Search Results for: swiss
Gift Box #5 – Baby Swiss Cheese and Troyer’s Trail Bologna: A Classic Amish Country Combination
- 2 Lb. Baby Swiss Wheel
- Troyer’s Trail Bologna Ring
- 3/4 Lb. Colby
- Shisler’s Private Label Mustard
- Carr’s Crackers
- Assorted Chocolates
Smoked Baby Swiss
Smoked Baby Swiss is produced from whole milk, unlike traditional Swiss which is made from partially skimmed milk. Smoked Baby Swiss a creamier texture and a more buttery, slightly sweet flavor, which makes it ideal for melting. Light cold-smoking adds an earthiness to the flavor profile for an added smokey, cured taste.
Wine Pairings for Smoked Baby Swiss
The ideal wine pairing for Smoked Baby Swiss includes but is not limited to Pinot Noir, Merlot, and right bank Bordeaux (high Merlot content).
Ohio Swiss Cheese
Ohio Swiss Cheese or more specifically our Amish sliced swiss cheese is made locally in Pearl Valley, Ohio. The time-honored process of making swiss cheese was brought here from Switzerland by the local population of Amish and Mennonite people. At Shisler’s, we have selected what we believe to be the best locally-made swiss cheese. Our Swiss cheese can also make an excellent low-cost substitute for Gruyere cheese.
History of Swiss Cheese
Our locally made Amish swiss cheese closely resembles the original Swiss Emmental Cheese, which was originally produced in the Swiss canton of Bern. Local Swiss cheese always has a distinctive appearance, as the blocks of the cheese are riddled with holes known as “eyes”. Swiss cheese is known for its nutty, bittersweet taste. This unique look and delicious taste have made Swiss Cheese become one of the most iconic cheeses around!
What Causes the Holes in Swiss Cheese?
The process of making Swiss Cheese involves certain natural bacteria consuming the lactic acid in the cheese and releasing carbon dioxide gas, which slowly forms the bubbles that create the perfectly round holes that characterize Swiss cheese. Cheese experts often refer to these holes as “eyes.”
Why Ohio Swiss Cheese is Better
This is often debated, but generally the larger the eyes, the more pronounced the flavor of the cheese. The reason for this is the conditions that provide the ideal flavor. Longer aging at higher temperatures is the ideal condition for the enzymes and bacteria to create larger eyes. This poses a problem for makers of pre-sliced Swiss cheese. Cheese with large eyes doesn’t slice well, sometimes coming apart in mechanical slicers. This costs time and money and is one reason why US manufacturers usually produce a product less aged and flavorful than the Amish swiss cheese made in Northeastern Ohio. It is also essential that the milk used in making the cheese comes from specific types of cows that graze in specific grasses. All of those elements are present in Holmes County Ohio, and the milk is provided by local Amish farmers who do not give their cows hormones or antibiotics or add preservatives to the milk. The result is a Swiss cheese that tastes as good, if not better than the original Emmentaler that is imported from Switzerland, at approximately 1/3 the price.
Baby Swiss is another related cheese. Made by substituting water for the milk’s whey to slow bacterial action, Baby Swiss cheese has smaller holes and a milder flavor. Baby Swiss is made from whole milk. Lacy Swiss is a further variety of US small-hole Swiss cheese made with low-fat milk.
Wine Pairing for this Cheese
Ohio sliced Swiss cheese pairs very well with numerous wines, but the most popular pairings are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Beaujolais and Pinot Noir are also great matches. If you prefer white wine, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc pair well with Ohio Swiss cheese. And for the beer lover, Ohio Swiss cheese goes well with Lager, Pale Ale, and Weiss Beer.
If you prefer imports, try our Gruyere Cheese.
Lacy Swiss
Lacy Swiss is another of our lower fat and sodium alternatives. Dairy products are off limits for many diets and healthy lifestyles due to the high-fat contents in products made with whole milk. Lacy Swiss was invented by Alpine Lace Brands in 1985 in response to the growing need for healthier alternatives. Some of our other lower fat alternatives include Lucerne, Lacy Baby Swiss, and Yogurt Cheese. Lacy Swiss is sometimes mistaken for Baby Swiss due to its myriad of small holes. But Lacy Swiss is actually quite different. It is closely related to Swiss cheese, but the whole milk used to produce swiss cheese is replaced with low-fat milk to provide a healthier alternative with lower fat content. Lacy Swiss is so named because when sliced, the white to ivory-colored slices look like lace. Lacy Swiss has a delightfully light and nutty flavor, but a lower calorie and sodium content than the original Swiss cheese.
This is a great table cheese and is a great lower-calorie alternative on deli sandwiches or to top off hamburgers and patty melts. But if you’re looking to add a true Swiss flavor to a recipe, our sharper imported varieties like Jarlsberg or Gruyere may be better choices.
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 Oz., Calories: 100, Fat: 7g, Sodium: 40mg, Cholesterol: 20 mg Carbs.: 1g Protein: 8g *Values are approximate
Wine Pairing
Like its close relative Swiss cheese, it pairs very well with numerous wines. The most popular pairings are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Beaujolais and Pinot Noir are also great matches. If you prefer white wine, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc pair well with Lacy Swiss. And for the beer lover, Lacy Swiss goes well with Lager, Pale Ale, and Weiss Beer.
Sharp Swiss
Sharp Swiss cheese is a more mature version of our locally made Swiss cheese that has been aged approximately 12 months. Sharp Swiss cheese is an excellent substitute for Gruyere cheese, if you prefer the more mature variety.
What is “Sharp” Cheese?
The term “Sharp” when used in reference to cheese denotes a stronger flavor as a result of a longer aging process. Many cheese connoisseurs prefer sharper, more mature cheeses. If you prefer a more medium-sharp, then you may try our Emmentaler old-world Swiss. Some of our other more mature cheeses include Asiago, Canadian Cheddar, Manchego, Parmesan, Romano, and Sharp American. Our Orange and White cheddars are both medium sharp.
Description of Swiss Cheese
Our Amish swiss cheese is made locally in Pearl Valley, Ohio. The time-honored process for making swiss was brought here from Switzerland by the local population of Amish and Mennonite people. At Shisler’s, we have selected what we believe to be the best locally-made swiss.
History of Our Local Swiss
Our locally made Amish cheese closely resembles the original Swiss Emmental Cheese, which was originally produced in the Swiss canton of Bern. Our local cheese has a distinctive appearance, as the blocks of the cheese are riddled with holes known as “eyes”. Swiss is known for its nutty, bittersweet taste. These distinct features has transformed swiss into one of the most iconic cheeses around!
In general, the larger the eyes in a Swiss cheese, the more pronounced its flavor; this is because the same conditions that lead to large eyes—longer aging or higher temperatures—also produce a stronger flavor. This poses a problem for makers of pre-sliced Swiss. Cheese with large eyes doesn’t slice well, sometimes coming apart in mechanical slicers. This costs time and money and is one reason why US manufacturers usually produce a product less aged and flavorful than the Amish cheese made in North Central Ohio.
Baby Swiss is another related cheese. Made by substituting water for the milk’s whey to slow bacterial action, Baby Swiss has smaller holes and a milder flavor. Baby Swiss is made from whole milk. Lacy Swiss is a further variety of US small-hole Swiss made with low-fat milk.
Wine Pairing for this Cheese
Swiss pairs very well with numerous wines, but the most popular pairings are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Beaujolais and Pinot Noir are also great matches. If you prefer white wine, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc pair well with Swiss. And for the beer lover, Swiss goes well with Lager, Pale Ale, and Weiss Beer.
Have any questions? Contact us today!
Gift Box #1: Baby Swiss Cheese
Baby Swiss Cheese
This is a fantastic gift box containing a 4lb wheel of Baby Swiss cheese as well as an assortment of chocolates.
Having the whole family around during the holiday season? Grab this gift box that contains a whole 4Lb. Baby Swiss Cheese Wheel. Our Baby Swiss is made in Charm Ohio, by the original producer Guggisberg Cheese. It is a young, semi-soft whole milk cheese with small holes and a mild flavor. It also comes with chocolates for those with a sweet tooth!
Baby Swiss is another of our local selections, made in Charm, Ohio by the original producer Guggisberg Cheese. Some of Our other Signature local cheeses include Swiss, Sharp Swiss, Amish Butter Cheese, Yogurt Cheese, and several variations of each. Baby Swiss is a young, semi-soft whole milk cheese distinguishable by its myriad of small holes. Baby Swiss is closely related to Swiss cheese, made by substituting water for the milk’s whey to slow bacterial action, Baby Swiss has smaller holes and a milder flavor. Baby Swiss is often made from whole milk. Baby Swiss has a delightfully creamy and mild taste, a delicious favorite!
History of Baby Swiss
Baby Swiss originated in 1967 just outside of Charm, Ohio, and was invented by cheese connoisseur Alfred Guggisberg, an alumnus of the famous Swiss Federal “Molkereishulle” (cheese maker’s institute). The name Baby Swiss was coined by Alfred’s wife, Margaret Guggisberg, who thought that in comparison to the larger wheels of traditional Swiss cheese, when placed side by side, the new cheese looked like a baby.
We love this gift box as it feels truly special to receive a whole wheel of cheese and we know whoever you are gifting it to will absolutely love it!
- 4 Lb. Baby Swiss Wheel
- Assorted Chocolates
Baby Swiss Cheese
Baby Swiss is another of our local selections, made in Charm, Ohio by the original producer Guggisberg Cheese. Some of our other signature local cheeses include Swiss, Sharp Swiss, Amish Butter Cheese, Yogurt Cheese, and several variations of each.
Baby Swiss is a young, semi-soft whole milk cheese distinguishable by its myriad of small holes. Baby Swiss is closely related to Swiss cheese, made by substituting water for the milk’s whey to slow bacterial action, Baby Swiss has smaller holes and a milder flavor. Baby Swiss is often made from whole milk. Baby Swiss has a delightfully creamy and mild taste, a delicious favorite!
Smoked Baby Swiss is also available, along with Lacy Baby Swiss for those who prefer a lower calorie version.
History of Baby Swiss
Baby Swiss cheese originated in 1967 just outside of Charm, Ohio, and was invented by cheese connoisseur Alfred Guggisberg, an alumnus of the famous Swiss Federal “Molkereishulle” (cheese maker’s institute). The name Baby Swiss was coined by Alfred’s wife, Margaret Guggisberg, who thought that in comparison to the larger wheels of traditional Swiss cheese when placed side by side, the new cheese looked like a baby.
Wine Pairing with Baby Swiss
Like its close relative Swiss cheese, Baby Swiss pairs very well with numerous wines. The most popular pairings are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Beaujolais and Pinot Noir are also great matches. If you prefer white wine, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc pair well with Baby Swiss. And for the beer lover, Baby Swiss goes well with Lager, Pale Ale, and Weiss Beer.
*Also pictured is Shisler’s Private Label Hot Jalapeno Mustard
Baby Swiss is also included in several of our signature Gift Baskets
Valentines Day For Him
A Valentine’s Day Gift for the man in your life!
This package contains:
Swiss Cheese, Troyer’s Trail Bologna, Pepper Jack Cheese, Monster Mix, Private Label Mustard, Crackers
Christmas Breakfast Ideas With Cheese
Christmas Breakfast Ideas With Cheese
Make a festive spread to remember with our Christmas breakfast ideas with cheese. From sweet to savory, this list will have you covered!
Savory Options
- Cheesy egg and sausage casserole
A hearty baked dish layered with eggs, breakfast sausage, and loads of shredded cheddar or Gruyère. - Cheese-stuffed croissants
Flaky croissants filled with brie, cream cheese, or Gruyère, baked until golden. - Spinach and cheese breakfast strata
A layered bread casserole with spinach, eggs, and a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella. - Cheddar and chive scones
Fluffy scones packed with sharp cheddar and a touch of fresh chives. - Caprese breakfast sandwich
Fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on a toasted English muffin. - Ham and cheese puff pastry pockets
Puff pastry filled with diced ham, cream cheese, and Swiss or Gruyère. - Cheesy potato hash
Crispy potatoes tossed with melty cheddar or Pepper Jack and topped with poached eggs. - Baked brie and cranberry pastry cups
Mini puff pastry cups filled with brie, cranberry sauce, and a sprinkle of pecans. - Cheese and herb frittata
A simple yet elegant egg dish with goat cheese, feta, or ricotta and fresh herbs. Mix in a little pumpkin butter into the egg filling. - Everything bagel breakfast pizza
Bagel halves topped with cream cheese, scrambled eggs, cheddar, and bacon crumbles.
Sweet Cheese-Inspired Options
- Ricotta pancakes with honey
Light and fluffy ricotta pancakes drizzled with honey and topped with fresh berries. - Cheesecake-stuffed French toast
Thick slices of bread filled with sweetened cream cheese and dusted with powdered sugar. - Cheese Danish pastries
Classic puff pastry filled with sweetened cream cheese and topped with fruit or jam. - Apple and brie Puff pastry braid
A stunning breakfast centerpiece filled with brie, thinly sliced apples, and a touch of cinnamon sugar. - Savory- sweet cheese board
A breakfast twist on a charcuterie board featuring soft cheeses, fruits, nuts, bagels, and spreads.
Our Top Tips for a Festive Spread
We’ve broken these up into menu and general tips:
Tips for a Great Christmas Breakfast Menu
- Plan a balanced menu: Include a mix of sweet and savory items. For example, pair pancakes or pastries with egg-based dishes or casseroles. Add a variety of textures: crispy (bacon, croissants), creamy (yogurt, cheeses), and fluffy (waffles, frittatas).
- Incorporate holiday colors: Use red and green ingredients like cranberries, pomegranates, strawberries, spinach, and basil to create a festive look. Garnish dishes with edible holiday touches such as rosemary sprigs or powdered sugar “snow.”
- Have that one showstopper dish: Make one centerpiece dish, like a baked brie wreath or a Christmas tree-shaped pull-apart bread, to wow your guests.
- Prepare ahead: Choose recipes that can be made or prepped the night before, like breakfast casseroles, overnight oats, or muffin batter. Lay out serving dishes, utensils, and decorations the evening prior.
- Incorporate cheese: We are biased, but….everyone loves cheese! Right? Check out our full range here.
- Serve seasonal drinks: Prepare a festive beverage menu featuring items like cranberry mimosas, eggnog, or spiced apple cider.
- Keep portions small: Offer bite-sized portions for variety and ease, such as mini quiches, slider-style breakfast sandwiches, or muffin tin casseroles.
- Use decorative serve ware: Go for holiday-themed plates, napkins, and serving trays to tie the theme together.
- Have DIY options: Set up stations:
- Bagel bar: Include cream cheese, smoked salmon, sliced veggies, and festive toppings.
- Pancake or waffle station: Offer syrups, fresh fruit, whipped cream, and sprinkles.
- Hot chocolate bar: Provide cocoa, marshmallows, whipped cream, peppermint sticks, and chocolate shavings.
General Tips for a Great Christmas Breakfast
- Make it interactive: Include a group activity to enhance the experience, like decorating Christmas cookies or building a gingerbread house after breakfast.
- Label dishes: Add small cards to identify each dish, mainly if you include allergy-friendly or gluten-free options.
- Add personal touches: Include handwritten thank-you notes or mini Christmas crackers at each place setting to make guests feel special.
- Don’t forget the kids: Offer kid-friendly options like fruit skewers, yogurt parfaits, or Christmas-shaped pancakes with fun toppings.
Blue Cheese Tart (The Perfect Vegetarian Christmas Main)
Blue Cheese Tart (With Swiss Cheese) – A Vegetarian Main for Christmas
This homemade blue cheese tart is topped with a layer of Swiss cheese and wrapped in golden puff pastry. This elegant tart is hearty enough to be the star of the meal and pairs beautifully with festive sides.
This recipe makes the perfect vegetarian main course or a side to pair with roast turkey, ham, and so on. The creamy blue cheese combines caramelized onions and a flaky crust—the thin slices of Swiss cheese layer on top to create a golden, bubbly finish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to round up:
The pastry
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp flour (for rolling)
The filling
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 3 oz (85 g) blue cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
The topping
- 4–5 slices of Swiss cheese
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own easy, absolutely delicious blue cheese tart.
Prepare the pastry
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- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim the edges and prick the base with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Blind bake the pastry by lining it with parchment paper and filling it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.
Caramelize the onions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized, about 15–20 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Set aside to cool slightly.
Make the filling
- Whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, blue cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir in the caramelized onions.
Assemble the tart
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- Pour the filling into the pre-baked tart shell, spreading it evenly.
- Lay the Swiss cheese slices over the top, slightly overlapping to cover the surface.
Bake
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- Place the tart in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the Swiss cheese is golden and bubbling.
Serve
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- Let the tart cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a festive touch, and serve warm.
Top Tips
- Choose quality cheese: Use a creamy, blue cheese like our Glacier Wildfire Gorgonzola for a balanced flavor. Go for Swiss cheese that melts beautifully, such as Gruyère or Emmental.
- Customize add-ins: Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Prevent a soggy bottom: Ensure your tart crust is fully blind-baked before adding the filling to avoid a soggy base.
How to Store Leftovers
Cover the tart tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Slice the tart and wrap individual pieces in foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated. For a crispy crust, reheat directly on a baking sheet.
Wrapping It Up
Don’t forget to check out our full range of cheese and accompaniments. We have so much to choose from and use as gifts and ingredients.
