For us, 2025 was all about curiosity in the kitchen—testing new ideas, revisiting old favorites, and saying yes to a few “why not?” moments along the way. We branched out, got our hands a little messier (hello, sourdough), and played with flavors and techniques that pushed us just outside our comfort zone. As we dream up what’s next and decide what we’re cooking up for you in the year ahead, here’s a roundup of the recipes you loved most from last year.

1.

Cheddar Sourdough Discard Crackers featuring The Fawn

Looking for something to do with your sourdough discard? Try making crackers! Topped with The Fawn and a touch of rosemary, black pepper, and salt, they bake up into a savory, crunchy snack ready to enjoy alongside your favorite cheeses, with your favorite dips, or just on their own.

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2.

Cacio e Pepe Mac featuring The Swan

We’ve always felt like Cacio e Pepe is a little mac-and-cheese-adjacent, so we used The Swan—our sheep’s milk and peppercorn cow’s milk cheddar—to create a mac inspired by the dish. Lusciously creamy with a peppery warmth, this recipe is what cozy dinner dreams are made of!

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3.

Warm Blue Jay with Figs, Apricots, & Walnuts

Everything about this appetizer makes for easy and elegant entertaining. Melty blue jay, sweet figs and apricots, and toasty walnuts come together to create a sharable dish fit for any holiday table (or any time at all)!

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4.

Homemade Hot Chocolate for Two Paired with The Rattlesnake

Hot chocolate will forever be an all-ages favorite. Our simple homemade version is rich and comforting. Coupled with the savory heat of The Rattlesnake, it makes for a sweet and spicy afternoon treat best shared with someone you love.

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5.

Kale, Leek, & Artichoke Dip featuring The Fawn

This dreamy, creamy dip is easy to make, perfect served warm or chilled, and keeps well in the fridge for up to a week—if it lasts that long. Earthy kale, delicate leeks, and briny artichoke hearts come together with The Fawn’s sweet, nutty notes to create a rich, flavorful appetizer meant to be shared and savored.

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6.

Fresh Radishes with Blue Jay Butter

If you like radishes and butter, you will love radishes and Blue Jay butter! Here’s how to make this earthy, creamy, botanical treat.

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7.

Spicy Sourdough Bagels featuring The Rattlesnake

The only thing better than homemade sourdough bagels? Homemade sourdough bagels stuffed with cheese. We used The Rattlesnake to give these perfectly chewy bagels a spicy, cheesy center to pair with their warm, golden crust. If you’re a sourdough baker, this simple and satisfying recipe deserves the next spot on your must-bake list.

Deer Creek #ProTip: Swap The Rattlesnake for any of our cheeses to create your own delicious flavor combinations!

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8.

Esquite Pasta Salad featuring The Rattlesnake

Street corn lovers, this one’s for you! Try making this fresh and simple Esquite Pasta Salad tonight. Fire-roasted corn, fresh cilantro, and a touch of jalapeño bring bright, bold flavor, while a creamy lime dressing ties everything together. The Rattlesnake adds the perfect kick of habanero and tequila, making this dish a standout for end-of-summer gatherings or an easy weeknight side.

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9.

Roasted Grapes

This cozy board features The Swan and The Doe paired with cured salami, marinated mixed olives, slices of raisin walnut bread, pepitas, roasted delicata squash rings, and a bunch of roasted grapes. Yes, roasted grapes! Here’s how to make them.

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