What Cheeses Are Hard Cheeses?

The world of cheese is complex to say the least – not only does cheese come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, but texture is incredibly important too. In this blog, we explore the world of ‘hard’ cheeses. We’ll explore what is actually considered to be a hard cheese, how it differs from semi-hard cheese, and how to store it properly. 

So, let’s right jump in, what actually counts as a hard cheese? 

Hard cheeses are those with a low moisture content, usually between 30-40%. This results in a very firm, dense, and sometimes grainy texture. Popular examples of hard cheese include Parmigiano Reggiano or a Pecorino Romano.

Read on to learn the difference between hard and semi-hard cheese, common types of hard cheeses, and whether or not they are healthier compared to soft cheeses.

 

What is Hard Cheese?

Hard cheese is defined by its low moisture content, firm texture, and long aging process. These cheeses are typically pressed to remove excess whey and aged to allow their flavours to intensify. The result? Delicious cheese with deep, complex flavours, and a crumbly texture.

Cheese Moisture Classifications

Type Of Cheese	Moisture Content %	Fat Content %	Texture
Hard	30-40%	40%+	Very firm, dense, crumbly or grainy
Semi-Hard	35-45%	35%+	Firm, crumbly but still sliceable
Soft	45-75%	30%+	Soft, squidgy, very spreadable

 

Hard vs Semi-Hard Cheese

While the terms ‘hard’ and ‘semi hard’ cheeses are sometimes used interchangeably, true hard cheese is actually different to semi-hard cheese. We explain each in more detail below:

• Hard Cheese: Aged longer, drier, and firmer, with a moisture content of 30-40%. Often grated or shaved, they’re perfect for cooking or as toppings. Examples include Parmesan and Pecorino Romano.
• Semi-Hard Cheese: These have slightly more moisture (35-45%), with a texture that ranges from pliable to crumbly. Examples include young Cheddar and Edam – you can squish these between your fingers.

 

Popular Types Of Hard Cheeses

The world of hard cheese is vast, so we couldn’t possibly name all of them! Nevertheless, here are some of the most common types of hard cheese available on the market today:

1. Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano)

Known for its granular texture and rich, umami flavor, Parmesan is a staple in Italian cuisine. We love it to shave into Caesar salads or to grate over creamy pasta dishes.

2. Pecorino Romano

A sharp, salty cheese made from sheep’s milk, Pecorino Romano is fabulous grated over soups, pasta, or on a cracker with a sticky fig jam. 

3. Grana Padano

Similar to Parmesan but with a milder, nutty taste, Grana Padano is versatile for grating over Italian dishes, or enjoying by itself with a glass of crisp white wine.

4. Aged Gouda

This hard version of Gouda develops a caramel-like sweetness and a crumbly texture, making it a great choice for cheese boards or even melting in a fondue.

5. Comté

A French favourite, Comté is known for its dense, firm texture and nutty, slightly sweet flavour profile. Use in your favourite mac & cheese recipe, or combine with Gruyere and Emmental to make fondue.

 

Popular Types Of Semi-Hard Cheeses

1. Cheddar

A versatile cheese that ranges from mild to extra sharp, Cheddar is perfect for slicing and adding to sandwiches, melting, or pairing with apples and chutney on a charcuterie board. They may also come covered in wax, in the form of a cheese truckle. 

Learn more about truckles in our recent blog, What is a Truckle Of Cheese?

2. Gruyère

This Swiss cheese offers a creamy texture and nutty flavor, ideal for melting in fondues, using in quiches and gratins, or for topping the iconic French Onion Soup.

3. Manchego

An incredibly popular Spanish cheese, Manchego is made from sheep’s milk and has a buttery, slightly tangy flavor. Perfect for enjoying with tapas or pairing with a tangy quince paste.

Looking for a way to use up leftover manchego? Try our Manchego & Quince Canapes!

4. Emmental

Famous for its iconic holes, Emmental (also known as Emmentaler, or Emmenthal) is mild and nutty, making it a great choice for sandwiches, or melting into fondues and gratins. 

5. Cheshire

One of the oldest British cheeses, Cheshire is crumbly with a slightly tangy flavor, great for crumbling over salads or pairing with fruit.

Can You Freeze Hard Cheese?

Yes – in fact, hard cheeses freeze super well. Thanks to their low moisture content, they maintain their flavor and texture when frozen and then defrosted. To freeze your hard cheese, simply wrap the cheese tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and enjoy.

Looking for more cheese storage tips? Check out our recent blog: How To Wrap & Store Your Cheese

Ready to pair your favourite hard cheese with the perfect chutney? Explore our Cheese & Chutney Pairing Guide for inspiration! We also have a guide for Pairing Cheese & Charcuterie too!

 

All Things Cheese With Savery Grazing

At Savery Grazing, we’re a bit obsessed with all things cheese! Whether you’re a newbie wanting to get to grips with the basics, or a cheese lover expanding your knowledge, we’re here to help. For more, visit the ‘cheese’ section of our food blog, or keep up to date with us on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cheddar a Hard Cheese?

Yes, aged Cheddar is classified as a hard cheese. The longer it’s aged, the firmer and sharper it becomes. Younger Cheddars, often aged for less than six months, retain a smoother, more pliable texture and are sometimes classified as semi-hard cheeses.

Is Feta Cheese Hard Or Soft?

Feta is a soft cheese, known for its crumbly texture and tangy flavor. It contains a super high moisture content (ranging from 40-60%), so it definitely isn’t a hard, or even semi-hard cheese.

Is Wensleydale a Hard Cheese?

No, Wensleydale is not a hard cheese; it falls into the semi-hard category. Wensleydale has a crumbly yet moist texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor. Unlike hard cheeses, which are typically drier and firmer, Wensleydale retains more moisture, giving it a softer consistency.

Is Brie a Semi-Hard Cheese?

No – because of their high moisture content, cheeses like brie and camembert are considered to be soft cheeses. Unlike semi-hard cheeses, which are pressed and aged to develop a firmer consistency, Brie remains delicate and spreadable, making it a popular choice for cheese boards, appetisers, and baking until gooey.

Is Halloumi a Semi-Hard Cheese?

Yes, Halloumi is classified as a semi-hard cheese. It is a traditional Cypriot cheese made from a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk, sometimes with added cow’s milk. Halloumi is known for its firm texture and high melting point, allowing it to be grilled or fried without losing its shape.

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