The Cream of Bucks County Dairies Rises to the Top in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has the second largest number of dairy farms in the country. One of the best small-scale dairies and creameries is right here in Bucks County, writes Alexandra Jones for The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

Ely Farm Products in Newtown is a seventh-generation farm best known for its meats; however, the Ely family also produces outstanding cheeses. 

Varieties include a signature “Ely Farm Cheese,” a delicious, mellow, snackable Colby style also available smoked. 

Its “Washington Crossing” is a past winner of an American Cheese Society award, rated the second best nationwide. It is a full-flavored American original that boasts the smooth texture of Fontina but packs a Parmigiano-like punch. 

The Ely family farm dates to the 1700s. Dwight Ely, current owner-operator, took over the business after a pair of knee injuries grounded his rocketing NCAA competitive wrestling career. An agronomy degree from Texas A&M University (where he wrestled) became his professional Plan B.  

The interest in dairy stemmed from a month-long skiing trip in the Alps, where he and his wife savored artisan cheeses. He learned the craft from a New Zealand expert, who traveled to Newtown for a week of training. 

Read more about the best small-scale dairies and creameries in The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

Although Ely Farm Products uses its dairy to make cheese and not ice cream, you’re not far from plenty of choices near Newtown. Get our free guide and fill those cups and cones to the brim!

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