When you think of truly Dutch cheese, Noord-Hollandse kaas is a name you can’t skip. Not because it’s the most well-known, but because it’s arguably the most special. Aged on the rich pasture milk from Noord-Holland, protected by European law, and available in varieties ranging from young to extra-aged. And the best part? You can order Noord-Hollandse kaas without ever leaving the house.
What makes Noord-Hollandse kaas so special?
Noord-Hollandse kaas holds a PDO status: a Protected Designation of Origin. That’s the highest recognition the European Union grants to regional products, the same status as Parmesan or Champagne. It means that Noord-Hollandse Goudakaas and Noord-Hollandse Edammer can only carry those names if they’re made from milk from cows that graze in Noord-Holland.
The region is unique. The low-lying polders and lush grass produce milk with higher fat and protein content than average. That’s what gives the cheese its characteristic creamy flavor and distinctively yellow color. Cheesemakers in Noord-Holland have been working the same way for centuries, and you can taste it.
Want to know how Noord-Hollandse kaas compares to Gouda? Check out our article on Noord-Hollandse kaas vs Goudse kaas for an in-depth comparison. You’ll find more about Gouda itself on the What is Goudse kaas? page.
From young to extra-aged: the varieties of Noord-Hollandse kaas
Noord-Hollandse kaas comes in quite a few ripening stages, each with its own character:
- Noord-Hollands Jong – soft, creamy and mild. Great for everyday use and delicious on bread.
- Noord-Hollands Jong Belegen – a little sharper, with more body. The most popular choice among cheese lovers.
- Noord-Hollands Belegen – well-balanced and full-flavored, with a hint of saltiness.
- Noord-Hollands Extra Belegen – firm and bold, with small flavor crystals just starting to form.
- Noord-Hollands Oud Zwart – long-aged, intense and packed with those signature salty cheese crystals. Nothing else quite compares.
Beyond these five core varieties, there’s also Noord-Hollandse kaas with a lower fat content (35+), such as Noord-Hollands 35+ Mild, Noord-Hollands 35+ Belegen, Noord-Hollands 35+ Pikant and Noord-Hollands 35+ Oud Zwart. The 35+ cheeses have a little less fat but keep that full Noord-Hollandse flavor.
Ordering Noord-Hollandse kaas online: why it’s better
At the supermarket, you grab a pre-packaged block from the refrigerated shelf. That piece has been sitting in plastic for weeks. At Cheese in a Box, it works differently: we cut your cheese order fresh the moment you place your order. That means:
- A fresh cut, no long-term packaging
- Far more choice in ripening stages than you’d find in a store
- Direct delivery to your door, even for small quantities
- The ability to order different varieties side by side and compare
Browse our full range of Noord-Hollandse kaas for all available varieties and weights.
Storage and serving tips for Noord-Hollandse kaas
The best place to store Noord-Hollandse kaas is in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, wrapped in cheese paper or parchment paper rather than plastic wrap. This lets the cheese breathe and keeps it from drying out. Take it out of the fridge about half an hour before serving so the flavors can fully open up.
Young Noord-Hollandse kaas melts beautifully and is ideal for cooking. Aged and extra mature varieties are best enjoyed on their own on a cheese board, perhaps with mustard or a little fig jam. The Oud Zwart also pairs surprisingly well with a robust beer or a full-bodied red wine.
Pair it with a cheese subscription
Such a fan that you’d love to receive Noord-Hollandse kaas every month? Take a look at our cheese subscription. You’ll regularly receive a selection of the finest Dutch and international cheeses, freshly cut and delivered to your door.
Have a question about Noord-Hollandse kaas or need help choosing? Feel free to send us a message. We’re happy to help you find the right cheese.