Homemade Quark Cheese

Name: Homemade Quark Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 435 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 2 litres whole milk (fresh); 1/4 cup buttermilk (room temperature)

435 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Delight in the creamy, tangy taste of homemade quark cheese with this easy recipe, perfect for spreading or baking.

Prep

15 min

Cook

60 min

Total

435 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Quark is a creamy, fresh cheese that is a staple in many European diets, known for its mild tangy flavour and versatility. Making quark at home is both cost-effective and rewarding, providing a fresher taste than store-bought options. This homemade version is perfect for those who enjoy cooking from scratch and want to explore the world of cheese-making. Whether you're using it in baking, as a spread, or simply enjoying it with fresh fruit, quark cheese is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Instructions

Prepare the milk

Pour the whole milk into a large saucepan and warm it over low heat until it reaches 32°C (90°F).

Pro tip: Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Add buttermilk

Remove from heat and gently stir in the buttermilk. Cover the saucepan with a lid.

Pro tip: Make sure buttermilk is at room temperature for best results.

Allow curds to form

Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 12 hours, or overnight, until curds form.

Pro tip: The mixture should look set and slightly pull away from the sides.

Check the curds

After 12 hours, check if the curds have formed a solid mass. If so, proceed to the next step.

Drain the whey

Line a colander with a clean cheesecloth and pour the curds into it, allowing the whey to drain for 4-6 hours.

Pro tip: Gather the ends of the cheesecloth and tie them to create a pouch for better drainage.

Finish and store

Transfer the quark cheese to a bowl and refrigerate. Use within one week.

Pro tip: Stir the quark before serving for a smoother texture.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure milk is fresh for best results.
Use a thermometer to maintain precise temperatures.
Patience is key; allow proper time for curd formation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does homemade quark cheese last?

Homemade quark cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.

What is quark cheese used for?

Quark cheese is versatile; use it in baking, as a spread, or pair with fruits and breads.

Is quark cheese healthy?

Yes, quark cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, with lower fat content compared to many cheeses.

Can I use store-bought milk for quark?

Yes, store-bought whole milk works well, as long as it's fresh and not ultra-pasteurized.

What does quark cheese taste like?

Quark cheese has a mild, tangy flavour similar to sour cream or yogurt but less tart.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade quark cheese is best served fresh, spread on rye bread, or stirred into soups for added creaminess. Pair it with fruits like berries or apples for a delightful breakfast option. You can make quark ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep and quick, healthy snacks.

Nutrition per serving

160

Calories

Protein

Fat

See the whole store

BBQ & Outdoor Cooking · Grill Brushes

BBQ Grill Brush, 360°Clean 17 Inch Bristle Free Barbecue Brush, Stainless Steel Scraper BBQ Cleaning Brush, BBQ Accessories for Most Stainless Steel, Gas, Infrared, Iron & Porcelain Barbecue Grates

$17.99

Coffee & Drinks · Espresso Machines

De'Longhi 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine with Milk Frother & Temperature Control - Compact Home Barista Coffee Maker for Espresso, Latte, Cappuccino & Iced Coffee, Easy to Clean Design

$129.99

Pit Boss Grills

700FB Wood Pellet Grill

$799.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.