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Parmesan–Asiago Cream with Orange Zest & White Balsamic Honey Drizzle

A rich, creamy cheese spread that combines aged cheeses with a hint of orange zest, perfect for pairing with vegetables, crackers, or roasted meats.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 175
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Parmesan–Asiago Cream
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ¾ cup finely grated aged Parmesan-style cheese
  • ¼ cup finely grated Asiago cheese
  • ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
  • 1½ tablespoons fresh tarragon, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
  • Pinch white pepper (optional)
Honey Citrus Drizzle
  • ⅔ cup white grape vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons mild liquid honey (or agave syrup)
For Garnish
  • Small fresh tarragon sprigs
  • Optional extra orange zest

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pour the cream into a small saucepan and warm it over medium-low heat, keeping it below a boil.
  2. Slowly add the Parmesan-style cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
  3. Stir in the Asiago cheese and continue mixing until the cream looks glossy and cohesive.
  4. If the mixture becomes too thick, stir in 1–2 teaspoons of additional cream to loosen it.
  5. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to ensure a silky texture.
  6. Gently fold in the toasted almonds, chopped tarragon, orange zest, and white pepper.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish lined with plastic wrap and smooth the top evenly.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for 4-5 hours, until firm but still scoopable.
Drizzle Preparation
  1. Combine the vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  3. Let the mixture reduce by about one-third, until lightly syrupy.
  4. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely; it will thicken as it rests.
Serving
  1. Scoop the chilled cheese mixture into small portions using a teaspoon or small scoop.
  2. Shape quickly and arrange on a serving plate.
  3. Drizzle lightly with the cooled honey citrus syrup.
  4. Finish with a small tarragon sprig and, if desired, a touch of extra orange zest.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep the drizzle separate in a small jar. To make a healthier version, consider using half-and-half or Greek yogurt, and reducing the honey.