Description
Harbison Cheese is a luxuriously creamy, soft-ripened cheese wrapped in fragrant spruce bark, giving it a subtle woodsy depth. Its gooey, spoonable center makes it perfect for spreading, baking, or dipping. This recipe highlights how to serve Harbison in its purest form—warm, melty, and full of rich, buttery flavor—with the perfect pairings to complement its earthy, nutty undertones.
Ingredients
Scale
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 wheel of Harbison Cheese (8 oz) – Keep the spruce bark intact for the best presentation.
- 1 fresh baguette or artisanal crackers – For a crisp contrast.
- 2 tbsp honey – Enhances the buttery, nutty notes.
- ¼ cup fig jam or fruit preserves – Adds a sweet balance.
- 1 small bunch of grapes or sliced pears – Provides a refreshing contrast.
- ¼ cup toasted nuts (walnuts or almonds) – For added crunch.
Optional Additions:
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme – For an aromatic touch.
- 1 small head roasted garlic – Adds a rich, savory layer.
- 2 tbsp caramelized onions – Deepens the flavor.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheese for Serving:
- Remove Harbison from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before serving to allow the center to soften.
- Keep the spruce bark intact and place the cheese in its wooden container on a serving board.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top rind to reveal the gooey, creamy center.
2. Warm the Cheese for a Melted Texture (Optional):
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cheese in an oven-safe dish, keeping the spruce bark wrap intact.
- Score the top rind with a shallow “X” to help the cheese open as it melts.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the center is soft, warm, and oozy.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
3. Assemble the Perfect Cheese Board:
- Arrange sliced baguette or crackers around the cheese.
- Drizzle honey over the warm cheese for a touch of sweetness.
- Spoon fig jam on the side for a fruity contrast.
- Add fresh grapes, sliced pears, and toasted nuts to balance the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme for an elegant finish.
4. Enjoy!
Scoop the creamy center onto crackers, bread, or fruit, and savor the rich, buttery, and earthy flavors.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, bake the cheese with roasted garlic or caramelized onions.
- Pair with wine: Harbison pairs beautifully with Chardonnay, Champagne, or Pinot Noir.
- For a bolder taste, serve with cured meats like prosciutto or smoked almonds.
- Storage Tip: Wrap leftovers in parchment paper and refrigerate in an airtight container. Best enjoyed within 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Cheese Board
- Method: Baked, Served Fresh
- Cuisine: American, Artisan Cheese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 oz cheese with accompaniments
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Harbison cheese recipe, gourmet cheese appetizer, baked soft cheese, artisan cheese board, Vermont cheese, best cheese for pairing, bloomy rind cheese