Crème Fraîche

Crème fraîche is a rich, tangy cultured cream originating from France, renowned for its velvety texture and subtle, nutty flavor. Made by adding bacterial cultures to heavy cream, it thickens naturally and develops a pleasant, slightly tart taste. Crème fraîche is prized in both sweet and savory dishes for its ability to add creaminess without curdling, even when heated. Its luxurious consistency makes it perfect for swirling into soups, sauces, and mashed potatoes, or dolloping over fresh fruit and desserts. With a higher fat content than sour cream, crème fraîche brings a delicate richness and a refined, gourmet touch to any recipe.

Crème fraîche is typically found in the dairy section of most grocery stores, often near other specialty dairy products like mascarpone, ricotta, and sour cream. Look for it in small tubs or containers, usually placed alongside items such as heavy cream, cottage cheese, and yogurt. In many supermarkets, there may be a dedicated shelf or refrigerated area for gourmet or European-style dairy products, where crème fraîche is commonly stocked. If you have trouble locating it, try asking a store associate, as some stores may keep it with specialty cheeses or in the natural foods section. Crème fraîche is a rich, tangy cream perfect for both sweet and savory recipes, so be sure to check the expiration date and choose a container that suits the amount needed for your dish.