Havarti Cheese vs Pepper Jack Cheese

Havarti Cheese

Pepper Jack Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Havarti Cheese and Pepper Jack Cheese, including:

  • "What is the difference between Havarti Cheese and Pepper Jack Cheese?"
  • "Is Havarti Cheese and Pepper Jack Cheese the same?"
  • "How does Havarti Cheese compare to Pepper Jack Cheese cheese?"
  • "How does the taste of Havarti Cheese compare to Pepper Jack Cheese?"
  • "Is Havarti Cheese or Pepper Jack Cheese better?"

Havarti Cheese Overview

Havarti is a semi-soft Danish cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy flavor. It is typically made from cow's milk and is a table cheese that can be sliced, grilled, or melted. Havarti may also be flavored with spices, herbs, or other additives to enhance its taste.

Pepper Jack Cheese Overview

Pepper Jack cheese is a derivative of Monterey Jack that includes spicy chili peppers, bell peppers, and herbs. This American cheese is known for its mild, creamy texture contrasted with the lively heat of the peppers. It's popular in sandwiches, on burgers, and melted in dishes where a spicy kick is desired.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Havarti Cheese comes from Denmark. Pepper Jack Cheese originated from United States.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Havarti Cheese has a PGI (2010). Pepper Jack is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Havarti Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Pepper Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Havarti Cheese has a fat content of max 50% moisture, min 23% fat and a moisture content of 40–45% (typically). Havarti's texture can be described as "smooth". Pepper Jack's texture can be described as "semi-soft".

Taste and Aroma

Havarti Cheese has a mild, buttery taste. Havarti's aroma can be described as "pungent aroma, earthy taste".

Appearance and Aging

Havarti Cheese's appearance is available in rectangular .

Rind and Rennet Type

Havarti Cheese's rind is described as washed rind .

Ranking

Havarti is ranked #8 out of 996 types based on community views. Pepper Jack is ranked #113 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

Havarti Pepper Jack
Best Pairings Kolsch, Pinot Gris, Riesling Chorizo
Other Good Pairings Apples, Asian Pear, Asparagus, Belgian Blonde, California Viogniers, Champagne, Crackers, Dirty Martini, Green Apple, Green Tea, Grilled Cheese, Hard Cider, IPA, Kombucha, Pistachios, Sauvignon Blanc, Shrimp, Sparkling Rosé, Viognier IPA, Tacos

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Havarti and Pepper Jack pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Havarti Cheese Pepper Jack Cheese
Country of Origin Denmark United States
Specific Origin No Specific Location Not Specified
Certification PGI (2010) Not Specified
Milk Type Cow's milk Cow's milk
Milk Treatment Pasteurized Pasteurized
Fat Content Max 50% moisture, min 23% fat Not Specified
Moisture Content 40–45% (Typically) Not Specified
Rind Washed rind Not Specified
Texture Smooth Semi-soft
Taste Mild, buttery Not Specified
Aroma Pungent aroma, earthy taste Not Specified
Forms Rectangular Not Specified

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a smooth cheese, go for Havarti. But if you enjoy a semi-soft consistency, Pepper Jack might be the better pick.

Compare Havarti Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pepper Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses

Did you find what you are looking for?