Skip to main content

Quark (Sour Fresh Cheese)

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This homemade quark is a versatile, protein-rich staple that every vegetarian kitchen should master. While traditionally associated with German baking, this fresh curd cheese has become incredibly popular in the UK as a healthy, low-fat alternative to soft cheese or soured cream. It boasts a mild, tangy flavour and a smooth texture that works beautifully in both savoury dips and light, airy cheesecakes.

Requiring only one ingredient and a little patience, this simple oven method allows the buttermilk to transform into delicate curds overnight. Once the solids have separated from the liquid whey, you can strain the mixture to achieve your preferred consistency. Enjoy it as a nutritious breakfast topped with fresh seasonal berries, or stir it through a pasta sauce for a creamy, lighter finish.

In this article:

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Quark (Sour Fresh Cheese)

  • 2050ml /2L buttermilk

How to make Quark (Sour Fresh Cheese)

Back to contents

Preheat the oven to 66°C/65°C. Pour the buttermilk into a baking dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil or a lid.

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 8 to 12 hours. When the buttermilk is ready to drain, the solids will have separated from the whey, either in soft clumps or in one lightly set uniform mass.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.