Milk & Cream

Jersey Milk

Milk from Jersey cows, a Channel Islands breed, known for high butterfat and protein. It is sold as premium drinking milk and for butter and ice cream making.

CategoryMilk & Cream
Maker / OriginJersey, Channel Islands
StorageRefrigerate in its bottle, sealed. Cream-top bottles should be shaken or the cream folded back in before pouring.
Shelf lifeAbout 5 to 7 days after opening, and by the date on the bottle.
Best usesDrinking, coffee, custards, ice cream, and butter making.
SubstitutesWhole milk, or whole milk with a splash of cream for cooking.
PairingsCoffee, cereal, porridge, and tea.
Last checkedOctober 18, 2026

About it

Jersey cows produce the richest milk of the common dairy breeds, with butterfat often above 5 percent and a natural golden tint from beta-carotene. Cream-top Jersey milk, unhomogenized, is sold as a specialty pour in glass bottles.

Storing it

Jersey milk freezes like other milks, up to 3 months; its cream may separate on thawing, so shake well. Keep it away from odors.

Using it

Use Jersey milk where richness matters: custards, rice pudding, and ice cream bases. Shake cream-top bottles before pouring for an even glass.

Swaps & pairings

Standard whole milk covers drinking and baking. For custards and ice cream, whole milk plus cream approaches Jersey richness.

More from this maker: Jersey, Channel Islands

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