Top 10 Dutch Cheeses to Try in 2026

The Netherlands is the world's largest cheese exporter and home to centuries of dairy tradition. These are the essential Dutch cheeses.

Location: NL2026107 viewsMar 12, 2026 Updated Oct 3, 2026

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#1
Gouda (Aged)
Deep caramel-coloured aged Gouda with crystalline crunch and rich butterscotch flavour.
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#2
Edam
The iconic red-waxed sphere with a mild, slightly nutty taste that travels the world.
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#3
Gouda (Young)
Soft, creamy, and mild young Gouda perfect for sandwiches and everyday Dutch cooking.
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#4
Leyden (Leidse Kaas)
A distinctive cumin-spiced cheese from Leiden with a tangy, aromatic character.
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#5
Maasdam
The Dutch answer to Swiss Emmental with large holes and a sweet, nutty flavour.
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#6
Boerenkaas (Farmhouse)
Artisanal raw-milk farmhouse cheese with complex flavours that vary from farm to farm.
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#7
Beemster
Premium cheese from the UNESCO-listed Beemster Polder made with rich pasture-fed cow's milk.
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#8
Old Amsterdam
A sharp, intensely flavoured aged cheese with a distinctive black wax rind beloved worldwide.
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#9
Geitenkaas (Goat Cheese)
Tangy Dutch goat cheese ranging from creamy fresh rounds to crumbly aged varieties.
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#10
Truffle Gouda
A modern Dutch classic infusing creamy Gouda with aromatic black truffle shavings.
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Frequently asked questions

What are the most popular Dutch cheeses to try?

Gouda, Edam, and Maasdam are among the top Dutch cheeses, with variations like young, aged, and smoked offering distinct flavors.

How does the aging of Dutch cheese affect its taste?

Young Dutch cheeses (e.g., 4 weeks) are mild and creamy, while aged varieties (e.g., over 1 year) become harder, crumbly, and develop intense, nutty flavors.

What is the best way to serve Dutch cheese?

Serve Dutch cheese at room temperature on a wooden board with bread, fruit, and mustard or honey to enhance its flavor.

Where can I buy authentic Dutch cheese outside the Netherlands?

Look for specialty cheese shops, Dutch delis, or online retailers that import directly from Dutch farms; supermarkets often carry mass-produced versions.

Which Dutch cheese is best for beginners?

Young Gouda or Edam are mild, buttery, and widely accessible, making them ideal for those new to Dutch cheeses.