My sister loves Brie cheese. She puts it on everything! She puts it in her sandwiches, salads, and pasta. But like most cheeses, it spoils easily. Aside from this, it is a rare and expensive find. My sister ends up using a different type of cheese. She has constantly asked me for a way to preserve it. Can you freeze Brie cheese?
According to the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, cheese is the most flexible food, in the sense that it can fit into almost any meal plan. This makes it an excellent staple in one’s kitchen. However, cheese and other dairy products usually come with a ‘best before’ tag. Most people are unable to consume their cheese and the like before the expiry date. Therefore, these items often end up in the dumpster.
But fear not! There is a way to preserve it! Unlike most cheeses, Brie cheese could be frozen! However, one has to be very careful in following the freezing process to ensure the freshness of the product.
Can You Freeze Brie Cheese?
Brie is a soft cheese made from whole or semi-skimmed cow’s milk. It is named after a region in France, from which it was invented. It has a pale white color under a thin layer of mold (also called a rind). It is often confused with Camembert cheese which also originates from France. But what distinguishes Brie from Camembert is the rind. Camembert is usually cut from larger wheels hence most do not have a rind.
It is usually used, as you’ve earlier mentioned, in salads, sandwiches and the like. It is a very good source of protein and vitamins B12 and B2. Aside from Brie cheese, the hard cheeses are the best ones to freeze like Cheddar, Mozzarella, Edam, Parmesan, Swiss, and Camembert. Meanwhile, it is not a good idea to freeze soft cheese like Cottage cheese and Ricotta cheese.
Although freezing the brie cheese extends its shelf life, it does not fully preserve the taste and the texture of the product. Some experienced chefs say that once Brie cheese is frozen, it is best used only for cooking. When thawed, Brie cheese could taste a little bland and it would feel a bit crumbly or grainy in the mouth.
It is also advised to only freeze Brie cheese once. Do not thaw all the frozen cheese at once. Only thaw what you need for the day.
Also, be aware though soft and runny cheeses like brie cheese should ideally only be stored for a month. Meanwhile, hard cheeses, if properly frozen could be stored for three to six months.
Here are the steps to freeze Brie cheese
- Cut the cheese into smaller triangular pieces. This is an important step because, as early mentioned, you can’t refreeze cheese.
- Wrap the smaller triangular cheese pieces in plastic wrap. Wrap it again to make sure that none of the parts is exposed to air. Repeat the process until all the triangular cheese pieces are firmly wrapped
- Place all the wrapped cheese pieces in a re-sealable storage bag. Deflate and squeeze out all the air from the bag. Air is your biggest enemy when preserving food as air often carries with it microorganisms that might cause spoilage.
- Do not forget to write the date when the cheese was frozen.
- Place the cheese in the freezer. Make sure that it is not squashed or crushed by the other contents.
Brie Cheese is often called the ‘Queen of Cheese’. To add to your sister’s list of Brie cheese recipes, here are some of our personal favorites!
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Brie Cheese?
Brie cheese is a soft, creamy cheese that is often used in appetizers and main dishes. It’s rich and flavorful, making it a favorite among many. But what do you do when you have extra brie cheese? Here are five delicious ways to use up your leftover brie cheese:
- Make brie en croute – Brie en croute is a French dish that consists of brie cheese wrapped in puff pastry and baked. It’s easy to make and can be served as an appetizer or main dish.
- Make a brie and fruit tart – This tart combines the sweetness of fruit with the creaminess of brie cheese. It’s perfect for a light lunch or summertime dessert.
- Make brie and bacon grilled cheese – This grilled cheese sandwich is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The combination of brie cheese and bacon is truly delicious.
- Make a brie quesadilla – This cheesy quesadilla is packed with flavor. Simply add some brie cheese, veggies, and spices to a tortilla and grill until golden brown.
- Make brie mac and cheese – This creamy mac and cheese is made even better with the addition of brie cheese. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly day.
So there you have it – five delicious ways to use up your leftover brie cheese. Next time you find yourself with extra cheese, try one of these recipes and enjoy!
Baked Stuffed Brie filled with Cranberries and Walnuts
This recipe is a twist to your typical baked stuff pie. The cranberries and walnuts complement the subtle nutty and fruity taste of Brie cheese! It’s very easy to make and perfect for afternoon teas and picnics. You can find the recipe here:
Grilled Brie and Pear Sandwich
Who knew cheese and pear would be a perfect combination? Bump up your breakfast with this sweet and tangy cheese sandwich! The recipe could be found here:
Cranberry Brie Cheese Dip
Brie Cheese is not only great in savory dishes, but it’s also great in desserts. This recipe is perfect for the holidays. It is quick and easy to make plus it’s a great way to increase your intake of Vitamin C. Watch how to make it here:
Wrap Up
Yes, you can freeze brie cheese. Frozen Brie Cheese will last for 2-3 months in the freezer if stored properly. Here is how to do it: Remove all of the extra packaging and place wrapped brie into a freezer bag. Seal tightly and put in the freezer (remember to label your bag with today’s date).
Now that you know how to freeze your brie cheese, please share your experience with me in the comment below.
