Derby Cheese vs Huntsman Cheese
Derby Cheese is a semi-firm, artisan cow-milk cheese from England and United Kingdom, while Huntsman Cheese is semi-hard and made from cow milk, originating in United Kingdom.
What Is Derby Cheese?
Derby is a mild, semi-firm cow's milk cheese from Derbyshire, England, with a smooth, mellow texture and a buttery flavour. It sits close to Cheddar in taste but stays softer, and its best known version is the sage-flecked Sage Derby.
What Is Huntsman Cheese?
Huntsman is a British cheese that combines Double Gloucester with Stilton in one wheel. The pairing of mild orange cheese and blue is what it is known for.
What's the Difference Between Derby Cheese and Huntsman Cheese?
- Origin: Derby Cheese (England and United Kingdom), Huntsman Cheese (United Kingdom)
- Texture: Derby Cheese (semi-firm, artisan), Huntsman Cheese (semi-hard)
- Rind: Derby Cheese (natural or waxed), Huntsman Cheese (natural)
- Taste: Derby Cheese (buttery, mild, sweet), Huntsman Cheese (buttery, smooth)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Derby Cheese | Huntsman Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | England And United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Specific Origin | Derbyshire | United Kingdom |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Texture | Semi-firm, artisan | Semi-hard |
| Rind | Natural or waxed | Natural |
| Aging | 1 to 6 months | — |
| Taste | Buttery, mild, sweet | Buttery, smooth |
Taste Comparison: Does Derby Cheese Taste Like Huntsman Cheese?
Derby Cheese reads as buttery, mild, sweet, while Huntsman Cheese brings buttery, smooth character.
Can You Substitute Derby Cheese for Huntsman Cheese?
In most recipes, Derby Cheese and Huntsman Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semi-firm, artisan bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-hard. Flavor-wise, Derby Cheese reads as buttery, mild, sweet while Huntsman Cheese brings buttery, smooth notes.
Which Is Better, Derby Cheese or Huntsman Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-firm, artisan cheese, go with Derby Cheese. For a semi-hard profile, Huntsman Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Derby Cheese suits recipes that want buttery, mild, sweet notes, while Huntsman Cheese fits dishes calling for buttery, smooth.
Which is your favorite?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Derby Cheese the same as Huntsman Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Derby Cheese originates in England and United Kingdom, while Huntsman Cheese comes from United Kingdom.
Is Derby Cheese similar to Huntsman Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Derby Cheese for Huntsman Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Derby Cheese taste like Huntsman Cheese?
Derby Cheese reads as buttery, mild, sweet, while Huntsman Cheese is buttery, smooth.
What is Derby Cheese made of?
Derby Cheese is made from cow milk. It's typically aged 1 to 6 months. It originates in England and United Kingdom.
What is Huntsman Cheese made of?
Huntsman Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in United Kingdom.
Which should I choose, Derby Cheese or Huntsman Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Derby Cheese is semi-firm, artisan, while Huntsman Cheese is semi-hard.