Why Does Cheese Harden in the Refrigerator?

Cheese hardens in the refrigerator when moisture gradually escapes into the cold, relatively dry air. Cheese left uncovered or loosely wrapped, such as white cheese, can dry out at the surface and develop a hard edge. Moisture loss usually starts at the outside and moves inward. Aged cheeses with less moisture may harden sooner, while fresh, moist cheeses and cheeses stored in brine can retain moisture longer. Temperature fluctuations, including those near a frequently opened refrigerator door, can also speed drying.

Why does cheese harden in the refrigerator, and how can you prevent it?

Preventing moisture loss helps keep cheese soft:

• Wrap cheese snugly or store it in a covered container.
• Keep brined cheese in its brine or in lightly salted water, as appropriate for that cheese.
• Store cheese on an interior shelf where the temperature is more stable, rather than in the door.
• Once opened, keep it covered and use it promptly.
• If the cheese has started to dry, you can try covering it with a damp cloth to help even out its moisture.

What storage mistakes make cheese harden?

These practices can speed drying:

• Leaving cheese uncovered on a plate in the refrigerator.
• Pouring off the brine and storing brined cheese dry.
• Keeping cheese in the door, where the temperature changes more often.
• Leaving a large piece exposed while using it a little at a time.

Can hardened cheese be softened again?

Cheese that has hardened only from moisture loss and shows no signs of spoilage may still be usable. Soaking brined cheese briefly in warm salted water to soften it somewhat is suggested. You can also grate hardened cheese and use it in cooked dishes, pastries, or gratins, where it will melt. If cheese has mold, a sour odor, or discoloration, treat it as spoiled and do not eat it.

Which cheeses harden more quickly?

Aged cheeses with low moisture and fat content tend to harden faster when left exposed. Fresh, moist cheeses kept in brine may retain moisture longer. Choose a storage method suited to the type of cheese. Wrapping cheese, keeping brined varieties in their brine, and storing them on a stable interior shelf can help limit hardening. Grating and cooking with hardened cheese can help avoid waste.