What Is the Difference Between Cheese Knife and a Butter Knife?

A butter knife is a blunt knife that is used to spread butter, soft cheese and other soft food items like cream and honey. A cheese knife, on the other hand, is designed to handle the different types of cheese, including both hard and soft cheese, which means the blade is much sharper than that of a butter knife.

We’re going to discuss the other nuanced differences below, so keep on reading!

When to Use a Butter Knife?

As mentioned above, butter knives are strictly ideal for spreading soft items. This is because they have a very blunt blade, and if you try to cut hard vegetables or fruits with it, both your food and knife will become damaged. Also, you are much more likely to injure yourself using a blunt knife!

They are ideal for using on toast, muffins, scones, cupcakes and other baked goods because they will not cut through the surface of such soft foods. A butter knife may not be ideal for refrigerated butter, however, as it can get difficult to break. Hard surfaces will simply crumble if you try to cut them with a butter knife. It will be ideal for soft and room temperature butter. Also, butter knives are ideal for using around children as they are not super sharp.

A butter knife is a necessity in every kitchen because other than spreading butter, you can use it to spread soft cheese, honey, cream and jam.

When to Use a Cheese Knife?

Cheese knives are not as versatile as butter knives, so there is no need to keep one on hand at all times. But, they are definitely helpful when creating cheese spreads or carcueterie boards. Let’s take a look at the few different kinds of cheese knives you can choose from.

Soft Cheese Knife

As the name suggests, the soft cheese knife is used to cut and spread soft cheeses such as burrata. This knife has small holes on each side of the blade, as this designs helps the cheese from sticking to the blade.

Gorgonzola Knife

The gorgonzola knife is used for cutting creamy cheeses, much like the soft cheese knife. However, the gorgonzola knife is made to cut through the rind of some soft cheeses such as brie or gorgonzola. This is why the gorgonzola knife features a sharp blade.

Flat Cheese Knife

The flat cheese knife is designed to cut through the hard edged of aged cheeses, like swiss or provolone. This knife features a wide paddle like blade, which can be used to serve the cheese as you cut through it. This is a must have for parties, as guests can use this knife to cut and serve the cheese to themselves.

Final Thoughts

All food enthusiasts know that all the knives in their arsenal have very specific uses, and should not be traded amongst eachother. But, everyone seems to become confused when it comes to the differences between cheese and butter knives. We hope that the information we presented with you helps with all your questions, and guides you to making the best kitchen purchases.