Discover the secret to making sensational homemade boursin cheese with this ultimate boursin cheese recipe! This step-by-step boursin cheese recipe guide reveals how to create the legendary French cheese spread and boursin garlic herb combination that tastes incredibly better than store-bought. Perfect for impressive cheese appetizer ideas and effortless entertaining, this easy boursin cheese recipe comes together in just minutes with simple boursin cheese ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or looking for quick appetizer solutions, this authentic boursin cheese recipe will transform your cooking game and make you the star of every gathering!
What is Boursin Cheese?
Boursin is a soft, creamy French cheese known for its distinctive garlic and herb flavor profile. Originally created in 1957 by François Boursin in Normandy, France, this spreadable cheese has become a worldwide favorite for its luxurious texture and versatile uses.
The original Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs variety combines cream cheese with fresh garlic, parsley, chives, dill, and black pepper. While you can find it in most supermarkets, this authentic boursin cheese recipe shows you how to make it at home, allowing you to control the quality of boursin cheese ingredients and customize the flavors to your preference. This easy copycat boursin cheese recipe tastes even better than store-bought and delivers the same creamy boursin cheese texture!
Ingredients for Homemade Boursin Cheese
Essential Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese – Use full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature for best results
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Also softened to room temperature
- 2-3 cloves garlic – Minced or pressed for maximum flavor distribution
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley – Finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives – Finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill – Finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground works best
- ¼ teaspoon lemon juice – Adds brightness and balances richness
Optional Additions:
- Fresh thyme leaves
- A pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
- Finely grated lemon zest
- Dried herbs if fresh aren’t available (use half the amount)
How to Make Boursin Cheese Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for this boursin cheese recipe – this is crucial for achieving that signature smooth, spreadable consistency. Cold ingredients will result in a lumpy texture that’s difficult to blend.
Finely mince your garlic and chop all fresh herbs as small as possible for your boursin cheese recipe. The finer your herbs, the better they’ll incorporate into the cheese mixture.
Step 2: Combine Cream Cheese and Butter
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for this boursin cheese recipe. Mix for about 2-3 minutes until completely smooth and fluffy with no lumps remaining.
Alternatively, you can use a food processor for this boursin cheese recipe step – pulse until the mixture is completely homogeneous.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture when making this boursin cheese recipe. Beat on low speed until evenly distributed throughout the cheese. The garlic should be well-incorporated with no large chunks visible.
Step 4: Fold in Fresh Herbs
Gently fold in the chopped parsley, chives, and dill using a spatula for this boursin cheese recipe. You want to distribute the herbs evenly without overmixing, which can bruise the delicate herb leaves and diminish their fresh flavor.
Mix just until you see green flecks distributed throughout the white cheese base in your boursin cheese recipe.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
This is your chance to customize your boursin cheese recipe! Taste your boursin and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more garlic, additional salt, or extra herbs depending on your preference.
Remember that flavors will intensify slightly as the cheese rests in your boursin cheese recipe, so go easy on adjustments.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Transfer your homemade boursin to a serving bowl or shape it into a log using plastic wrap when completing your boursin cheese recipe. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
The resting time is essential for this boursin cheese recipe – this is when the magic happens and all those fresh herb and garlic flavors infuse into the creamy cheese base.
Before serving, let the cheese sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes for optimal spreadability when serving your boursin cheese recipe.
Boursin Cheese
Make sensational homemade boursin cheese with this easy recipe that combines cream cheese with garlic and fresh herbs for an incredible flavor.
Essential Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (Use full-fat cream cheese for best results.)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed (Minced or pressed for maximum flavor distribution.)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped (Or ½ teaspoon dried.)
- ½ teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste.)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground works best.)
- ¼ teaspoon lemon juice (Adds brightness and balances richness.)
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (For heat.)
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
Prepare Your Ingredients
- Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. Finely mince your garlic and chop all fresh herbs as small as possible.
Combine Cream Cheese and Butter
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth and fluffy.
Add Garlic and Seasonings
- Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed until evenly distributed.
Fold in Fresh Herbs
- Gently fold in the chopped parsley, chives, and dill using a spatula. Mix just until you see green flecks distributed throughout the cheese.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste your boursin and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember that flavors will intensify slightly as the cheese rests.
Chill and Serve
- Transfer your homemade boursin to a serving bowl or shape it into a log using plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Use high-quality ingredients, ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened, and allow adequate chilling time for flavors to develop. This recipe improves with age; it can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Pro Tips for Perfect Boursin
Ingredient Quality Matters
Use the highest quality cream cheese you can find for your boursin cheese recipe – premium brands have better texture and flavor. Fresh herbs are also essential; dried herbs simply can’t replicate the bright, vibrant taste of their fresh counterparts. If you’re interested in other uses for fresh herbs, check out this refreshing lemon balm recipe for a delightful herbal drink.
Room Temperature is Non-Negotiable
Seriously – don’t skip this boursin cheese recipe step! Cold cream cheese and butter won’t blend smoothly no matter how long you mix. Plan ahead and leave your dairy on the counter for about an hour before starting.
Garlic Intensity Control
If you’re sensitive to raw garlic in your boursin cheese recipe, start with just one clove and add more to taste. For a mellower flavor, you can briefly sauté the minced garlic in a little butter until fragrant, then cool completely before adding.
Make it Ahead
This boursin cheese recipe actually improves with age (to a point). Make it 1-2 days ahead of when you need it for maximum flavor development. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.
Perfect Portioning
Consider making a double batch of this boursin cheese recipe and forming the extra into small individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap. These freeze beautifully for up to 3 months and make great last-minute appetizers.
Boursin Cheese Uses: Creative Serving Ideas & Boursin Cheese Pasta
Homemade boursin cheese from this boursin cheese recipe is incredibly versatile and perfect for elevating everyday meals into something extraordinary. From elegant dinner parties to quick weeknight dinners, this creamy spread transforms ordinary ingredients into gourmet creations. Here are some delicious and creative ways to enjoy your boursin cheese:
- Classic crackers and crudités – The simplest and most popular serving method
- Spread on toasted baguette slices – Perfect for bruschetta-style appetizers
- Stuffed in chicken breasts – Creates an elegant main course
- Melted into pasta – Adds instant creaminess and flavor
- Dolloped on baked potatoes – Elevates this humble side dish
- Mixed into scrambled eggs – Breakfast luxury
- Spread on sandwiches – Instead of regular cream cheese or mayo
- Tossed with roasted vegetables – Especially delicious with cherry tomatoes
Flavor Variations to Try
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Boursin
Replace the dill and chives with fresh basil and add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained).
Pepper Boursin
Add 1 tablespoon of cracked black pepper and reduce the other herbs. Use a mix of black, white, and pink peppercorns for visual appeal and complex flavor.
Everything Bagel Boursin
Omit the fresh herbs and add 2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning. This creates an addictive spread perfect for breakfast.
Truffle Boursin
Add 1 teaspoon of truffle oil and reduce the garlic slightly. This creates an ultra-luxurious version perfect for special occasions.
Smoked Salmon Boursin
Fold in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped smoked salmon, some capers, and fresh dill for a lox-inspired variation.
Storage and Shelf Life
Store your homemade boursin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to use clean utensils each time you serve it to prevent contamination.
For longer storage, boursin freezes surprisingly well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Note that the texture may become slightly grainy after freezing, but the flavor remains excellent. Give it a quick stir after thawing to restore smoothness.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
My boursin is too soft/runny
This usually happens when the cream cheese and butter were too warm. Refrigerate for several hours to firm up. Next time, ensure your ingredients are softened but not melted.
The texture is lumpy
This indicates your cream cheese wasn’t fully softened before mixing. Try letting it sit at room temperature longer next time. You can also try warming the mixture slightly and mixing again, but be careful not to melt it.
The flavor is too garlicky
Raw garlic intensifies over time. If you’ve overdone it, try mixing in a bit more cream cheese to dilute the flavor. Next time, start with less garlic and add more gradually.
The herbs look brown/wilted
This happens when herbs are overmixed or when wet herbs are used. Make sure your herbs are completely dry before chopping, and fold them in gently rather than beating them in.
Nutrition Information
Per 2-tablespoon serving:
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 95mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh (so roughly 2 teaspoons dried parsley, ½ teaspoon dried chives, and ⅓ teaspoon dried dill).
How long does homemade boursin last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, homemade boursin will keep for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter substitutes. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Why does my boursin taste different than store-bought?
Store-bought boursin contains stabilizers and preservatives that affect both texture and flavor. Your homemade version will be fresher and may taste more intensely of herbs and garlic. Consider this a feature, not a bug!
Can I make boursin in a food processor?
Absolutely! Combine the cream cheese, butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in the food processor and pulse until smooth. Then add the herbs and pulse just 2-3 times to incorporate without overmixing.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade boursin cheese with this boursin cheese recipe is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. With just a few basic ingredients and about 10 minutes of hands-on time, you can create an impressive appetizer that rivals anything store-bought.
The real secret to this boursin cheese recipe is using quality ingredients – particularly fresh herbs – and allowing adequate time for the flavors to develop. Don’t rush the chilling process; those few hours of patience make all the difference between good boursin and great boursin.
Whether you’re preparing for a dinner party, looking for an easy homemade gift, or simply want to elevate your everyday meals, this boursin cheese recipe is a keeper. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to buying it pre-made.
Ready to transform your cooking with this amazing boursin cheese recipe? This homemade boursin cheese is perfect for your next gathering or as an elegant boursin cheese spread that will impress everyone at the table. Make this copycat boursin cheese today and discover the incredible flavor of authentic French cheese spread that rivals any gourmet store! Don’t forget to share your delicious boursin cheese pasta creations and tag us with your results. Start making this irresistible boursin garlic herb cheese now and elevate your appetizer game forever!
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