Hoosier Hill Farm Premium Cheddar Cheese Powder, 2.5LB (Pack of 1)

I grew up eating the blue box. I loved the blue box. I taught my babysitters (two of them!) how to make the blue box when I was a kid. Lately, the blue box has completely failed me. I noticed recently that noodles seemed to be cooking faster than I remembered (I always went by a taste test rather than a timer). So, I checked the cook time (7-9 minutes) and purposely cut that time significantly short (5 minutes). The noodles were still too soft, and after trying to reheat leftovers, they completely disintegrated into a bowl of mush. Like, mashed potato consistency, only softer. And the sauce was bland. I've always tweaked it depending on my feelings for the day. Sometimes more butter if I want it richer. Or more milk if I want it thinner (and greater volume). Lately I've been needing to tweak it more, like adding nutritional yeast, or shredded cheese, or a sprinkling of a salted herb blend. It's just been bland and not lived up to my expectations.So, I started searching for alternatives. I ended up buying this cheese powder, hoping I could replicate the blue box but using quality macaroni noodles. And it worked! Does this product taste exactly like the blue box? not really. It reminds me more of the bunny box. My husband said it was a bit milder than the blue box, but if I'm honest, I think that we are comparing it to our MEMORIES of the blue box, rather than the actual current taste of the blue box. It is milder than I would ultimately love, but it is still yummy and at least gives me the option to continue to make "blue box" mac and cheese without having to suffer through macaroni mush. And, if I want to up the flavor a bit, I can just add a bit more powder!If you are looking to replicate the blue box, here is my suggestion: 1 1/2 c. uncooked macaroni and 2Tbs powder. Cook as directed on blue box (but timed for your macaroni), using butter and milk as you normally would, in the amounts you normally would. Of course you can adjust amounts depending on your tastes/serving needs, but I've found this ratio of macaroni to powder most closely replicates what you would (expect to) get from the blue box. Without macaroni mush.

For me, nostalgia isn't the blue box mac & cheese (although that used to be good when it was made with real cheese, instead of the leftovers from the cheese making process with other fake junk). Nostalgia for me is cheesy garlic bread made with Real Grated American Cheese like mom used to make. That cheese hasn't been available for a few decades now, and the blue box "cheese" is a poor substitute.This cheese powder made the best cheesy garlic bread I've had in decades. I also tried some mac & cheese, which was delicious, but it's a bit expensive for that when you can easily just use block cheese. It also tastes great on popcorn, but you still need to use butter or it will just fall off, even if you popped the corn in oil.Start with a large loaf of Italian or French bread and split top & bottom. Make a paste from 1 stick of softened butter, 1/3C cheese powder, and 1T garlic powder. Spread on bread and bake at 350F on an upper rack until the cheese browns. Takes less time than to boil and cook your pasta. Also easy to make ahead and store in the fridge or freezer until ready to bake in smaller servings.

The Hoosier Hill Farm Premium Cheddar Cheese Powder has become a staple in my kitchen. Here are some reasons why I’m thrilled with this product:Rich Cheddar Flavor: The cheddar cheese flavor is rich and authentic. It adds a delightful cheesy taste to a variety of dishes, making it a versatile ingredient for many recipes.Large Quantity: The 2.5-pound pack is generous and long-lasting. It's great value for the price, and I don't have to worry about running out anytime soon.Easy to Use: This cheese powder is incredibly easy to use. Whether sprinkling it over popcorn, mixing it into sauces, or adding it to mac and cheese, it dissolves smoothly and blends well with other ingredients.Versatile Applications: I've used it in everything from homemade cheese sauces and dips to sprinkling over vegetables and incorporating into baked goods. It’s also perfect for making a quick cheese sauce by simply mixing it with milk or water.Enhances Flavor: This cheese powder has significantly enhanced the flavor of my dishes. It's perfect for adding an extra cheesy kick without the need for fresh cheese, making it ideal for quick meals and snacks.Final Thoughts: The Hoosier Hill Farm Premium Cheddar Cheese Powder is a must-have for cheese lovers. Its rich flavor, ease of use, and versatility make it an excellent addition to any pantry. Whether you’re cooking, baking, or just looking to add some cheesy goodness to your snacks, this cheese powder is a fantastic choice. Highly recommended!