Description

Originally made from reindeer milk, Juustoleipa has been produced for more than 200 years in northern Finland and Sweden. The name means "bread cheese." It is unusual in that it is baked during the cheesemaking process. This "squeaky" cheese has a very buttery flavor, and the heat from baking caramelizes the sugars on the outside of the cheese to form a tasty crust similar to brown bread. Juustoleipa is an important cheese in its homeland; crucial to holiday celebrations and even marriage traditions. Mothers of eligible women used to offer suitors a cup of coffee with the cheese and, if the man liked the cheese, he married the girl!

Appearance

Slightly charred appearance.

Texture

Beneath the crust, the cheese is smooth.

Flavor

Sweet, very mild flavor, especially toward its brown crust where it has been caramelized.

Serving Suggestions

Juustoleipa can be placed directly on the grill and heated for a few minutes on each side until cheese is softened and warmed through. Juustoleipa can be tored in the refrigerator for several weeks or frozen for months.

Goes Well With

Serve as a dessert with honey, lingonberry jam, or salsa.