Appenzeller Cheese vs Farmstead Cheese
Appenzeller Cheese is a firm cow-milk cheese from Switzerland, while Farmstead Cheese is a cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo-milk cheese.
What Is Appenzeller Cheese?
Appenzeller is a hard cow's milk cheese from the Appenzellerland region of northeast Switzerland. Its wheels are washed with a herbal brine as they cure, which builds a golden rind, a strong smell, and a flavor that runs from mild and nutty to sharp.
What Is Farmstead Cheese?
Farmstead cheese, called farmhouse cheese in Europe, is made on the same farm that produced the milk. No outside milk is allowed, so each one tastes like the herd and land behind it.
What's the Difference Between Appenzeller Cheese and Farmstead Cheese?
- Milk type: Appenzeller Cheese (cow's milk), Farmstead Cheese (cow, goat, sheep, sometimes water buffalo)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Appenzeller Cheese | Farmstead Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Switzerland | — |
| Specific Origin | Appenzell Region | Europe And North America |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow, goat, sheep, sometimes water buffalo |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | — |
| Texture | Firm | — |
| Rind | Washed rind | — |
| Aging | 3 to 6 months or longer | — |
| Taste | Piquant, tangy | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Appenzeller Cheese Taste Like Farmstead Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Appenzeller Cheese for Farmstead Cheese?
Appenzeller Cheese can stand in for Farmstead Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Appenzeller Cheese or Farmstead Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Appenzeller Cheese the same as Farmstead Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Appenzeller Cheese is made from cow milk; Farmstead Cheese uses cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo.
Is Appenzeller Cheese similar to Farmstead Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Appenzeller Cheese for Farmstead Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Appenzeller Cheese taste like Farmstead Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Appenzeller Cheese made of?
Appenzeller Cheese is made from cow milk (raw). It's typically aged 3 to 6 months or longer. It originates in Switzerland.
What is Farmstead Cheese made of?
Farmstead Cheese is made from cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo milk.
Which should I choose, Appenzeller Cheese or Farmstead Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.