Boursin Cheese Copycat
Boursin Cheese Copycat is a easy French recipe that serves 12. 80 calories per serving. Recipe by Cat Scratch Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 30 min
Cost: $8.22 total, $0.69 per serving
Ingredients
- 16 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature, softened)
- 8 oz Unsalted Butter (room temperature, softened (2 sticks))
- 0.25 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced or pressed; substitute 1 tbsp jarred minced garlic)
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley Flakes
- 1 tsp Dried Dill Weed
- 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder
- 0.5 tsp Dried Thyme
- 0.5 tsp Dried Basil
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground preferred)
- 0.5 tsp Italian Seasoning (store‑bought or homemade blend)
Instructions
Soften Cream Cheese and Butter
Remove the cream cheese and butter from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 30‑45 minutes until soft but not melted.
Time: PT5M
Grate Parmesan Cheese
Using a fine‑grated cheese grater, grate the Parmesan cheese into a small bowl.
Time: PT2M
Prepare Garlic
Peel and mince the three garlic cloves (or measure 1 tablespoon of jarred minced garlic).
Time: PT2M
Measure Herbs and Spices
Measure out the dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, thyme, basil, black pepper, and Italian seasoning into a small dish.
Time: PT2M
Combine Base Ingredients
Place the softened cream cheese, butter, and grated Parmesan into the mixing bowl. Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, mash and blend until the mixture is smooth and the butter is fully incorporated.
Time: PT5M
Add Garlic and Herb Blend
Stir in the minced garlic and the measured herb‑spice mixture. Continue mixing until the spread is uniform and no dry specks remain.
Time: PT3M
Package and Refrigerate
Transfer the finished cheese spread into airtight containers, smooth the top, seal, and refrigerate.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 80
- Protein
- 1 g
- Carbohydrates
- 1 g
- Fat
- 8 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free
Allergens: Dairy, Garlic
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cream Cheese: Neufchatel cheese, vegan cream cheese
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Salted butter, plant‑based butter
- Instead of Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano, grated Asiago
- Instead of Garlic: Jarred minced garlic, garlic powder (adjust amount)
- Instead of Dried Parsley Flakes: Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Instead of Dried Dill Weed: Fresh dill, minced
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Additional fresh garlic
- Instead of Dried Thyme: Fresh thyme
- Instead of Dried Basil: Fresh basil
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Italian Seasoning: Additional dried oregano and thyme
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon or Rubber Spatula
- Measuring Spoons
- Cheese Grater
- Airtight Container(s)
- Knife (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Softening the cream cheese and butter without overheating.
- Fully mashing the butter into the cream cheese to avoid lumps.
- Incorporating the herb‑spice blend evenly.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For a brighter herb flavor, substitute half of the dried parsley with fresh chopped parsley.
- Toast a few slices of baguette and spread a thin layer for an elegant French‑style canapé.
Troubleshooting
Spread is grainy or has butter pockets.
Return to the mixing bowl and mash longer, scraping the sides. If needed, use a hand mixer on low speed to achieve a smoother texture.
Flavor is too mild.
Add an extra half‑teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch more fresh minced garlic, then mix and taste.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 1 month.
Freezer: Not recommended – texture may become grainy.
Room temperature: Do not leave out longer than 2 hours; keep chilled.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The spread improves in flavor after 24 hours as the herbs meld.
- Bring to room temperature 15 minutes before serving for a smoother texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of French style garlic herb cheese spread in French cuisine?
Herb‑infused cheese spreads have long been a staple of French apéritif culture, often served with baguette slices or crackers. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and soft cheeses reflects the French love of simple, flavorful accompaniments that elevate a casual gathering.
What are the traditional regional variations of garlic herb cheese spreads in France?
In Provence, the spread often includes herbes de Provence and olive oil, while in Normandy it may feature a higher proportion of creamy Camembert or Brie. Some Alpine versions add walnuts or smoked cheese for a richer profile.
How is French style garlic herb cheese traditionally served in French households?
It is typically presented on a cheese board alongside crusty baguette, cornichons, and a selection of cured meats. The spread is spooned onto the bread and enjoyed as part of the "hors d'oeuvre" before the main meal.
During which French celebrations or occasions is a garlic herb cheese spread commonly offered?
It appears frequently at holiday gatherings such as Noël (Christmas) and Réveillon, as well as during casual weekend brunches and wine‑pairing evenings where small bites are served.
What other French dishes pair well with this garlic herb cheese spread?
Pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, charcuterie like saucisson, or use it as a filling for savory crepes. It also works beautifully under a gratin of potatoes or mixed into a warm pasta sauce for extra richness.
What makes this garlic herb cheese spread special compared to other cheese dips?
The blend of softened butter with cream cheese creates a luxuriously smooth texture, while the balanced herb and garlic seasoning gives a distinctly French aromatic profile that is both robust and elegant.
How has the French style garlic herb cheese spread evolved in modern home cooking?
Home cooks now often add fresh herbs, experiment with different cheeses like goat or blue cheese, and use food processors for an ultra‑smooth consistency. The convenience of jarred minced garlic has also made the recipe quicker while preserving flavor.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making French style garlic herb cheese spread?
Avoid overheating the butter in the microwave, which creates a grainy texture. Also, be sure to fully mash the butter into the cream cheese; any lumps will remain visible in the final spread.
How do I know when the garlic herb cheese spread is properly mixed?
The spread should be completely smooth with no visible butter chunks or dry herb specks. When you lift the spoon, the mixture should glide effortlessly and hold its shape without separating.
Can I make this French style garlic herb cheese spread ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one month. For best flavor, let it sit for at least 24 hours before serving so the herbs meld together.
What does the YouTube channel Cat Scratch Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Cat Scratch Kitchen focuses on approachable home‑cooking recipes, often highlighting quick, budget‑friendly dishes and creative twists on classic comfort foods, with clear step‑by‑step demonstrations.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
