A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Mascarpone
A creamy Italian cheese. Get the pronunciation right for this rich dessert and appetizer ingredient.
mascarpone
mah-skar-POH-nay
/ˌmɑːskɑrˈpoʊneɪ/ · mah · skar · POH · nay
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's also a popular ingredient for home cooks making rich pasta sauces or cheesecakes.
Where the word comes from
The word 'mascarpone' likely comes from the Lombard dialect word 'mascarpa', meaning 'ricotta' or 'cheese curd'. It may also have roots in the Spanish 'mas que bueno', meaning 'better than good'.
Common ways people get it wrong
- mas-car-POHN The final syllable is often pronounced with an 'ay' sound, not just 'on'. Remember the Italian origin often influences the ending.
- MAS-car-pone The stress is on the third syllable, 'POH', not the first. Listen for the emphasis on the 'POH' sound.
Frequently asked
How do you say mascarpone?
The standard pronunciation is mah-skar-POH-nay. Pay attention to the stress on the third syllable, 'POH'.
Is mascarpone Italian?
Yes, mascarpone is an Italian cream cheese. Its name likely originates from Italian dialect or possibly Spanish influences.
What's the difference between mascarpone and cream cheese?
Mascarpone is richer and smoother than American cream cheese, with a higher fat content and a slightly sweeter, less tangy flavor.
