Keisarinna

Cheese Type: Semi Hard

Country: Finland

Milk Type: Cow

Keisarinna, whose name means “Empress” in Finnish, is a rich Finnish cheese made with added cream. It belongs to the small family of Nordic double-cream cheeses designed for indulgence rather than everyday utility.

Flavor Profile

The added cream produces a soft, luxuriously smooth texture that becomes almost spreadable at room temperature. The flavor is mild, buttery, and gently sweet with a clean dairy finish and very little acidity. It is delicate rather than assertive, with richness doing the work that tang does in other cheeses.

How to Serve

Serve at room temperature so the texture softens fully. Keisarinna is best appreciated simply, spread on crispbread or good crusty bread with minimal accompaniment. It is a natural fit for a Nordic-themed board and pairs beautifully with tart berry preserves that cut the richness.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair with a sparkling wine, a Chardonnay, or a light wheat beer. Serve with lingonberry or cloudberry jam, fresh berries, and rye crispbread.

Storage

Wrap in wax paper and refrigerate. High moisture and fat mean it is best consumed within ten days to two weeks of cutting.