National Dairy Month is a fun, meaningful way to honor the role of dairy in our lives. It is rooted in celebrating the hard work of America’s dairy farmers. Sharing and cooking with dairy-based recipes highlights the products they produce and reminds us where our food comes from.
Dairy is an excellent source of calcium, protein, and essential vitamins, helping families add more wholesome, nutrient-dense meals to their routine. Our list of dairy recipes showcases the versatility of this key agricultural product and is meant to inspire you to think beyond the basic milk, butter, and cheese.
HOW MUCH DAIRY DO AMERICAN FARMHERS + RANCHHERS PRODUCE ANNUALLY?
The United States is one of the world’s leading dairy producers. Milk is the cornerstone of a diverse range of dairy products, including cheese, butter, yogurt, and ice cream. The dairy industry contributes significantly to the nation’s agricultural output and plays a vital role in the economy, supporting thousands of jobs across farming, processing, and distribution sectors.
In 2025, American dairy farmers are projected to produce approximately 227.3 billion pounds of milk, reflecting a slight increase from the previous year. A combination of factors has driven dairy production upward, and it’s expected to keep climbing in 2026 due to beef-on-dairy breeding advancements, which have led to a larger dairy herd and modest improvements in milk yield per cow.
For more detailed and up-to-date information on U.S. dairy production, the USDA Economic Research Service provides comprehensive data. You can also find expert industry analysis from our partners, RFD-TV News.
GOT MILK?
Milk is categorized into grades and classes based on its intended use and quality standards. But what’s the difference, and why do they matter?
What is a Milk Grade?
Milk grades denote the quality of the milk product and its suitability for either consumption or use in manufactured products like butter and cheese. There are two primary grades of milk: A, B, and AA.
- Grade A: The highest grade, suitable for direct consumption as fluid milk. It meets stringent health and sanitation standards. Grade A milk is the only type sold as fluid milk for direct consumption.
- Grade B: Used for manufacturing products like cheese, butter, and dry milk powder. It does not meet the same quality standards as Grade A.
- Grade AA: This applies specifically to milk used for butter production. While Grade B milk can also be used for butter production, Grade AA is the highest grade for butter based on flavor, quality, and texture.
What is a Milk Class? What’s the difference between milk Classes I-IV?
The Federal Milk Order System uses four classes to categorize milk based on its end use rather than quality. These classes are often included in dairy market reports, but what is the difference between each of the four classes?
CoBank dairy economist Corey Geiger shares an easy way to remember the difference between different classes of milk products:
- Class I: “Class I is beverage milk, it’s what you drink,” Geiger says.
- Class II: “Class II is all the soft products.” He explains: “Think: ice cream, yogurt. Cottage cheese would also be in there because it’s a softer cheese, and the creamers that you see in coffee.”
- Class III: “Class III is the largest class of milk, including cheese and whey,” Geiger explains. “I always tell people we think of a nursery rhyme, ‘Miss Tuffett sat on her muffin, eating her curds and whey.’ Curds and whey are all of Class III.”
- Class IV: “Class IV is butter and dry milk powders. Dry milk powders and non-fat dry milk are a key export. We export the product throughout the countries around the world, so those are Class III and IV.”
Geiger says Class 4 saw a big jump in 2024, and butter production reached its highest level in 77 years.
MORE CHEESE, PLEASE!!!
Discover the ultimate guide to cheesy appetizers and dips perfect for building a farm-fresh charcuterie board. From creamy, savory spreads to hearty, crowd-pleasing bites made with real dairy, these recipes bring bold flavor and rustic charm to any gathering.
From creamy baked mac and cheese to homemade Greek yogurt and ultra-buttery baked goods, dairy is great in everything! Our list of dairy recipes shows off the versatility of this key agricultural product. We hope it inspires you to think beyond basic milk, butter, and cheese.
CHEESY APPETIZERS + DIPS
Explore even more farm-to-board inspiration, pairing ideas, and easy tips for entertaining with style with this list of cheesy appetizers and dips:
Lemon Herb Savory Cheesecake with Goat Cheese + Ricotta
Recipe by Craving Something Healthy
Next time you need a show-stopping party appetizer, make this Lemon Herb Savory Cheesecake. It’s an easy, delicious alternative to plain old cheese and crackers, perfect for a cocktail party or holiday gathering. This cheesy appetizer is made with goat cheese, ricotta, and cream cheese, and it sits on top of a savory walnut and whole-grain cracker crust.
Ghost Pepper Cheese Ball
Recipe by Flavorful Eats
This Ghost Pepper Cheese Ball is made for those who want a little extra spice in their life! Tangy cream cheese is combined with ghost pepper powder and a blend of savory spices, creating the perfect spicy addition to your charcuterie spread!
Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers
Recipe by The Feathered Nester
Cream Cheese-Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers are a simple yet flavorful appetizer perfect for parties, potlucks, or even a quick snack at home. These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of mini bell peppers with a creamy, savory filling that’s hard to resist. They’re quick to make, customizable, and a hit with kids and adults.
Baked Ricotta with Garlic + Herbs
Recipe by Craving Something Healthy
When the company comes, and you need something delicious to serve with drinks, make this easy appetizer: Baked Ricotta with Garlic and Herbs. It’s warm, creamy, and spreadable, and every bite has a burst of flavor from fresh garlic and herbs. Serve this easy appetizer with toasted bread and garlic-roasted grape tomatoes, and your guests will be in heaven!
Dill Pickle Dip
Recipe by Flavorful Eats
Cool and creamy and loaded with chopped pickles, herby dill, and spices, this Dill Pickle Dip recipe is a must-have for parties, BBQs, potlucks, and anytime you need a flavorful, easy dip for entertaining!
DRINKABLE DAIRY RECIPES
Sip the best of the barn with these creamy, crave-worthy drinkable dairy recipes! These dairy-rich beverages celebrate the versatility of dairy straight from America’s hardworking farms. Perfect for breakfast, post-workout fuel, or an indulgent treat.
Here are three drinkable dairy recipes you’ll love:
Mexican Horchata
Recipe by Wanderzest
Delicious, sweet, and creamy, Homemade Horchata is made with rice, cinnamon, and vanilla. It’s the perfect drink for cooling off on a hot summer day and a refreshing accompaniment to your favorite Mexican food.
Homemade Strawberry Milk
Recipe by In The Kitch
Feel like a kid again with a tall glass of Homemade Strawberry Milk. This recipe uses homemade simple syrup made from fresh strawberries and sugar. It combines it with cold milk to create a delicious dairy beverage, thinner than a strawberry smoothie but packed with strawberry flavor.
Iced Protein Vanilla Macchiato
Recipe by Beyer Beware
What if you could take your coffee game to the next level by adding a protein punch and a touch of vanilla sweetness? Enter the Iced Protein Vanilla Macchiato, a delightful beverage that is both a treat for your taste buds and an excellent way to fuel your body.
CREAMY + DELICIOUS BREAKFAST RECIPES
Start your morning right with creamy and delicious breakfast recipes made with real dairy. From Homemade Greek Yogurt and Brioche bread pudding to protein-packed egg bakes to muffins fortified with cottage cheese, these easy morning meals are perfect for busy weekdays or slow weekend brunches.
Check out these four farm-fresh, flavorful, and satisfying breakfast recipes:
Homemade Greek Yogurt
Recipe by Chef Maria Loi
Few things are as delicious as Homemade Greek Yogurt. It’s healthy and simply delicious. Chef Maria Loi shares the versatile Greek yogurt recipe she learned from her grandmother that can be enjoyed on its own or with fresh fruit, walnuts, and honey.
High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bites with Bacon + Cheese
Recipe by Beyer Beware
Looking for a quick, nutritious, and delicious breakfast option? Look no further! High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bites with Bacon and Cheese are the perfect solution for busy mornings. These savory egg muffins are packed with protein, easy to prepare, and can be made ahead and customized with your favorite ingredients.
Overnight Brioche French Toast Casserole
Recipe by Recipes from Lefovers
This Brioche French Toast Casserole is pretty, filling, and delicious. With its sweet flavor, golden brown top, and creamy custard base, it’s a mouthwatering breakfast or brunch option with leftover ingredients. It’s quick to prep on the weekend and bakes up beautifully the next morning, making it a great go-to recipe for busy mornings and holiday breakfasts.
Strawberry Crepes with Cheesecake Filling
Recipe by Wanderzest
These delicate Strawberry Crepes with Cheesecake Filling are rolled up and finished with a sweet strawberry topping and homemade whipped cream. This decadent entree is perfect to serve for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Cottage Cheese Blueberry Muffins
Recipe by Hanaa Box
These viral Cottage Cheese Blueberry Muffins are a great high-protein meal prep breakfast option. They are soft and fluffy and bursting with blueberry goodness. They are kid-friendly and an adult favorite.
DELIGHTFUL DAIRY RECIPES FOR LUNCH + DINNER
Indulge in rich, satisfying lunch and dinner recipes that place real American dairy at the front and center. These dairy-friendly meals bring comfort and flavor to your table with every bite.
The following four recipes are great for feeding a crowd or treating yourself to something truly delicious for lunch or dinner:
Pickled Veggie + Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Recipe by Little Nomad Recipes
These vibrant Pickled Veggie Pinwheels are little swirls of joy! Packed with crunchy goodness and decadent cream cheese, they’re the kind of snack that disappears fast, whether it’s a pool party, a potluck platter, or a sunny picnic. Easy to make, fun to eat, and customizable!
Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops with Ranch, Colby Jack Cheese + French Fried Onions
Recipe by Beyer Beware
Looking for a hassle-free yet flavorful dinner option? These Easy Oven-Baked Boneless Pork Chops, seasoned with ranch and topped with creamy Colby Jack cheese and crispy French-fried onions, are perfect for a quick and delicious meal. The best part? No pan searing is required—just assemble and bake!
Fried Chicken Tacos with Andouille Sausage Gravy
Recipe by Heavenly Spiced
Fried Chicken Tacos with Andouille Sausage Gravy are a delicious southern-style breakfast or brunch option. The recipe combines juicy, crispy chicken with a creamy, savory gravy—a natural match! Our favorite way to enjoy these tacos is topped with pickled peppers and fresh chives. They add heat, acidity, and freshness.
The Lady’s Southern Baked Mac-and-Cheese
Recipe by Paula Deen
A Southern mac-and-cheese recipe that cuts like a casserole? Yes, please! Cooked elbow pasta, cheddar, butter, and a few more ingredients are baked to a golden crisp in a casserole dish. Extra cheese is optional, but your family will thank you for it! You can’t do better than this recipe for Southern Baked Mac-and-Cheese.
DAIRY-FORWARD DESSERT RECIPES
Treat yourself to sweet, dairy-forward dessert recipes that celebrate the richness of real milk, cream, butter, and cheese. From velvety puddings and creamy cheesecakes to old-fashioned, homemade ice cream, these desserts are pure indulgence in every bite.
You’ll love these six summery dessert recipes that highlight dairy and its versatility with a wide range of summer fruits:
Easy Homemade Raspberry Ice Cream with Fresh Berries
Recipe by Sabrina Currie’s West Coast Kitchen Garden
The only thing better than homemade vanilla ice cream is this easy Homemade Raspberry Ice Cream with Fresh Berries. Raspberries blend quickly into a tart, sweet raspberry puree that you’ll stir into a one-pot ice cream recipe. This is simply the best ice cream on a hot summer day.
No-Bake Elderflower + Lime Cheesecake
Recipe by Oh My Veg!
This No-Bake Elderflower + Lime Cheesecake has all the hallmarks of dreamy bakery-standard cheesecake: a crumbly, buttery biscuit base with a thick, creamy, and tangy cream cheese mixture that’s somehow equal parts dense, light, and fluffy.
Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding
Recipe by Paula Deen
You have got to try Paula Deen’s famous Not Yo Mama’s Banana Pudding recipe! This irresistible, no-bake dessert is an easy twist on the classic Southern dessert that swaps traditional vanilla wafers with ultra-buttery Chessmen cookies and is topped with a dollop of homemade whipped cream.
Flan de Queso
Recipe by I Heart Eating
This Flan de Queso takes a sweet, simple, custard-style flan up a few notches. It tastes like a delicious cross between traditional flan and cheesecake that is rich and tangy from the cream cheese, but also creamy and topped with a sweet caramel sauce like a traditional flan. It’s also easy to make and keeps well in the fridge, making a great make-ahead dessert recipe.
Blackberry Almond Cake with Marscapone Frosting
Recipe by Oh My Veg!
This Blackberry Almond Cake with Marscapone Frosting is fruity, nutty, moist, and topped with the most luxuriously creamy icing. Three components come together for this blackberry almond cake: the cake itself, which is moist with a tight crumb flavoured with nutty almond powder, the creamy and thick mascarpone icing, and finally the blackberry jam, which is used in both the cake and the icing. The recipe has some quirks, secret ingredients you wouldn’t expect, and some essential baking notes … but all the effort is 100000% worth it.
Mini New York Cheesecakes
Recipe by Simple and Fraiche
Mini New York Cheesecakes are an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s both simple and impressive. They’re perfect for any occasion with a creamy filling, a buttery graham cracker crust, and endless topping options. You’ll whip up these bite-sized treats like a pro with simple ingredients and a foolproof method.
Have a special farm family recipe to share? Submit a Recipe to the FarmHER Kitchen for a chance to be featured by the FarmHER Kitchen!
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