Patrick Oconnell
Cooper Sharp is a type of American cheese with a unique sharp flavour. It was first created in 1893 by I.C. Cooper, a banker who decided to change career paths and start making cheese in New York. The cheese is made with milk and aged cheddar to produce a sharp, one-of-a-kind taste. It is known for its creaminess and fast-melting properties, making it a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, and other dishes. The brand is currently owned by Wisconsin-based Schreiber Foods and has a loyal following, especially in the Northeast region of the United States.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Pasteurized processed yellow American cheese |
| Main component | Cheddar |
| Ingredients | Milk, water, cream, salt, sodium phosphate, cheese culture, enzymes |
| Manufacturer | Schreiber Foods |
| Place of origin | Theresa, New York |
| Year of origin | 1890 or 1893 |
| Flavour | Sharp, salty, creamy |
| Texture | Semi-hard |
| Melting ability | Fast-melting |
| Use cases | Sandwiches, grilled cheese, mac and cheese, burgers, omelettes, breakfast skillets, garnishes, toppings, snacks |
What You'll Learn
Cooper Sharp's history
Cooper Sharp cheese has a long history that dates back to the late 19th century. The story begins in 1890 when I.C. Cooper, a banker from Theresa, New York, decided to leave his career in finance and pursue a new path in cheesemaking. I.C. Cooper's interest in cheese led him to start ageing cheese curds, and by 1893, he had perfected the recipe for Cooper Sharp cheese.
In the beginning, Cooper Cheese was a small operation based in New York. However, in 1918, I.C. Cooper moved his company to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where the brand gained a loyal following as a beloved hometown hero. The move to Philadelphia also marked the start of selling Cooper Sharp cheese in unique wooden cases, which have become sought-after antiques.
During World War II, Cooper Cheese honoured veterans by adding the "Cooper Victory" seal to their labels, a common practice at the time to show pride in returning soldiers. This label, known as the C.V. Sharp, was developed in 1945 and continues to be a part of the brand's packaging today.
Over the years, Cooper Sharp cheese became known for its unique, sharp flavour and superior melting qualities. It is made by piping a liquified, pasteurized mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers into molds and then letting it harden. The result is a creamy, versatile cheese that can be sliced, shredded, melted, or cubed, making it perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches, deli sandwiches, mac and cheese, burgers, and more.
Today, Cooper Sharp cheese is owned by the Wisconsin-based company Schreiber Foods, but it remains a staple in supermarkets and delis throughout the Northeastern United States, especially in Philadelphia. The brand has expanded its product line to include different varieties such as Cooper Sharp White, Cooper Sharp Yellow, and Cooper Sharp Black Pepper, all while staying true to the original recipe created by I.C. Cooper over a century ago.
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Its unique, sharp flavour
Cooper Sharp is a unique, processed American cheese with a sharp flavour and a creamy texture. It is made by piping a liquified, pasteurised mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers into moulds and letting it harden. The cheese is then aged for between 100 to 180 days, resulting in its sharp taste.
The sharpness of Cooper Sharp can be attributed to the hand-selected, aged cheddar that is used as the main component, as well as the secret blend of additional ingredients. This combination gives Cooper Sharp a more cheddar-forward flavour than other American cheeses, with a hint of salty Parmesan.
The sharp flavour of Cooper Sharp is a result of the cheesemaking process and the quality of the ingredients. The cheese is made with real milk and aged cheese, giving it a one-of-a-kind taste. The sharpness is also enhanced by the ageing process, which can vary from 100 to 180 days. This ageing process allows the flavours to develop and intensify, resulting in the sharp, bold taste that Cooper Sharp is known for.
The unique, sharp flavour of Cooper Sharp has made it a favourite among chefs and home cooks in the Northeastern U.S., especially in Philadelphia. It is prized for its combination of taste and superior melting qualities, making it the ideal cheese for dishes such as cheesesteaks, grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, and burgers. The sharpness of the cheese adds a distinct flavour to these dishes, elevating them to a whole new level.
The sharp flavour of Cooper Sharp has also made it a beloved, iconic cheese for generations. It has become a family tradition and a source of comfort for many. The unique taste of Cooper Sharp brings back memories of childhood and grandma's grilled cheese sandwiches. It has earned a loyal following, with people going to great lengths to get their hands on this delicious, sharp cheese.
Its versatility
Cooper Sharp cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, both hot and cold. Its versatility is one of the reasons why it has gained a loyal following, especially in the Northeast.
The semi-hard consistency of Cooper Sharp cheese allows it to be cut, grated, shredded, sliced, melted, or cubed. It can be used as a topping, garnish, or enjoyed as a standalone snack. Its superior melting qualities make it perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches, deli sandwiches, mac and cheese, burgers, salads, and even midnight snacks.
One of the unique qualities of Cooper Sharp cheese is its ability to melt like a dream. This makes it a favourite for creating gooey, cheesy dishes. Whether you're making a classic grilled cheese sandwich or experimenting with new recipes, Cooper Sharp cheese will take your dish to the next level. It's no wonder that it has become a staple in many delis, taverns, and restaurants.
Cooper Sharp cheese is also a popular choice for cheesesteaks, a Philadelphia favourite. Its combination of taste and meltability makes it the ideal cheese for this iconic sandwich. Many pizzerias in the city use Cooper Sharp cheese when customers ask for "American" cheese on their cheesesteaks, elevating the classic dish.
In addition to sandwiches and burgers, Cooper Sharp cheese can also be used in breakfast dishes. It pairs well with eggs, whether scrambled, omelettes, or breakfast skillets. Its creamy texture and sharp flavour enhance the taste of any breakfast dish, making it a versatile morning ingredient.
Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, Cooper Sharp cheese is a versatile ingredient that can elevate your dishes. Its unique flavour, texture, and meltability make it a favourite for sandwiches, burgers, breakfast dishes, and more. So, get creative and experiment with Cooper Sharp cheese to discover new flavour profiles and culinary creations.
Its popularity
Cooper Sharp is a beloved cheese with a dedicated following, particularly in the Northeast, where it is a source of regional pride. Its popularity can be attributed to several factors, including its unique flavour, versatility, and melting qualities.
Firstly, Cooper Sharp has a distinct, sharp flavour that sets it apart from other cheeses. It is known for its creamy texture and strong cheddar-forward taste with a hint of salty Parmesan. This combination of sharpness and creaminess is a rare find in the world of cheese and has gained a cult following.
Secondly, the cheese is incredibly versatile. It can be sliced, shredded, cubed, melted, or used as a topping, garnish, or snack. This makes it a go-to ingredient for various dishes, from grilled cheese sandwiches to mac and cheese, burgers, salads, and even midnight snacks. Its versatility has made it a favourite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.
Lastly, Cooper Sharp's superior melting qualities have made it a top choice for cheese lovers. It melts like a dream, making it the perfect addition to dishes like cheesesteaks, grilled cheese, and burgers. Its melting abilities also extend to cold dishes, where it can be grated or sliced thin, adding a creamy texture without becoming a gooey mess.
The combination of its unique flavour, versatility, and melting qualities has made Cooper Sharp a beloved cheese brand. It has become a family tradition and a comfort food passed down through generations. Many customers have fond memories associated with its taste, and some go to great lengths to purchase it online if they can't find it locally.
Where to buy it
Cooper Sharp Cheese is a popular American cheese, crafted in the Northeast, with a signature creamy, melty texture. It is a staple in many family homes, particularly in Pennsylvania, and is a favourite for its sharp bite.
Where to Buy Cooper Sharp Cheese
Cooper Sharp Cheese is available to buy online and in-store. The official Cooper Cheese website recommends calling your local deli to check if they stock the cheese before you make the trip. You can also buy directly from the Cooper Cheese website, which offers shipping to your door.
If you are unable to find a local deli or store that stocks Cooper Sharp Cheese, you can fill out a form on the Cooper Cheese website to request that they supply your local retailer.
Some online retailers of Cooper Sharp Cheese include:
- S. Clyde Weaver: This online store offers 2-day shipping across the country for a flat rate.
- Schiff's Direct: This online butcher also sells Cooper Sharp Cheese.
- Cuba Cheese: This third-party distributor website offers a range of Cooper Cheese products for direct shipping to your home.
Cooper Sharp Cheese is also available in-store at some grocery stores across the United States.
Frequently asked questions
Cooper Sharp is a processed cheese with a sharp, one-of-a-kind taste. It is made with real milk and aged cheddar and has a creamy texture that melts easily.
Cooper Sharp cheese was started by I.C. Cooper, a banker who decided to become a cheesemaker in Theresa, New York, in 1890 or 1893. The company moved to Philadelphia in 1918, and the cheese became a beloved part of the city's cuisine.
Cooper Sharp cheese has a sharp flavor with a hint of saltiness. It is often compared to cheddar or Parmesan, with a unique sharpness that sets it apart from other American cheeses.
Cooper Sharp cheese is made by liquifying a mix of whey, proteins, and emulsifiers, then piping it into molds and letting it harden. The process gives it its creamy texture and superior melting qualities.
Cooper Sharp cheese is available at supermarkets and delis in the Northeastern US, particularly in Philadelphia. It can also be purchased online from select retailers.
