately.

What animal is mascarpone from? ›

Mascarpone is a triple-creme cheese made from fresh cream. Traditionally, this was made from the fresh milk of cows that have grazing pastures filled with fresh herbs and flowers. The freshest milk is still the best best option but a great Mascarpone can also be made with cream from the store.

What does mascarpone taste like? ›

What Does Mascarpone Taste Like? Mascarpone cheese is often compared to cream cheese, ricotta cheese, crème fraiche, and clotted cream; however, mascarpone is a sweeter and less tangy product than its peers. Mascarpone is slightly sweet with a hint of acidity.

How do Italians eat mascarpone? ›

Mascarpone isn't just for panettone or tiramisù. Slathered on crostini or whipped into spaghetti, it's more sumptuous than butter — add a little sugar, and it's even more enticing than cream.

What's the difference between mascarpone and mascarpone cream? ›

You might have heard mascarpone referred to as mascarpone cream. The difference between mascarpone cheese and cream is mascarpone cream is made from mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar that are whipped together. The result is the whipped topping that's used to make tiramisu.

Can you over mix mascarpone? ›

If you overmix this cream, it will curdle and will ruin the creaminess of this cream. Let the mascarpone cheese come to room temperature before mixing, it will incorporate a lot easier.

What is mascarpone cheese good for? ›

Bake it into a cheesecake or swap it for sour cream in banana bread or muffins. For a savory use, add mascarpone to pasta sauce or use it in place of cream in nearly any dish. It can also be used to thicken soups, stuff chicken breasts, and as a bagel spread.

Is mascarpone cheese just cream cheese? ›

Mascarpone is categorized as a cream cheese, but it is different than what we know as “cream cheese” in America. Mascarpone is made similarly to American cream cheese, but it uses a base of whole cream rather than milk. Like cream cheese, it is a fresh cheese that is not aged before it is eaten.

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