Epic source
Energy
435 kcal · 22% DV target
A decadently thick and ivory-hued Italian cream cheese, mascarpone is prized for its velvety texture and mild sweetness, serving as a high-fat culinary staple that bridges the gap between dairy and dessert.
Mascarpone is classified as a fresh cheese, meaning it is unripened and typically contains lower levels of histamine and other vasoactive amines (compounds that can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals) compared to matured varieties like Cheddar or Parmesan .1
Because it is a fresh, soft cheese, mascarpone contains significant amounts of lactose (the natural sugar in milk) and is generally less tolerated by those with lactose intolerance than aged, hard cheeses .3
Mascarpone is a calorie-dense dairy product with a high concentration of milk fat, which contributes to its notable Vitamin A and cholesterol content.
Like other fresh dairy products, mascarpone can support the growth of Listeria monocytogenes if contaminated, as the bacteria can multiply at refrigeration temperatures in moist, low-acid dairy environments .4
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
435 kcal · 22% DV target
44.5 g · 57% DV target
4.20 g · 8% DV target
29.5 g · 147% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
1.81 g · 181% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
0.35 g · Top 9% of dairy & cheese
Seasonality has not been estimated for this ingredient yet.
Keep in original container and consume quickly once opened
As a concentrated dairy product, it has a higher carbon footprint than plant-based fats but lower than most meats.
Unlike many cheeses that rely on animal rennet, mascarpone is traditionally produced by curdling heavy cream with citric or tartaric acid, a process that preserves its characteristic buttery sweetness.