Grocery
Finnish Juustoleipä Cheese
What it is
Juustoleipä, also known as Finnish squeaky cheese, is a semi-firm, fresh cheese traditionally made from cow's milk. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a distinctive texture that can squeak when bitten into. The cheese is typically baked or grilled, which gives it a slightly browned exterior and a wonderfully soft, almost creamy interior. Its unique properties make it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes, offering a delightful textural contrast.
How people cook with it
This cheese is a specialty item that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from simple snacking to more elaborate culinary creations.
- Baked as a dessert
- Grilled with fruit
- Added to savory pies
- Served with coffee
Juustoleipä is best prepared by heating. It can be sliced and baked in the oven until warm and slightly golden, or grilled on a pan. A popular method is to serve it warm with a drizzle of cloudberry jam or lingonberry preserves, creating a delightful sweet and savory combination. It can also be incorporated into savory dishes, such as baked into casseroles or added to gratins, where its texture softens further. Some enjoy it simply sliced and served with coffee, a traditional Finnish practice.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike many other cheeses that are consumed raw or melted into sauces, Juustoleipä is specifically designed to be heated. This process transforms its texture, making it soft and yielding while retaining a slight chewiness, a characteristic not found in cheeses meant for cold consumption or typical melting.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to explore unique dairy products will appreciate this cheese.
How to keep the rest
To store leftover Juustoleipä, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It should be kept refrigerated. Consume within a few days to best enjoy its unique texture and flavor.