When Tri-State Cheese first opened its doors in Hicksville, Ohio, we started with one product: Muenster. It’s been part of our story from day one, and while we’ve grown and added all kinds of delicious cheeses since then, Muenster still holds a special place in our hearts — and in our customers' fridges.
A Brief History of Muenster
Muenster cheese has its roots in the Alsace region of France, right on the German border. It was originally made by monks in the town of Munster, and the cheese they crafted had a strong, washed rind and a bold aroma. When German and Alsatian immigrants came to America, many of them settled in the Midwest and brought their cheesemaking traditions with them.
Over time, the American version of Muenster evolved into something milder, creamier, and more approachable — but still with that signature orange rind and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It didn’t take long for it to become a Midwest favorite, showing up in lunchboxes, delis, and family meals all over the region.
Our Process: Simple. Honest. Gravity-Formed.
At Tri-State Cheese, we make our Muenster a little differently than most. We don’t use heavy presses or fancy automation. Instead, we pour the fresh curd into stainless steel mesh forms, and let gravity do the work. Over time, the curd settles naturally, forming smooth, consistent blocks without being compacted.
This hands-on, old-school method helps us retain a bit more moisture, creating that soft, creamy texture Muenster lovers expect. Each block is cared for by real people — not just machines — and that attention to detail shows up in every slice.
What Does Muenster Taste Like?
Our Muenster is:
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Mild and buttery
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Slightly tangy
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Smooth and soft in texture
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Easy to slice, melt, and snack on
It’s a cheese that plays well with others — never overpowering, always welcome.
How to Use It (and What to Pair It With)
Muenster is one of the most versatile cheeses you can keep on hand. Here are just a few ways our customers enjoy it:
Perfect for:
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Grilled cheese sandwiches
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Burgers
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Deli-style sandwiches
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Mac & cheese
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Simple snacking
Pairs well with:
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Roast turkey or ham
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Apples or grapes
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Pretzels or crusty bread
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Pale ales or light lagers
Whether you’re packing lunches or building a charcuterie board, Muenster fits right in.
Nutrition at a Glance
A 1 oz serving of Muenster typically contains:
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~110 calories
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~9g of fat
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~6g of protein
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Calcium, vitamin B12, and zero carbs
It’s a naturally gluten-free, protein-rich snack that works great for kids and adults alike.
Still the Heart of Tri-State Cheese
While we’ve added new cheeses and expanded our reach over the years, Muenster remains at the heart of what we do. It’s where we started, and it continues to reflect our values: small-batch care, quality ingredients, and time-honored methods.
Want to give it a try (or grab your favorite again)?
Ask for Tri-State Muenster at your local retailer — or stop in and say hi.