prunost

Prunost, or prune cheese, is a brown, caramelized whey cheese from the Nordic region that is flavored with prunes. It belongs to the brunost family, which encompasses several varieties of sweetened, sliced or spreadable whey cheeses produced by partially caramelizing whey with milk.

Production involves heating whey and milk to create a thick, caramel-like base, to which prune purée or chopped prunes are added for flavor. The mixture is then poured into molds and cooled, resulting in a firm block or a soft spread, with a dark brown color and a distinctive prune aroma and sweetness. The texture ranges from sliceable to spreadable, depending on the formulation and aging.

Prunost is typically enjoyed on bread, crispbread, or waffles, and can be used similarly to other brown cheeses. It may accompany fruit, nuts, or coffee as part of a Nordic breakfast or a cheese board. It is versatile in use, serving as a sweet counterpoint to savory toppings or as a dessert accent in some contexts.

Origin and distribution: prunost has roots in Norwegian dairy traditions and is most commonly associated with Norway, though variants and similar products appear in other Nordic countries. It is produced by several regional dairies and is available in specialty shops and online, often marketed to fans of brunost varieties or prune-flavored cheeses.

Variations and identification: product formulations vary in prune content and texture. Some versions are denser and designed for slicing, while others are softer and intended for spreading. As with other brown cheeses, prunost is relatively high in fat and sugar and is typically consumed in moderation.