Fontal Cheese vs Jarlsberg Cheese

Q: Is Fontal Cheese the same as Jarlsberg Cheese?

No. Fontal Cheese and Jarlsberg Cheese are distinct cheeses from Italy and Norway respectively. See the side-by-side table for the specific differences in milk type, texture, and aging.

Q: Can I substitute Fontal Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?

In most recipes you can swap Fontal Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese, though the result will shift in flavor and finish.

Q: Does Fontal Cheese taste like Jarlsberg Cheese?

They have distinct flavor profiles. See the side-by-side table above for details.

Q: Which should I choose, Fontal Cheese or Jarlsberg Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture and flavor rows in the table above are the best guide. Pick the one whose profile fits your recipe or board.

Fontal Cheese

Jarlsberg Cheese

Fontal Cheese is a cheese from Italy, while Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard and made from cow milk, originating in Norway.

What Is Fontal Cheese?

Fontal is a semi-soft Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, somewhat sweet flavor, making it a popular choice for cooking and snacking. Fontal melts well, making it ideal for fondues, grilled cheese sandwiches, and pizza toppings.

What Is Jarlsberg Cheese?

Jarlsberg is a famous Norwegian cheese, known for its distinctive sweet and nutty taste. It is a semi-soft cheese with large, round holes. Jarlsberg is versatile and can be sliced, grilled, or melted. It is often used in sandwiches, as a burger topping, or simply enjoyed on its own.

What's the Difference Between Fontal Cheese and Jarlsberg Cheese?

Origin: Fontal Cheese (Italy), Jarlsberg Cheese (Norway)

Side-by-Side Comparison

	Fontal Cheese	Jarlsberg Cheese
Country of Origin	Italy	Norway
Specific Origin	—	No Specific Location
Milk Type	—	Cow's milk
Milk Treatment	—	Pasteurized
Texture	—	Semihard
Rind	—	Plastic-covered
Aging	—	Three months to twelve months
Taste	—	Mild, sweet, nutty

Taste Comparison: Does Fontal Cheese Taste Like Jarlsberg Cheese?

Their flavor profiles are distinct.

Can You Substitute Fontal Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?

Fontal Cheese can stand in for Jarlsberg Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.

Which Is Better, Fontal Cheese or Jarlsberg 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 Fontal Cheese the same as Jarlsberg Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Fontal Cheese originates in Italy, while Jarlsberg Cheese comes from Norway.

Is Fontal Cheese similar to Jarlsberg Cheese?

Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.

Can I substitute Fontal Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.

Does Fontal Cheese taste like Jarlsberg Cheese?

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

What is Fontal Cheese made of?

Fontal Cheese is made from milk. It originates in Italy.

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, Fontal Cheese or Jarlsberg Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.