Andy Montoya
Cheddar cheese is a beloved staple in many households, and there are thousands of varieties to choose from. When it comes to extra sharp cheddar, the options can be overwhelming. Extra sharp cheddars are usually aged for two years, resulting in a distinct, nutty flavour. In the United States, Tillamook's extra sharp cheddar is widely available and has a dedicated fan base, even winning 1st place in the cheddar category at the American Cheese Society Conference in 2023. However, for those looking for something more artisanal, a 100-year-aged extra sharp cheddar from an Amish area cheese house in Ohio was described as the best ever tasted. Other popular options include Cracker Barrel, Cabot, and Kerrygold.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tillamook, Cracker Barrel, Cabot, Kerrygold, Boar's Head, Sargento, Old Quebec, Old Croc, Cathedral City, Gardners, Black Wax, Hoffman's Super Sharp Cheddar, Rustic Red, Deer Creek, Roelli, Hook's, Hennings |
| Color | Pale Yellow, Orange, White |
| Texture | Creamy, Crumbly, Dry, Melt-in-the-mouth |
| Taste | Sharp, Sweet, Tangy, Funky, Salty, Sophisticated, Zesty, Buttery, Nutty |
| Age | 2 years |
| Availability | Widely available in grocery stores across the U.S. |
| Price | $6 per lb |
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What You'll Learn
Best extra sharp cheddar cheese for grilled cheese
When it comes to grilled cheese, extra sharp cheddar is a popular choice for its bold, nutty flavour and excellent melting properties. While the "sharpness" of cheddar is not an official designation, extra sharp cheddars are typically aged for around two years, contributing to their strong flavour and semi-firm texture.
One well-regarded option for extra sharp cheddar is Tillamook, which won first place in the cheddar category at the American Cheese Society 2023 Conference. This cheese is widely available in US grocery stores and known for its strong flavour and meltability. Another popular brand is Cracker Barrel, which offers a range of cheddars, including extra sharp varieties, that are now owned and operated by European dairy giant Lactalis.
For those looking to experiment with different cheeses in their grilled cheese, a combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère or Raclette can create a sandwich with a gooey, nostalgic feel and added complexity. Other recommended cheeses to pair with cheddar include gouda, fontina, and brie, along with various vegetables, fruits, and sauces.
Ultimately, the best cheese for a grilled cheese sandwich comes down to personal preference. While some prefer the bold flavour of extra sharp cheddar, others may opt for milder options like mild cheddar or American cheese. Experimenting with different combinations of cheese, bread, and additional ingredients can lead to the discovery of your perfect grilled cheese sandwich.
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Best extra sharp cheddar cheese for mac and cheese
When it comes to making mac and cheese, the cheese you choose is incredibly important. A bad batch of mac and cheese can be bland, mushy, or dry. The cheese you select will affect the taste and texture of the sauce.
Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for mac and cheese, and sharp cheddar is the most popular variety. Its strong flavour and fairly low melting point make it ideal for coating your noodles. It also strikes the right balance between meltability and flavour. Extra-sharp cheddar has a more pronounced, tangier flavour than mild or sharp cheddar, but it may not melt as well. It's best to buy a block of cheese and grate it yourself for the best results.
If you're making mac and cheese, you might want to experiment with other types of cheese as well. Gruyère, for example, melts nicely and has a salty, nutty flavour that can enhance the dish. Gouda is another underrated option that melts beautifully and gives your mac a sophisticated taste without being too pretentious. Cream cheese, brie, and goat cheese are also excellent choices that will give you a creamy, decadent mac and cheese.
Ultimately, the best extra-sharp cheddar cheese for mac and cheese will depend on your personal preferences. If you want a stronger flavour, go for extra-sharp cheddar, but if you're concerned about meltability, a sharp or mild cheddar may be a better option. You can also try blending different types of cheese to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
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Best extra sharp cheddar cheese for snacks
When it comes to extra sharp cheddar cheese, there are many options to choose from. Extra sharp cheddars are usually aged for two years, and they offer a nutty flavour and a semi-firm texture.
One of the most popular options for extra sharp cheddar is Tillamook, which is widely available in the US and has a strong, sharp flavour. In 2023, Tillamook won first place in the cheddar category at the American Cheese Society Conference. The cheese has a distinctive orange hue, though it should be noted that cheddar is naturally white and the orange colour is added. Tillamook is a good option for snacking, melting on top of a baked potato, or even on apple pie.
Another popular option is Cracker Barrel, a classic Vermont sharp cheddar that is tasty and affordable. The cheese is shaped into little squares, making it ideal for piling on crackers. Cracker Barrel cheese has a strong, nutty flavour and is also great for melting in grilled cheese.
For those looking for a more premium option, Cabot's sharp cheddar is a popular choice in the Northeast. The cheese has a comforting abundance of craters and irregularities, with a pale-yellow colour. It offers a bright, sharp flavour with a mellow sweetness, and a creamy yet crumbly texture.
Other options for extra sharp cheddar cheese include Kerrygold, Westminster, and Sargento. For those seeking an aged cheddar, the Cave Aged Cheddar from England, found at Aldi, is a flavourful option.
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Best extra sharp cheddar cheese for soups
When it comes to soups, a good extra sharp cheddar cheese can add a delicious tanginess and depth of flavour. While there are many excellent options available, some stand out for their quality and versatility. Here are some of the best extra sharp cheddar cheeses for soups:
Tillamook Extra Sharp Cheddar: This award-winning cheese from Oregon has a dedicated fan base. Naturally aged for 15 to 24 months, it has a unique fudgy texture and subtle notes of candied pecans. While it may not be the sharpest, its well-rounded flavour and slight funkiness make it a solid choice for soups.
Cabot Extra Sharp Cheddar: While Cabot offers a range of cheddars, their extra sharp variety stands out. It has a creamy, slightly sticky texture with a subtle sweetness. Although it may not be the sharpest option, it has a powerful flavour profile that can enhance the taste of soups.
Cracker Barrel Extra Sharp Cheddar: This classic, well-known cheese brand delivers a high-quality sharp cheddar. It has a pleasant, well-rounded flavour and a good texture that is not too pliable or crumbly. Cracker Barrel's sharpness and nuttiness make it an excellent choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, and it can also add a nice kick to soups.
Trader Joe's English Coastal Cheddar: This English cheddar, imported from the Dorset Downs and the Jurassic Coast, has a unique hazelnutty flavour and a tangy finish. While it may not be the sharpest, its smooth, crumbly texture and flavourful profile make it a tasty option for soups.
Boar's Head Vermont Cheddar: Although not advertised as extra sharp, this cheese has a distinct tang that sets it apart. With a well-rounded flavour and a bit of funk, it can be a great choice for those looking for something different to add to their soups.
When choosing the best extra sharp cheddar cheese for soups, consider your personal preference for sharpness, flavour, and texture. These options provide a range of characteristics that can elevate your soup-making experience.
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Best extra sharp cheddar cheese for a cheese platter
When it comes to extra sharp cheddar cheese, there are a few brands that stand out. In a blind taste test conducted by FlowersTales, Tillamook Sharp Cheddar was the preferred choice. This cheese, aged for over 9 months, is widely available in California and some parts of Florida. It is also a good option for those looking for a cheese with a natural orange hue.
Cabot, a well-known brand in the Northeast, offers a range of sharp cheddars, including their Legacy Collection Alpine Cheddar Cheese and the Vermont Sharp, which was praised for its craftsmanship, bright notes of sharpness, and mellow sweetness. In a taste test by CultureCheeseMag, Cabot's sharp cheddar emerged as the winner, beating out other popular brands like Cracker Barrel, Westminster, and Stop and Shop.
Speaking of Cracker Barrel, this classic brand, now owned by Lactalis, offers a range of cheddars, including sharp and extra sharp varieties. While the presentation and texture may not be to everyone's liking, it is a good option for those seeking a tasty, affordable cheese that pairs well with crackers.
For those seeking a true extra sharp cheddar, it might be worth seeking out specialty shops or artisanal cheeses. One person recounted tasting a 100-year-aged extra sharp cheddar in Ohio, which they described as the best they'd ever tasted. While such extreme aging may not be necessary, it is worth considering the aging process, as age and temperature give cheese its character.
When creating a cheese platter, it is essential to consider the balance of flavors, textures, and presentations. Extra sharp cheddar cheeses tend to have a stronger flavor, so pairing them with milder cheeses can create a nice contrast. Additionally, consider adding accompaniments like crackers, pickles, or fruits to enhance the overall tasting experience.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several extra sharp cheddar cheeses that are widely considered to be the best. These include:
- Cabot 5-year or 10-year
- Tillamook extra sharp white
- Cracker Barrel extra sharp yellow cheddar
- Sargento Extra Sharp Cheddar
- Wisconsin's 75+ years aged cheddar
A good extra sharp cheddar cheese should have a sharp, nutty flavor, a crumbly yet creamy texture, and an appealing presentation.
Some popular brands of extra sharp cheddar cheese include Kerrygold, Cracker Barrel, Cabot, Westminster, and Tillamook.
Extra sharp cheddar cheese can typically be found at your local grocery store or specialty food stores.
Extra sharp cheddar cheese is typically made from pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes. Some cheeses may also contain additional ingredients such as annatto, herbs, or spices to enhance flavor or color.
