Boursault Cheese vs Jarlsberg Cheese
Boursault Cheese is a soft, soft-ripened cow-milk cheese from France, while Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard and made from cow milk, originating in Norway.
What Is Boursault Cheese?
Boursault is a soft, soft-ripened cheese from France made from pasteurized cow's milk. It features a bloomy rind, which helps develop its creamy interior. The texture is exceptionally smooth and spreadable, making it a popular choice for spreading on bread or crackers. Its flavor is predominantly buttery, with a rich and mild taste that appeals to many palates. Boursault's approachable flavor and creamy texture make it a favorite for both casual snacking and more formal cheese platters. It pairs well with light wines, fruit, and nuts, enhancing its creamy character.
What Is Jarlsberg Cheese?
Jarlsberg is a mild Swiss-type cheese from Norway, made from cow's milk and named after Jarlsberg Manor. It is known for its buttery, slightly sweet and nutty flavor and its medium to large holes.
What's the Difference Between Boursault Cheese and Jarlsberg Cheese?
- Origin: Boursault Cheese (France), Jarlsberg Cheese (Norway)
- Texture: Boursault Cheese (soft, soft-ripened), Jarlsberg Cheese (Semihard)
- Rind: Boursault Cheese (bloomy), Jarlsberg Cheese (Plastic-covered)
- Taste: Boursault Cheese (buttery), Jarlsberg Cheese (Mild, sweet, nutty)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Boursault Cheese | Jarlsberg Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | Norway |
| Specific Origin | — | Jarlsberg, Vestfold, Norway |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Pasteurized |
| Texture | Soft, soft-ripened | Semihard |
| Rind | Bloomy | Plastic-covered |
| Aging | — | Three months to twelve months |
| Taste | Buttery | Mild, sweet, nutty |
Taste Comparison: Does Boursault Cheese Taste Like Jarlsberg Cheese?
Boursault Cheese reads as buttery, while Jarlsberg Cheese brings mild, sweet, nutty character.
Can You Substitute Boursault Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?
In most recipes, Boursault Cheese and Jarlsberg Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect soft, soft-ripened bite and body where the recipe calls for semihard. Flavor-wise, Boursault Cheese reads as buttery while Jarlsberg Cheese brings mild, sweet, nutty notes.
Which Is Better, Boursault Cheese or Jarlsberg Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a soft, soft-ripened cheese, go with Boursault Cheese. For a semihard profile, Jarlsberg Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Boursault Cheese suits recipes that want buttery notes, while Jarlsberg Cheese fits dishes calling for mild, sweet, nutty.
Which is your favorite?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boursault Cheese the same as Jarlsberg Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Boursault Cheese originates in France, while Jarlsberg Cheese comes from Norway.
Is Boursault Cheese similar to Jarlsberg Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Boursault Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Boursault Cheese taste like Jarlsberg Cheese?
Boursault Cheese reads as buttery, while Jarlsberg Cheese is mild, sweet, nutty.
What is Boursault Cheese made of?
Boursault Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It originates in France.
What is Jarlsberg Cheese made of?
Jarlsberg Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized), using animal rennet. It's typically aged three months to twelve months. It originates in Norway.
Which should I choose, Boursault Cheese or Jarlsberg Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Boursault Cheese is soft, soft-ripened, while Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard.