Think storing cheese is as simple as tossing it in the fridge or sealing it in a plastic box? Think again! Discover the simple (and delicious) tricks that will keep your favorite cheese fresher, longer—and finally solve the age-old battle against dried-out brie and funky camembert.
Why Cheese Storage Isn’t as Easy as You Think
Cheese, at first glance, seems indestructible. But this humble dairy marvel is far trickier to store than it appears. Cheese is sensitive—fluctuations in temperature can play havoc with its nuanced flavors and delicate texture. Most people know to steer clear of heat, but here’s the plot twist: cheese doesn’t love intense cold either. If you chill it too much, you’ll actually stop it from maturing well.
Let’s not overlook another fact: cheese is a living food. It breathes! That means locking it away in a plastic wrap or airtight container is a big no-no. While professional cheese caves might not be standard-issue in your kitchen (and let’s face it, not everyone has a dedicated cheese cellar), there are still ways to get it right at home. Here’s how to keep that cheese happy and flavorful.
Know Your Cheese: Why Type Matters
The first golden rule: identify the cheese in your hand. That’s right—not all cheeses are created equal in the storage department. Different types will resist temperature changes more effectively, need different wrapping, and may or may not even belong in the fridge.
- Cooked pressed cheeses—like Comté, Gruyère, Parmesan, or Emmental—can last several weeks in a cool spot without losing their charm.
- Soft cheeses (think Camembert, Brie, Époisses) are, by nature, a little less resilient: you’ll get one to three weeks at best before it’s time to say goodbye.
- Fresh cheeses are most vulnerable; they should be enjoyed quickly after buying, usually within 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge, to avoid a blue-and-green science experiment.
The upshot? Buy according to how quickly you’ll eat your cheese, how long each type lasts, and, crucially, don’t forget what’s still lurking in your fridge.
The Surprising Storage Trick: It’s All About the Wrap
Time to talk packaging—this is where most of us go astray. If you still have the original wrap from your cheesemonger, keep it! That special packaging lets cheese breathe while protecting it. Usually, you’ll get something like a waxy paper—perfect for stashing cheese in the fridge. If you don’t have that, reach for parchment paper.
- Avoid exposing cheese directly to air; this dries it out and can even compromise its flavor.
- The right wrap also shields cheese from too much humidity, which accelerates mold (and not the good kind!).
Don’t have cheese paper? No need to panic! Parchment does the trick nearly as well. Another pro tip: get a cheese dome or even a wooden box. These options keep humidity just right (about 90%) and help protect your cheese at the ideal temperature. And don’t forget: store cheeses separately. That way, their distinct flavors won’t end up in an awkward tasting mish-mash.
Where to Stash Your Cheese—And Where Not To
Decision time: where does your precious cheese actually live? Several options are at your disposal. If you live somewhere temperate, even a cellar, a garage, or a balcony can double up as cheese zones (but skip this move if you’re in a hot region—you’re making fondue instead of storing cheese).
Your trusty fridge remains the most common solution. But here’s what many overlook: the vegetable drawer is the VIP lounge for your cheese. That section isn’t as cold as the rest of the fridge and is perfect for hard and fresh cheeses.
- Fresh or hard cheeses? Vegetable drawer.
- Soft, bloomy rind cheeses (camembert, brie) or washed rind favorites (munster, Époisses)? Place them in a cooler section of your fridge, such as the upper shelves, which are much colder than the drawer.
Ready to eat? Let your cheese sit out at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving. Place it on a lovely platter and enjoy it as it was meant to be savored—neither too cold, nor tragically dried out.
Bottom line: Skip the plastic. Instead, choose proper paper or a wooden cheese box, think about storage location, and treat each cheese like the diva it is. Happier cheese, tastier bites—that’s a win for everyone at your next cheese night!
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
