Mascarpone is a soft, triple cream cheese that originated in Italy. It has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste. Mascarpone is used in many desserts, most famously in tiramisu. But where exactly can you find mascarpone in the grocery store?
Dairy Section
Mascarpone will typically be located in the dairy or cheese section of the grocery store. Since it is a fresh cheese, it needs to be refrigerated. Look for it near other specialty cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, gorgonzola, etc. Mascarpone may be found in a few different areas of the dairy section:
With the Hard Cheeses
Some stores stock mascarpone alongside parmesan, asiago, and other hard, grated cheeses. Make sure to check the labels carefully, as it can easily be missed next to the wedges of parmesan.
With the Cream Cheese
Since mascarpone has a rich, creamy texture, some stores place it in the cream cheese section next to blocks of regular cream cheese, Neufchatel, etc. Again, it’s easy to mistake mascarpone for regular cream cheese, so read the label.
In the Specialty Cheese Area
Many grocery stores now have a section dedicated to fancy imported cheeses. This is often where you will find mascarpone, along with cheeses like brie, camembert, feta, etc. This section is usually found toward the perimeter of the store in the dairy/cheese area.
Check Multiple Areas
Because mascarpone can be located in several different parts of the dairy section, it’s a good idea to check all of them if you don’t see it right away. Make sure to scan the labels closely so you don’t confuse it with another cheese. The packaging is often white plastic tubs or foil wrappers. If your store has a specialty cheese shop or Italian section, check there as well.
Near Other Ingredients for Italian Desserts
In some stores, mascarpone may be stocked in the pasta or Italian ingredients aisle, alongside items used to make tiramisu and other Italian desserts. For example, it could be shelved near:
– Ladyfingers
– Cocoa powder
– Amaretto or other liqueurs
– Espresso powder
– Chocolate shavings
So if you don’t find it in the dairy case, be sure to check the Italian/pasta section as well. They want to merchandise it alongside complementary items.
Refrigerated Section of the Bakery
For grocery stores with an in-house bakery, you may find mascarpone refrigerated near the fresh-baked goods. Some bakeries use it for filling in cakes, cannolis, or pastry cream. So check any refrigerated cases in the bakery section. It may be by the fresh whipped cream, pastry dough, or dessert toppings.
Near the Eggs and Butter
Some compact stores don’t have a large dedicated dairy section. In these cases, mascarpone may be found with the eggs, butter, and basic dairy products. This section is usually along the back wall of the store in one of the refrigerated cases. Scan closely, as it can be tucked in between the gallons of milk and cartons of heavy cream.
At the Cheese Counter
For specialty or gourmet stores like Whole Foods, there is often a cheese counter or shop managed by a cheese expert. Ask the cheesemonger and they may have mascarpone stocked behind the counter. This allows them to control the temperature and humidity. So be sure to inquire at the cheese counter if you don’t see it in the dairy case.
Near the Fresh Mozzarella
Stores with specialty cheese counters often stock fresh mozzarella in brine or water. Check around this area, as mascarpone is sometimes merchandised nearby. The textures of fresh mozzarella and mascarpone are similar, so they are complementary products.
In the Refrigerated Section of the Pasta Aisle
Some grocery stores have a refrigerated case within the pasta aisle, used for chilled pasta sauces, pesto, and other prepared foods. If your store has one of these cases, you may find mascarpone there as well, since it’s a common ingredient in Italian dishes. So check any refrigerated areas within the pasta/Italian section.
By the Yogurts/Desserts
Since mascarpone has a sweet, creamy taste, some stores stock it near yogurts and prepared desserts like puddings, mousses, and gelatins. This section is usually found toward the front of the store near produce. Be sure to scan this area carefully so you don’t miss it.
Check Multiple Stores
Keep in mind as well that availability can vary between grocery stores. One store may not carry it or keep it well stocked. So if you strike out at your first stop, try another store in your area. International and specialty markets are also a good bet for finding mascarpone. Just call ahead to check availability so you don’t waste a trip.
Can’t Find It? Ask for Help
If you’ve checked every logical section and still can’t locate the mascarpone, don’t give up. Ask the dairy manager or another grocery employee for assistance. Let them know the specific item you’re looking for and they should be able to track it down or at least tell you if it’s out of stock. With their insider knowledge of the store’s layout, employees can usually pinpoint hard-to-find items.
Buy It Online
As a last resort, if you need mascarpone for a recipe but just can’t find it locally, order it online. There are many online stores specializing in gourmet and specialty cheeses that carry several premium brands of mascarpone. You can compare options and prices to find the size and quantity you need, delivered right to your door. Just be sure to choose expedited shipping so it arrives fresh.
Conclusion
While mascarpone can be tricky to locate since it has no one dedicated section, keep these tips in mind to track it down. Check multiple areas like the specialty cheese case, dairy section, bakery, pasta aisle, and cheese counter. Ask for help if you still can’t find it. And as a backup, order it online so you can enjoy delicious tiramisu and other recipes requiring this rich Italian cheese. With a little detective work, you’ll be able to bring home the perfect mascarpone for your next culinary creation.