Short answer: the best substitute for quark is strained plain Greek yogurt. Skyr, fromage frais and blended cottage cheese also work well. Which one to use depends on what you are making.
Best quark substitutes
1. Greek yogurt (best all-round)
Thick and creamy, and easy to find. It is more sour than quark, so add a little sweetness in desserts. If it looks runny, strain it (see tip below).
2. Skyr
Thick, mild and high in protein. A very close match in texture for dips, bowls and pancakes.
3. Fromage frais
Soft, smooth and mild. Good for desserts and spreads. It is often a little softer than quark.
4. Cottage cheese, blended
Blend it until smooth and it becomes a good swap in baking and dips. Unblended, it stays lumpy.
5. Ricotta
Mild and soft with a grainier feel. Works in baking and sweet dishes, but it is less tangy.
6. Cream cheese
Richer, thicker and fattier. You can use it in cheesecakes, but expect a heavier result. Mixing it half and half with yogurt makes it lighter.
Which substitute for which recipe?
- Cheesecake: strained Greek yogurt, or blended cottage cheese, or a mix of cream cheese and yogurt.
- Pancakes: skyr or thick Greek yogurt.
- Dips and spreads: Greek yogurt, skyr or fromage frais.
- Fruit bowls: any of the thick yogurt types.
Tip: make yogurt thicker
Place plain yogurt in a sieve lined with a clean cloth or coffee filter, set it over a bowl, and leave it in the fridge for a few hours. The watery liquid drains away and the yogurt becomes thicker, closer to quark.
Things to remember
- Start with a 1 to 1 swap by weight, then adjust.
- Choose plain, unsweetened versions.
- Match the fat level to your recipe. Low-fat versions can be a little watery in baking.
Quick FAQ
Can I use sour cream instead of quark?
It is much richer and sourer, so it changes the taste. It works in some savoury dips, but it is not a close match.
Can I make quark at home?
Yes. See our guide on how to make quark at home.
More: what quark cheese is and quark vs Greek yogurt. Also see skyr vs quark. Back to the food section