Calling all foodies and flavor seekers! If you think the best cheeses are the ones with a little bit of "funk," then National Moldy Cheese Day is your time to shine. While most people run away from moldy food, today we celebrate the beautiful, intentional, and delicious molds that give gourmet cheeses like Blue, Gorgonzola, and Roquefort their signature bold taste and creamy texture. It’s a day to step out of your comfort zone, grab a baguette, and indulge in the sophisticated world of artisanal cheeses. Whether you're a lifelong fan of the "blue" or a curious beginner, let's raise a wedge to the mold that makes life taste better.
🧀 National Moldy Cheese Day Countdown
Saturday
9
October 2027
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National Moldy Cheese Day Timeline
8000 BC
Cheese Making Emerges
Evidence shows that cheesemaking had begun as early as 8000 BC around the time when sheep were first domesticated.
79 AD
Cheesemaking in Ancient Rome
A Roman cookbook from first century AD contains recipes which involved the use of cheese.
15th Century
Stilton Cheese Developed
Stilton, known as the "king of English cheese," began production in the 15th Century.
17th Century
Development of Roquefort Cheese
The French Roquefort, one of the most famous blue cheeses, was first recognized by Charles VI of France in the 17th century.
1955
Bleu des Causses Granted AOC
Bleu des Causses, a French blue cheese, achieved AOC designation in 1955.
2016
National Moldy Cheese Day Celebrated
National Moldy Cheese day began to be celebrated to honor the culinary importance and diverse flavors of moldy cheeses.
How to Celebrate National Moldy Cheese Day
1
Eat moldy cheese fondue
Grate some old cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda) into a bowl and melt in the microwave. Serve it with cubes of bread or vegetables and let everyone dip away!
2
Throw a moldy cheese party
Invite friends over for an evening of celebrating National Moldy Cheese Day! Ask each guest to bring their favorite type of moldy cheese along with crackers and other accompaniments. Enjoy all the different flavors while catching up with friends.
3
Make a moldy cheese omelette
Beat two eggs until they are light and fluffy then add in some diced mushrooms, onions, and pieces of moldy cheese. Cook on low heat until the cheese has melted and serve with a side salad for a delicious breakfast or dinner.
4
Create a moldy cheese pizza
Combine pieces of various types of moldy cheese with tomato sauce and top it off with pepperoni slices for an easy yet delicious dinner!
5
Enjoy a moldy cheese plate
Put together a plate of different types of moldy cheeses and enjoy them with some crackers, nuts, olives, grapes, and your favorite wine. Allow the flavors to come alive as you take in all the different textures and aromas.
Why We Love National Moldy Cheese Day
A
Moldy cheese has a unique flavor
Moldy cheese is not your ordinary cheese - it has a distinct, earthy taste that can be surprisingly delicious. With its strong aroma and funkiness, moldy cheese packs a big flavor punch for only a small amount. Plus, because it's so pungent, you only need to use a little bit to give your dishes an intense flavor boost.
B
Moldy cheese is perfect for cooking
Moldy cheeses are amazing for adding depth and flavor to recipes like macaroni and cheese or pizza. The flavor of the mold will melt into whatever you're making, giving it a unique character no other ingredient can provide. They also add a powerful umami flavor which makes food more delicious!
C
Moldy cheese has health benefits
Moldy cheeses are high in probiotics which can help the digestive system function properly, as well as support immunity and reduce inflammation. Eating these types of cheeses on a regular basis has been linked to improved skin health, increase in energy, and better overall health!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Moldy Cheese Day?
It’s a fun food holiday dedicated to enjoying and appreciating cheeses that are aged with specific, safe types of mold, like Blue cheese and Gorgonzola.
When is National Moldy Cheese Day?
We celebrate this flavorful occasion every year on Oct 9th, a Friday in 2026, making it the perfect time to add some "funk" to your fall snack board!
Is the mold in blue cheese safe to eat?
Yes, absolutely! The molds used in cheesemaking, like Penicillium roqueforti, are specifically chosen because they are safe for humans and create amazing flavors.
What are the most popular types of moldy cheese?
The heavy hitters are definitely Blue cheese, Gorgonzola, Roquefort, and Stilton, each offering a unique level of creaminess and "bite."
How should I celebrate this day?
The best way is to host a cheese tasting! Grab a few different types of blue cheese, some honey, nuts, and crackers, and enjoy the variety of flavors.
What does moldy cheese taste like?
It’s usually a mix of salty, sharp, and tangy flavors. Some are very creamy and mild, while others can be quite pungent and intense.
What wine goes best with moldy cheese?
Sweet wines are the classic choice! A glass of Port or a sweet Riesling balances out the salty and strong flavors of the cheese perfectly.
Can I eat the mold on regular cheddar or bread?
No, stay safe! The mold on "moldy cheese" is intentional and controlled, while fuzzy mold on regular bread or hard cheese can be harmful.
Why is mold added to cheese in the first place?
Mold changes the texture and flavor of the cheese as it ages, breaking down fats and proteins to create that signature creamy and sharp profile.
Is Gorgonzola the same as Blue cheese?
Gorgonzola is actually a specific type of blue cheese from Italy. Think of it this way: all Gorgonzola is blue cheese, but not all blue cheese is Gorgonzola!
How should I store my moldy cheese at home?
Keep it wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper rather than plastic wrap. This let’s the cheese "breathe" without drying out in the fridge.
What are some good food pairings for blue cheese?
Try pairing it with sliced pears, walnuts, honey, or even on top of a juicy steak for a real gourmet experience.
Is moldy cheese high in protein?
Yes, like most cheeses, these varieties are a great source of protein and calcium, making them a nutritious (and tasty) treat.
Where did National Moldy Cheese Day originate?
While the exact founder is a bit of a mystery, it likely started among cheese enthusiasts who wanted to celebrate the more adventurous side of the dairy world.
Top Emojis for National Moldy Cheese Day
🧀
Classic Cheese Glow
The ultimate symbol for any cheese celebration, perfect for showing off your favorite wedge of the day.
💙
The Blue Heart
Since we are celebrating "blue" cheeses, this heart represents the deep love fans have for that signature sharp flavor.
🤤
Gourmet Cravings
Use this one to show just how mouth-watering a perfectly aged piece of Stilton or Gorgonzola can be.
🍷
The Perfect Pairing
Nothing goes better with a pungent moldy cheese than a glass of fine wine to balance those intense salty notes.
🥖
Bread and Cheese Vibes
The go-to companion for any moldy cheese platter, because you need a crunchy vessel for all that creamy goodness.
🥗
Salad Topper Magic
A nod to the most popular way people enjoy blue cheese—crumbled over a fresh, crisp salad with some walnuts.