Name: Boursin Cheese Homemade: The Ultimate Guide to Making It Yourself
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 135 min
Yield: 1 1/2 cups
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 4 ounces goat cheese, softened; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil, optional for drizzling

Boursin Cheese Homemade? Yes, you read that right! Forget those pricey trips to the grocery store because I'm about to share a secret that will revolutionize your cheese game. Imagine spreading a creamy, garlicky, and herb-infused delight on your favorite crusty bread, all made with your own two hands. This isn't just a recipe; it's an experience!

While Boursin cheese might feel like a modern delicacy, its roots trace back to the heart of Normandy, France. François Boursin, inspired by a traditional dish of fromage frais seasoned with herbs that he enjoyed at family gatherings, created the iconic Boursin we know and love in 1957. He sought to capture that rustic, flavorful experience in a convenient and commercially available form. And boy, did he succeed!

But why is Boursin so universally adored? It's the perfect storm of creamy texture, bold garlic flavor, and fragrant herbs. It elevates everything it touches, from crackers and vegetables to pasta sauces and omelets. Plus, its no-cook nature makes it a go-to for quick and elegant appetizers. Now, you can enjoy all of that, but with the satisfaction of knowing you created it yourself. This Boursin Cheese Homemade recipe is surprisingly simple, allowing you to customize the herbs and spices to your exact liking. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make cheese!

Ingredients:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 ounces goat cheese, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil, optional for drizzling

Preparing the Herbs and Garlic:

Okay, let's get started! The key to amazing Boursin cheese is the freshness and quality of the herbs. Don't skimp on this step! Fresh herbs are a must, and dried herbs just won't give you the same vibrant flavor. I promise, it's worth the extra effort.

Mince the Garlic: Start by mincing the garlic cloves as finely as possible. You want them to almost melt into the cheese mixture. If you have a garlic press, that works great too! The smaller the pieces, the better the flavor distribution.
Chop the Herbs: Next, it's time to chop all those lovely fresh herbs. Wash and thoroughly dry the chives, parsley, tarragon, and basil. Then, using a sharp knife, finely chop them. The finer the chop, the better they'll incorporate into the cheese. I like to use a rocking motion with my knife to get a really fine chop.
Prepare Dried Herbs: If you're using dried thyme and rosemary, crush the rosemary slightly between your fingers to release its oils. This will help to intensify the flavor.

Combining the Cheeses:

Now for the creamy, dreamy cheese base! This is where the magic really begins. Make sure your cream cheese and goat cheese are properly softened. This is crucial for a smooth and lump-free final product. Trust me, you don't want any stubborn lumps of cheese in your Boursin!

Soften the Cheeses: Take your cream cheese and goat cheese out of the refrigerator at least an hour before you plan to start. They should be soft enough that you can easily stir them with a spoon. If you're short on time, you can microwave them in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until softened. But be careful not to melt them!
Combine the Cheeses: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and goat cheese. Use a rubber spatula or a wooden spoon to mix them together until they are completely smooth and well combined. There should be no streaks of either cheese remaining.

Incorporating the Flavors:

This is where we bring all those wonderful flavors together! We're going to gently fold in the garlic, herbs, and spices into the cheese mixture. The goal is to distribute everything evenly without overmixing, which can make the cheese tough.

Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic, chopped chives, chopped parsley, chopped tarragon, chopped basil, dried thyme, and crushed rosemary to the cheese mixture.
Add Spices: Add the red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper, and sea salt to the bowl. Remember, you can always adjust the salt to your taste later, so it's best to start with a smaller amount.
Gently Fold: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold all the ingredients into the cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix. You want everything to be evenly distributed, but you don't want to work the cheese too much. Just keep folding until everything is nicely combined.

Chilling and Serving:

Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to Boursin cheese! Chilling the cheese allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. It also helps the cheese firm up, making it easier to spread. This step is essential for achieving that perfect Boursin texture and taste.

Shape the Cheese (Optional): At this point, you can shape the cheese into a log or a ball, if desired. Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap. Gently shape it into a log or a ball. Wrap the plastic wrap tightly around the cheese, twisting the ends to seal.
Chill the Cheese: Place the wrapped cheese in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to firm up.
Serve: When you're ready to serve, remove the cheese from the refrigerator and unwrap it. If you shaped it into a log or ball, you can leave it as is or slice it into rounds. Drizzle with olive oil (optional) and serve with crackers, baguette slices, vegetables, or fruit. I personally love it with crusty bread and a glass of wine!

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your homemade Boursin? Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Adjust the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Dill, oregano, or marjoram would all be delicious additions.
Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Finely chop some sun-dried tomatoes and add them to the cheese mixture for a burst of savory flavor.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use Different Cheeses: Try using a different type of goat cheese, such as a chevre with a stronger flavor. You could also add a little bit of feta cheese for a salty kick.
Make it Vegan: Use vegan cream cheese and vegan goat cheese alternatives to make a delicious vegan Boursin.
Garlic Lovers: If you're a garlic fanatic, roast the garlic before mincing it for a sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor.

Storage Instructions:

Homemade Boursin cheese will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions:

Boursin cheese is incredibly versatile! Here are just a few ways to enjoy it:

Spread on Crackers or Baguette: This is the classic way to enjoy Boursin cheese.
Serve with Vegetables: Offer it as a dip for carrots, celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
Add to Sandwiches or Wraps: Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for a creamy and flavorful addition.
Use in Pasta Dishes: Stir it into pasta dishes for a rich and creamy sauce.
Top Grilled Meats or Vegetables: Add a dollop of Boursin cheese to grilled meats or vegetables for extra flavor.
Stuff Chicken Breasts: Stuff chicken breasts with Boursin cheese for a delicious and impressive meal.
Make a Cheese Board: Include Boursin cheese on a cheese board with other cheeses, fruits, and nuts.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! Making your own Boursin Cheese Homemade is surprisingly simple, incredibly rewarding, and undeniably delicious. From the creamy texture to the burst of fresh herbs and garlic, this homemade version surpasses anything you can find in the store. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills – without spending hours in the kitchen.

But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the sheer deliciousness, it's about control. You get to choose the quality of your ingredients, ensuring a truly exceptional final product. You can use organic herbs, the freshest garlic, and the creamiest cream cheese available. Plus, you can tailor the flavor profile to your exact preferences. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Prefer a stronger garlic flavor? Go ahead and add an extra clove or two! The possibilities are endless, and that's what makes this recipe so special.

Now, let's talk serving suggestions. This homemade Boursin is incredibly versatile. Spread it on crusty bread or crackers for a simple yet elegant appetizer. Crumble it over salads for a burst of flavor and creamy texture. Use it as a filling for stuffed chicken breasts or mushrooms. Mix it into mashed potatoes for an extra decadent side dish. Or, simply enjoy it straight from the bowl with a spoon – I won't judge! For a delightful variation, try adding sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. You could also experiment with different herbs, such as dill, chives, or parsley, to create your own unique flavor combination.

Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Boursin & Fig Crostini: Spread the Boursin on toasted baguette slices and top with a slice of fresh fig and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Boursin Stuffed Dates: Pit Medjool dates and fill them with the Boursin cheese for a sweet and savory treat.
Boursin Pasta Sauce: Melt the Boursin into a warm pasta sauce for a creamy and flavorful dish.
Boursin Omelet: Add a dollop of Boursin to your omelet for a rich and flavorful breakfast.

I truly believe that once you try this recipe, you'll never buy store-bought Boursin again. It's that good! The process is simple, the ingredients are readily available, and the results are simply outstanding. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some culinary magic. I'm confident that you'll be thrilled with the outcome.

I'm so excited for you to try this Boursin Cheese Homemade recipe! And I'd love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your friends and family think? Please, share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps inspire others to try this amazing recipe. Happy cooking!

Don't forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends! Let's spread the word about this delicious and easy homemade treat. I can't wait to see what you create!