Discovering the Joy of Bliss Cheese

Cheese lovers, prepare to embark on a delightful journey into the world of Bliss Cheese! Known for its rich, buttery flavors and unique textures, Bliss Cheese varieties are a standout in the artisan cheese scene. Whether you're savoring the squeaky, heat-and-eat Golden Baked Bliss from Wisconsin or the earthy, bloomy-rinded Constant Bliss from Vermont, these cheeses offer something special for every palate. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of Bliss Cheese, their origins, how to enjoy them, and why they’re a must-try for your next gathering.

What Is Bliss Cheese?

Bliss Cheese refers to a collection of artisan cheeses that share a name inspired by their indulgent, joyful qualities. While the term “Bliss” is used by different producers, it’s most commonly associated with two distinct varieties: Golden Baked Bliss, a Wisconsin bread cheese, and Constant Bliss, a semi-soft cheese from Vermont. Each brings its own charm, rooted in traditional cheesemaking techniques and local ingredients, making them perfect for snacking, entertaining, or elevating your culinary creations.

Types of Bliss Cheese

Let’s dive into the main varieties of Bliss Cheese and what makes them unique:

1. Golden Baked Bliss (Cheese Brothers, Wisconsin)

• Description: Known as “bread cheese” in Wisconsin, Golden Baked Bliss is a baked, buttery, and squeaky cheese that’s best served hot. It’s made from pasteurized cow’s milk and comes in multiple flavors, including Original, Italian (with garlic, herbs, and red pepper), Bacon, Cranberry, Jalapeño, and Garlic.

• Flavor Profile: Rich, creamy, and slightly nutty, with a crispy exterior when heated. Flavored varieties add bold notes, like the spicy kick of Jalapeño or the sweet-tart burst of Cranberry.

• Texture: Firm yet melty when warmed, with a signature squeak similar to cheese curds.

• How to Enjoy:

  • Skillet: Heat in a dry non-stick pan on medium-high for 5 minutes per side to achieve a golden crust.

  • Grill: Place on foil and grill for 5–10 minutes until hot and gooey.

  • Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.

  • Microwave: Heat for 15 seconds to 1 minute for a quick melt.

  • Pair with marinara sauce, Cherry Lavender Jam, or balsamic vinegar for dipping. Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks or alongside charcuterie.

• Best For: Party hosts, snack enthusiasts, or anyone craving a warm, indulgent treat.

2. Constant Bliss (Jasper Hill Farm, Vermont)

• Description: A semi-soft, bloomy-rinded cheese made from pasteurized cow’s milk, matured in Jasper Hill’s cellars. Named after a Vermont settler, it’s a nod to the region’s history.

• Flavor Profile: Rich, buttery, and sweet with a milky tang and hints of Oro Blanco grapefruit at the finish. The rind adds earthy, mushroom-like notes.

• Texture: Creamy with a translucent paste beneath the rind and a denser, cake-like core. The rind is chewy, complementing the pliable interior.

• How to Enjoy:

  • Serve at room temperature to highlight its creamy texture and complex flavors.

  • Pair with crackers, fresh fruits like strawberries, or crusty bread for a picnic or cheese board.

  • Enjoy with light-bodied white wines or crisp ciders to balance its richness.

• Best For: Cheese connoisseurs, picnickers, or those seeking a versatile, elegant cheese that holds up well out of refrigeration.

Origins and Craftsmanship

Golden Baked Bliss

Produced by Cheese Brothers in Barron, Wisconsin, Golden Baked Bliss is rooted in the state’s tradition of bread cheese (juustoleipä), brought by Finnish immigrants. Made with pasteurized cow’s milk from local family farms, the cheese is crafted using methods dating back to 1919, with modern equipment for consistency. Natural seasonings like jalapeños, bacon, or cranberries are added during the curd stage, and the cheese is baked to achieve its signature texture. Vacuum-sealed for freshness, it’s shipped nationwide with careful packing to ensure quality.

Constant Bliss

Crafted by Jasper Hill Farm in Greensboro, Vermont, Constant Bliss reflects the region’s artisanal cheese renaissance. Made from pasteurized cow’s milk, it’s aged in cellars to develop its bloomy rind and complex flavors. Jasper Hill’s commitment to quality and sustainability shines through, making this cheese a favorite among foodies and families alike. Its ability to retain its shape out of refrigeration makes it a practical yet luxurious choice.

Benefits of Bliss Cheese

Bliss Cheese isn’t just delicious—it offers practical and nutritional perks:

• Versatility: Golden Baked Bliss is a heat-and-eat snack perfect for quick appetizers, while Constant Bliss shines on cheese boards or in recipes.

• Long Shelf Life: Golden Baked Bliss lasts a year sealed in the fridge (though not freezer-friendly), and Constant Bliss travels well for picnics.

• High-Quality Ingredients: Both use pasteurized milk and natural seasonings, free from artificial additives.

• Protein-Rich: Cheese is a good source of protein, supporting muscle health and satiety, making Bliss Cheese a satisfying snack.

• Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to adults, these cheeses appeal to a wide audience, with flavors ranging from mild to bold.

Tips for Enjoying Bliss Cheese

• Experiment with Pairings: Try Golden Baked Bliss with spicy jams or pickles to complement its flavors. For Constant Bliss, pair with grapes or walnuts for a classic combo.

• Storage: Refrigerate Golden Baked Bliss upon arrival and consume within a year. Constant Bliss can be stored in the fridge but is best enjoyed within a few weeks for optimal flavor.

• Presentation: For parties, cut Golden Baked Bliss into bite-sized chunks and serve with toothpicks for easy snacking. Arrange Constant Bliss whole on a board to showcase its rustic rind.

• Customize Heat Levels: With Golden Baked Bliss, choose Jalapeño for spice or Original for a milder experience to suit your guests’ preferences.

• Support Small Businesses: Cheese Brothers is a small Wisconsin brand, and Jasper Hill is a family-run operation, so your purchase supports artisan craftsmanship.

Why Bliss Cheese Stands Out

Bliss Cheese captures the essence of indulgence and innovation. Golden Baked Bliss reimagines a regional classic with modern flavors like Bacon or Italian, earning raves for its “ooey-gooey” texture and ease of preparation. Customers call it “amazing” and “worth it” for its creamy, crispy qualities. Constant Bliss, meanwhile, offers a sophisticated yet approachable experience, with its “rich, buttery sweetness” and earthy rind delighting cheese lovers at picnics and parties. Both embody the joy of cheese, fostering connection and good times.

Bliss Cheese lives up to its name, delivering pure joy in every bite. Whether you’re heating up Golden Baked Bliss for a quick, melty snack or savoring the creamy elegance of Constant Bliss at a gathering, these cheeses are sure to impress. With their rich flavors, versatile uses, and artisan roots, they’re a must-have for any cheese enthusiast. So grab a block, gather your favorite pairings, and let Bliss Cheese bring a little happiness to your table!