Boursin is a soft, fresh cheese from Normandy, typically made from pasteurized cow’s milk and cream. It is known for its creamy, spreadable texture and is usually sold as a ready-to-use flavored cheese, with the classic Garlic & Fine Herbs being the original and most widely recognized variety.

Key points about Boursin:

• Type: Soft, spreadable cheese in many flavors; originally developed as a flavored fromage frais-style product.

• Base: Cow’s milk with cream; pasteurized during production.

• Texture and use: Creamy interior with a crumbly, spreadable surface; commonly used as a spread on bread or crackers, or melted into dishes for added richness.

• Notable flavors: Garlic & Fine Herbs is the traditional flagship flavor; many other varieties exist, including black pepper, shallot & chive, lemon & dill, and even truffle variants.

• Origin and ownership: Originated in Normandy; the brand has changed hands over the years and is currently associated with Bel Group in many markets.

If you’re wondering whether Boursin is a specific cheese type like a hard, aged cheese or a simple cream cheese: it’s best described as a soft, fresh Gournay-style cheese that’s specially flavored with herbs and other seasonings, rather than a single traditional cheese varietal.