Shelf-stable, bakeable savory cheese product and process for preparing it

Abstract

A savory, smooth-textured, bakeable and shelf-stable product is prepared as a three-phase formulation, including an aqueous liquid phase, a dispersed fat phase and a solids phase, preferably containing a savory ingredient, preferably a cheese flavoring component, in significant proportion. The liquid phase is present in sufficient quantity to suspend and disperse the fat and solids phases and to have sufficient dissolved solids and humectants to raise the viscosity for this phase sufficiently to result in a creamy texture for the final product. The savory flavor ingredients are present as undissolved solids of sufficiently small particle size to provide the proper flavor release for the flavor and a texture consistent with the savory flavor. Preferred cheese products will have a lubricous, slippery, smooth mouthfeel and a flavor release that endures until the palate is essentially clean. The product can be applied to unbaked doughs prior to baking and retain their desired properties after baking. The product can also be packaged for use as is with any number of complimentary foods.