Exmoor Blue Cheese vs Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Exmoor Blue Cheese is a soft cow-milk cheese, while Sharp Cheddar Cheese is semi-hard, artisan and made from cow milk, originating in United States.

What Is Exmoor Blue Cheese?

Exmoor Blue Cheese is a full-fat soft blue-veined cheese made from unpasteurized Jersey cow’s milk in Devon and Somerset, England. It has a rich yellow color and a buttery texture, with an average fat content of 34%. The cheese has been handmade on Willet Farm since 1986, using traditional methods. It undergoes a maturation period of 3 to 6 weeks, during which it is regularly turned and treated with Penicillium roqueforti and Penicillium candidum to develop its distinctive blue veining. The lush pasture of the region, influenced by the warm, wet climate and red sandstone soil, contributes to the rich flavor of the milk used in production.

What Is Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

Sharp Cheddar is a semi-hard cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk, commonly produced in the United States. It is known for its strong and tangy flavor with a sharpness that intensifies as it ages. The texture is firm yet slightly crumbly, making it ideal for slicing or grating. The cheese has a natural rind that develops during the aging process, adding to its character. Sharp Cheddar is often used in cooking, adding bold flavor to dishes like mac and cheese or grilled sandwiches. It pairs well with apples, nuts, and hearty breads, and is a favorite on cheese boards.

What's the Difference Between Exmoor Blue Cheese and Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

• Milk treatment: Exmoor Blue Cheese (Unpasteurized), Sharp Cheddar Cheese (pasteurized)
• Texture: Exmoor Blue Cheese (Soft), Sharp Cheddar Cheese (semi-hard, artisan)
• Rind: Exmoor Blue Cheese (Treated with Penicillium candidum), Sharp Cheddar Cheese (natural)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does Exmoor Blue Cheese Taste Like Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

Their flavor profiles are distinct.

Can You Substitute Exmoor Blue Cheese for Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

In most recipes, Exmoor Blue Cheese and Sharp Cheddar Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect soft bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-hard, artisan.

Which Is Better, Exmoor Blue Cheese or Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a soft cheese, go with Exmoor Blue Cheese. For a semi-hard, artisan profile, Sharp Cheddar Cheese is the better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Exmoor Blue Cheese the same as Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses.

Is Exmoor Blue Cheese similar to Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.

Can I substitute Exmoor Blue Cheese for Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.

Does Exmoor Blue Cheese taste like Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.

What is Exmoor Blue Cheese made of?

Exmoor Blue Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized), using vegetarian rennet. It's typically aged 3 to 6 weeks.

What is Sharp Cheddar Cheese made of?

Sharp Cheddar Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It originates in United States.

Which should I choose, Exmoor Blue Cheese or Sharp Cheddar Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Exmoor Blue Cheese is soft, while Sharp Cheddar Cheese is semi-hard, artisan.