Mascarpone is a rich, creamy Italian cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a slightly sweet flavor and a smooth, spreadable texture. Mascarpone is often used in desserts, such as tiramisu and cannoli, but it can also be used in savory dishes, such as pasta sauces and risottos.
The name “mascarpone” comes from the Italian word “mascarpa,” which means “butter.” This is a reference to the cheese’s high fat content. Mascarpone is made by heating milk with cream and then adding a small amount of citric acid or lemon juice. This causes the milk to curdle and separate into curds and whey. The curds are then drained and the whey is discarded. The curds are then mashed and mixed with cream to create a smooth, spreadable cheese.