Babybelletje is a small, round Dutch cheese with a mild, creamy flavor and smooth texture. Covered in red wax, this miniature Edam-style cheese weighs about 200 grams and is perfect for snacking, lunch boxes, and cheese platters. It’s been a Dutch household staple since the 1950s.
Have you ever spotted those tiny, wax-covered cheese wheels in the supermarket and wondered what they’re all about? You’re looking at babybelletje, one of the Netherlands’ most beloved mini cheeses. This compact dairy treat has been feeding Dutch families for decades, and it’s time you learned why it deserves a spot in your fridge.
This guide covers everything about babybelletje: its history, nutritional profile, how to serve it, and where to buy it. You’ll also learn storage tips and discover recipe ideas that go beyond simple snacking.
Table of Contents
What Makes Babybelletje Different
Babybelletje translates to “baby bell” in Dutch. The name refers to its small, round shape and the traditional bell-shaped Edam cheese it resembles. Most babybelletje weighs between 180 and 220 grams, making it a single-serving cheese or perfect for small households.
The cheese features a distinctive red wax coating that seals in moisture and protects the cheese. This wax keeps the cheese fresh for weeks, even without refrigeration in cool conditions. Inside, you’ll find a pale yellow, semi-hard cheese with a mild, slightly nutty flavor.
The texture is smooth and sliceable. It’s softer than aged Gouda but firmer than fresh mozzarella. This makes it easy to cut into cubes, slice for sandwiches, or grate over hot dishes.
Key Characteristics
- Weight: 180–220 grams per wheel
- Shape: Round, slightly flattened sphere
- Coating: Red paraffin wax
- Flavor: Mild, creamy, slightly sweet
- Texture: Semi-hard, smooth, sliceable
- Fat content: Typically 20–25% milk fat
- Aging: 4–8 weeks
The Dutch History Behind the Cheese
The Netherlands has produced cheese for over 800 years, with Edam and Gouda being the most famous varieties. Babybelletje emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to changing consumer needs.
After World War II, Dutch households got smaller, and families wanted portion-controlled foods. Cheese producers created miniature versions of traditional wheels to meet this demand. The red wax coating was added for preservation and brand recognition.
According to the Dutch Dairy Association, small-format cheeses like babybelletje represented nearly 15% of domestic cheese sales by the 1970s. Today, they remain popular in the Netherlands and have gained fans across Europe.
The cheese shares production methods with traditional Edam. Producers use pasteurized cow’s milk, add bacterial cultures and rennet, then press the curds into small molds. After a brief aging period, workers coat each wheel in food-grade paraffin wax.
Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits
Babybelletje provides quality protein, calcium, and essential vitamins. A typical 30-gram serving (about one thick slice) contains:
- Calories: 90–100
- Protein: 6–7 grams
- Fat: 7–8 grams
- Saturated fat: 4–5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0–1 gram
- Calcium: 150–180 mg (15–18% daily value)
- Sodium: 180–220 mg
The cheese is naturally lactose-free or very low in lactose. During the aging process, bacteria break down most of the milk sugar, making it easier to digest for people with mild lactose sensitivity.
Research from Wageningen University in 2023 showed that moderate cheese consumption (30–40 grams daily) can support bone health in adults over 50. The calcium and vitamin K2 in aged cheeses help maintain bone density.
Babybelletje also contains vitamin A, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and zinc. These nutrients support immune function, energy production, and cell repair.
Keep in mind that this cheese is relatively high in saturated fat and sodium. If you’re watching your salt intake, limit portions to 30–40 grams per serving.
How to Serve Babybelletje
This versatile cheese works in dozens of dishes and snacking situations. The mild flavor pairs well with both sweet and savory foods.
Simple Serving Ideas
Slice it thin for sandwiches with whole-grain bread, lettuce, and tomato. The cheese won’t overpower other ingredients, making it perfect for balanced lunch combinations.
Cut it into cubes for cheese platters. Pair it with grapes, apple slices, whole grain crackers, and a handful of nuts. Add a small bowl of honey or fig jam for contrast.
Grate it over hot pasta, baked potatoes, or vegetable casseroles. The cheese melts smoothly and adds a creamy texture without overwhelming the dish.
Pack it whole in lunch boxes. The wax coating protects it during transport, and kids can peel it off like an egg before eating.
Pairing Recommendations
Fruits: Green apples, red grapes, pears, figs
Breads: Whole wheat, sourdough, rye, multigrain crackers
Meats: Smoked turkey, prosciutto, salami
Condiments: Whole grain mustard, honey, fig jam, apple chutney
Drinks: Light red wines (Pinot Noir), white wines (Sauvignon Blanc), wheat beer, apple cider
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage extends the life of your babybelletje and maintains its flavor.
Keep unopened wheels in the refrigerator at 35–40°F (2–4°C). The wax coating allows it to stay fresh for 3–4 months from the production date. Check the label for specific dates.
Once you remove the wax, wrap the cheese in parchment paper or wax paper, then place it in an airtight container. This prevents it from drying out while allowing it to breathe slightly. Rewrap it after each use.
Properly wrapped opened cheese lasts 2–3 weeks in the refrigerator. If you see mold, cut away at least one inch around the affected area. Hard cheeses like babybelletje are safe to eat after removing moldy sections.
You can freeze babybelletje, but it will change the texture. Frozen cheese becomes more crumbly and works better for cooking than for fresh eating. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Use within 2–3 months.
Bring cheese to room temperature 30–45 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavor and makes the texture more enjoyable.
Where to Buy and What to Look For
In the Netherlands, you’ll find babybelletje in every supermarket chain, including Albert Heijn, Jumbo, and. It’s typically located in the refrigerated cheese section near other Dutch varieties.
Outside the Netherlands, look for it in specialty European food stores, international supermarkets, or online cheese retailers. Some brands ship internationally through websites that specialize in European imports.
Quality Indicators
Choose wheels with intact wax coating. Cracks or breaks in the wax can let air in and affect freshness.
The wax should be bright red, not faded or discolored. Fading suggests the cheese sat on the shelves too long.
Pick up the cheese. It should feel firm and slightly heavy for its size. A light, hollow feeling indicates drying.
Check the production or best-by date. Fresher is better, though this cheese has a good shelf life.
Price Range
Expect to pay €2.50–€4.50 per wheel in the Netherlands. International prices vary but typically range from $5–$8 USD per wheel, depending on import costs and retailer markup.
Recipe Ideas Beyond Snacking
Babybelletje’s mild flavor makes it a flexible cooking ingredient.
Baked Babybelletje with Herbs
Remove the wax from one wheel. Score the top in a crosshatch pattern. Press minced garlic and fresh thyme into the cuts. Wrap in parchment paper, then aluminum foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until soft. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Cheese and Vegetable Skewers
Cut babybelletje into 1-inch cubes. Thread onto skewers with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and bell pepper chunks. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with black pepper and oregano.
Dutch Cheese Soup
Dice one wheel of babybelletje. Sauté onions and celery in butter. Add vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the diced cheese until melted. Add cooked potato cubes and season with nutmeg. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Grilled Cheese Upgrade
Slice babybelletje thin. Layer on sourdough bread with sliced tomato and fresh basil. Butter the outside of the bread and grill until golden and the cheese melts. The mild cheese lets the tomato and basil shine.
Final Thoughts
Babybelletje offers a taste of Dutch tradition in a convenient, single-serving format. Its mild flavor works in dozens of dishes, from simple sandwiches to warm appetizers. The wax coating provides natural protection, making it travel-friendly and long-lasting.
Whether you’re building a cheese board, packing school lunches, or looking for cooking ingredients, this little cheese delivers quality and versatility. Next time you see those red wax wheels, grab one and discover why Dutch families have relied on babybelletje for generations.
FAQs
Is babybelletje the same as Babybel?
No. Babybel is a French brand of processed cheese snacks wrapped in wax. Babybelletje is a traditional Dutch cheese made from cow’s milk using methods similar to Edam. The names sound alike, but they’re different products with different origins and production methods.
Can lactose-intolerant people eat babybelletje?
Most aged cheeses, including babybelletje, contain very little lactose. The aging process breaks down milk sugars. People with mild lactose sensitivity often tolerate it well. Those with severe intolerance should test small amounts first or consult a doctor.
Why is the wax red?
Red wax has been used on Dutch Edam cheese for centuries. It started as a way to identify Dutch cheese in international trade. The color became associated with quality and tradition. Today, it’s mainly for brand recognition and protection.
How long has babybelletje been around?
Small-format Dutch cheeses appeared in the 1950s and gained popularity through the 1960s and 1970s. The exact origin date varies by producer, but the concept emerged after World War II to serve changing household needs.
Can you eat the wax coating?
No. The red wax is food-grade paraffin and won’t harm you if you accidentally swallow a small piece, but it’s not meant to be eaten. Always remove it before consuming the cheese.
