Leipäjuusto

Leipäjuusto, also known as bread cheese, is a traditional Finnish cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a pale ivory color, a firm yet yielding texture, and a distinctive squeaky bite when chewed.

Production of leipäjuusto involves curdling milk, forming the curds into blocks, and then heating and pressing the blocks to create a dense, resilient loaf. The loaves are typically baked or dried to reduce moisture and are usually cut into rectangular slices. Some producers offer smoked or lightly flavored variants.

In serving, the cheese is often heated before eating, commonly grilled or fried until the outside is lightly browned. It is traditionally paired with cloudberry jam (hillo) or other fruit preserves and is enjoyed as a dessert or snack in Finland. The flavor is mild and slightly milky, with the texture and warmth enhancing the eating experience.

Leipäjuusto is a part of Finnish culinary heritage, associated with rural dairy traditions. While most common in Finland, it has gained broader recognition, with regional variations and adaptations reflecting local dairy practices.