Juustoleipä

Juustoleipä, often called "ostakakku" in Swedish-speaking Finland or simply "Finnish squeaky cheese" in English, is a traditional Finnish cheese with a unique texture and preparation method. It is a type of fresh cheese, typically made from cow's milk. The cheese is characterized by its firm, somewhat rubbery texture which produces a distinctive squeaking sound when bitten into, hence its common English nickname.

The production of juustoleipä involves heating the milk, adding a rennet, and then separating the curds from the whey. Unlike many cheeses, juustoleipä is often baked or baked-like after the curds are formed, which contributes to its firm texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. Some variations involve brining the cheese.

Juustoleipä is a versatile ingredient in Finnish cuisine. It is commonly enjoyed baked or fried, often served with cloudberry jam or other berry preserves. It can also be cubed and added to salads, soups, or casseroles. It is also a popular dessert cheese, sometimes served warm with a sprinkle of sugar and cinnamon. The cheese is relatively mild and does not have a strong aroma. Its distinct squeakiness is a defining characteristic that sets it apart from other cheeses.