The development of new cheese with novel flavors is an increasing trend in the cheese market. Three experimental cheese-like products (ECs) with different processing parameters were manufactured from Saccharomyces cerevisiae-fermented milk, and their composition, functionality, volatile compounds, and sensory characteristics were compared with those of model Cheddar cheese (CC) during storage. Compared with CC, ECs had higher moisture content, yield, and pH but lower protein and fat content.In the early stage of storage, CC had the highest hardness and storage modulus, however, these values were higher in ECs than in CC with storing. After 90 days of storage, S. cerevisiae-inoculated milk significantly increased the levels of alcohols and esters in the ECs, contributing to high taste scores, especially ECs manufactured with high saccharose. Overall, cheese-like products manufactured from S. cerevisiae-fermented milk had a high yield, good functionality, and improved flavor profile and taste, with market potential.
Novelty impact statement:• The development of new cheese with novel flavors is an increasing trend.• Cheese-like products were manufactured from Saccharomyces cerevisiaefermented milk.• The resulted product had improved flavor profile and taste, with market potential.