Fontina-Style Cheese vs Jarlsberg Cheese

Q: Is Fontina-Style Cheese the same as Jarlsberg Cheese?

No. Fontina-Style Cheese and Jarlsberg Cheese are distinct cheeses. See the side-by-side table for the specific differences in milk type, texture, and aging.

Q: Can I substitute Fontina-Style Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?

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

Q: Does Fontina-Style Cheese taste like Jarlsberg Cheese?

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

Q: Which should I choose, Fontina-Style 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.

Fontina-Style Cheese

Jarlsberg Cheese

Fontina-Style Cheese is a cheese, while Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard and made from cow milk, originating in Norway.

What Is Fontina-Style Cheese?

Fontina-Style cheese is a semi-soft cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor. It draws inspiration from traditional Italian Fontina but is often made in various regions outside Italy. The cheese has a pale yellow interior with a few small holes and a natural rind. It melts well, making it a popular choice for cooking, particularly in sauces and fondues. The flavor is buttery and slightly earthy, which pairs well with a variety of foods. Fontina-Style cheese can be sliced for sandwiches or served as part of a cheese platter. It is also a good companion to fruits and nuts, enhancing its mild sweetness.

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 Fontina-Style Cheese and Jarlsberg Cheese?

Side-by-Side Comparison

	Fontina-Style Cheese	Jarlsberg Cheese
Country of Origin	—	Norway
Specific Origin	—	Jarlsberg, Vestfold, Norway
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 Fontina-Style Cheese Taste Like Jarlsberg Cheese?

Their flavor profiles are distinct.

Can You Substitute Fontina-Style Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?

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

Which Is Better, Fontina-Style 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 Fontina-Style Cheese the same as Jarlsberg Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses.

Is Fontina-Style Cheese similar to Jarlsberg Cheese?

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

Can I substitute Fontina-Style Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?

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

Does Fontina-Style Cheese taste like Jarlsberg Cheese?

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

What is Fontina-Style Cheese made of?

Fontina-Style Cheese is made from milk.

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, Fontina-Style Cheese or Jarlsberg Cheese?

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