Jarlsberg Cheese vs Sheep's Milk Cheese

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Jarlsberg Cheese is a semihard cow-milk cheese from Norway, while Sheep's Milk Cheese is a sheep-milk cheese.

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 Is Sheep's Milk Cheese?

Sheep's milk cheese is cheese made from ewe's milk, one of the three main milks used for cheese alongside cow and goat. Because sheep milk is high in fat, these cheeses are known for a concentrated, full-bodied taste.

What's the Difference Between Jarlsberg Cheese and Sheep's Milk Cheese?

  • Milk type: Jarlsberg Cheese (cow's milk), Sheep's Milk Cheese (sheep)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Jarlsberg Cheese Sheep's Milk Cheese
Country of Origin Norway —
Specific Origin Jarlsberg, Vestfold, Norway —
Milk Type Cow's milk Sheep
Milk Treatment Pasteurized —
Texture Semihard —
Rind Plastic-covered —
Aging Three months to twelve months —
Taste Mild, sweet, nutty —

Taste Comparison: Does Jarlsberg Cheese Taste Like Sheep's Milk Cheese?

Their flavor profiles are distinct.

Can You Substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?

Jarlsberg Cheese can stand in for Sheep's Milk Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.

Which Is Better, Jarlsberg Cheese or Sheep's Milk 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 Jarlsberg Cheese the same as Sheep's Milk Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Jarlsberg Cheese is made from cow milk; Sheep's Milk Cheese uses sheep.

Is Jarlsberg Cheese similar to Sheep's Milk Cheese?

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

Can I substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.

Does Jarlsberg Cheese taste like Sheep's Milk Cheese?

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

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.

What is Sheep's Milk Cheese made of?

Sheep's Milk Cheese is made from sheep milk, using animal or microbial rennet.

Which should I choose, Jarlsberg Cheese or Sheep's Milk Cheese?

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