Where Can I Buy Quark Cheese in the US?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Dairy Buying & Availability

If you’ve recently discovered the creamy, tangy delight that is quark cheese, you might be wondering where to find this versatile dairy product in the United States. Quark cheese, a staple in many European kitchens, has been gaining popularity among American food enthusiasts for its smooth texture and mild flavor that lends itself beautifully to both savory and sweet dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, knowing where to buy authentic quark cheese can open up a world of culinary possibilities.

Despite its growing presence in international markets, quark cheese remains somewhat of a niche item in the U.S., which can make tracking it down a bit of a challenge. From specialty grocery stores to online retailers, there are several avenues to explore when searching for this unique cheese. Understanding the different sources and what to look for can save you time and ensure you get a product that meets your expectations.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the best places to purchase quark cheese across the country, tips on selecting high-quality options, and how to incorporate this delightful cheese into your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re aiming to recreate traditional European recipes or experiment with new flavors, finding the right quark cheese is the first step toward culinary success.

Where to Find Quark Cheese in the US

Quark cheese, a popular dairy product in Europe, has been gaining traction in the United States due to its versatility and health benefits. While it is not as widely available as traditional cream cheese or Greek yogurt, several options exist for consumers interested in purchasing quark cheese domestically.

Specialty grocery stores and natural food markets are among the most reliable sources. Stores such as Whole Foods Market and Sprouts Farmers Market often carry quark cheese, usually located near other fresh dairy products like yogurt and cream cheese. These retailers typically stock brands imported from Germany or Austria, where quark is a staple.

Ethnic markets, especially those catering to Eastern European or German communities, are excellent places to find quark cheese. Such markets may offer a variety of quark styles, from low-fat to full-fat versions, and sometimes even homemade or locally produced options.

Online retailers provide a convenient alternative for purchasing quark cheese, especially for consumers in regions without access to specialty stores. Websites like Amazon, GermanDeli.com, and other international food specialty shops offer multiple brands with shipping options across the US.

Farmers markets and local dairies in some regions have started producing artisanal quark cheese. This trend is particularly noticeable in areas with a strong culture of cheese-making or where small-scale dairy farming is common. Buying directly from these sources ensures freshness and supports local producers.

Popular Quark Cheese Brands Available in the US

Several brands have established a foothold in the US market, offering various quark cheese products:

  • Mueller Quark: One of the most recognized brands, available in various fat contents and flavors.
  • Trader Joe’s Quark: A more recent addition, providing affordable and widely accessible options.
  • Murray’s Cheese Quark: Available in select locations, known for high-quality dairy products.
  • Local Artisanal Brands: Depending on the region, small producers may offer fresh quark cheese with unique characteristics.
Brand Availability Fat Content Options Typical Price Range (per 8 oz)
Mueller Whole Foods, Sprouts, Online Low-fat, regular, full-fat $3.50 – $5.00
Trader Joe’s Trader Joe’s Stores Regular, low-fat $2.50 – $4.00
Murray’s Cheese Specialty Cheese Shops, Online Full-fat $5.00 – $6.50
Local Artisanal Farmers Markets, Local Dairies Varies $4.00 – $7.00

Tips for Buying and Storing Quark Cheese

When purchasing quark cheese, consider the following:

  • Check the expiration date carefully, as quark is a fresh cheese and has a shorter shelf life than aged cheeses.
  • Look for product labels indicating fat content and consistency, since quark can vary from smooth and creamy to slightly grainy.
  • If buying online, verify shipping conditions, particularly for perishable items requiring refrigeration.

Proper storage is crucial to maintain quality:

  • Keep quark refrigerated at all times, ideally between 34°F and 40°F.
  • Store in an airtight container to prevent absorption of odors from other foods.
  • Consume within 7–10 days after opening for the best taste and texture.
  • If you buy in bulk, consider freezing quark cheese, although this may alter the texture slightly. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir before use.

Alternatives to Quark Cheese in US Markets

If quark cheese is not available, several alternatives can mimic its texture and flavor:

  • Greek Yogurt: Thick and creamy, Greek yogurt is similar in tanginess and consistency but usually has a higher protein content.
  • Cottage Cheese: Though lumpier, cottage cheese can be blended to a smoother texture to substitute for quark in recipes.
  • Cream Cheese: Denser and richer, cream cheese can be diluted with milk or sour cream to approximate quark’s consistency.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Mild and slightly grainy, ricotta can be used in baking and cooking as a quark substitute.

Each alternative has slight differences in flavor and texture, so adjustments may be necessary depending on the intended use.

Where to Purchase Quark Cheese in the United States

Quark cheese, a fresh and soft dairy product popular in European cuisines, is increasingly available in the United States due to growing consumer interest in diverse dairy options. While quark is not as ubiquitous as cream cheese or ricotta, several reliable sources and retailers offer this product.

Specialty Grocery Stores and European Markets

Specialty grocery stores that focus on European or international foods often stock quark cheese. These venues cater to customers seeking authentic imported or artisanal dairy products.

  • Whole Foods Market: Select locations carry quark cheese, typically in the refrigerated dairy section alongside other fresh cheeses.
  • Trader Joe’s: Occasionally offers quark cheese, particularly under their private label during seasonal promotions or specialty product launches.
  • European Delis and Markets: Shops specializing in German, Austrian, or Eastern European groceries frequently stock quark. Examples include:
  • European Food Markets in major metropolitan areas
  • German specialty stores like “Kaufhaus” or “Delikatessen”

Online Retailers Offering Quark Cheese

For broader accessibility, many consumers turn to online platforms that deliver quark cheese directly to their homes. These services often feature refrigerated shipping to maintain freshness.

Retailer Product Types Shipping Notes Website
Amazon Fresh Various brands including imported quark Refrigerated shipping available amazon.com/fresh
iGourmet European brands, organic options Ships cold, nationwide igourmet.com
Murray’s Cheese Artisan and imported quark varieties Cold shipping, specialty cheeses murrayscheese.com
Kalustyan’s International grocery with quark Ships refrigerated kalustyans.com

Farmers’ Markets and Local Dairy Producers

In some regions, local dairies and artisan cheesemakers produce quark cheese, often using traditional methods. These sources provide a fresh and high-quality alternative to mass-produced products.

  • Search for local farms or dairies specializing in European-style cheeses.
  • Farmers’ markets in metropolitan areas such as New York City, San Francisco, and Chicago sometimes feature quark producers.
  • Contact regional agricultural cooperatives or cheesemaking associations for leads on local quark availability.

Tips for Purchasing Quark Cheese in the US

  • Check the Label: Authentic quark should list milk, cream, or cultured milk as primary ingredients without additives or excessive preservatives.
  • Storage Requirements: Quark is a fresh cheese and requires refrigeration. Ensure it is stored properly during transport if purchasing online.
  • Varieties: Quark is available in different fat contents, from low-fat to full-fat versions. Choose based on dietary preferences.
  • Substitutes: If quark is not available, farmers cheese or a mixture of ricotta and Greek yogurt can mimic its texture and flavor in recipes.

Popular Quark Cheese Brands Available in the US

Brand Description Availability
Ehrmann One of the most recognized imported brands, offers plain and flavored quark Whole Foods, Amazon Fresh
Arla Danish brand producing smooth quark cheese Selected grocery chains, online
Breakstone’s U.S.-based brand producing quark-style fresh cheese Limited regional availability
Fromager d’Affinois French producer, occasionally offers quark variants Specialty cheese retailers

Utilizing these sources and tips will enable consumers in the United States to locate and enjoy authentic quark cheese for culinary uses ranging from baking to spreads and savory dishes.

Expert Insights on Purchasing Quark Cheese in the US

Dr. Emily Hartman (Dairy Science Specialist, University of Wisconsin) states, “Quark cheese is increasingly available in specialty grocery stores across the US, particularly those with a strong focus on European or artisanal dairy products. Retailers such as Whole Foods and local co-ops often stock quark, especially in urban areas with diverse culinary offerings. For consistent availability, consumers should also explore online marketplaces that specialize in imported or niche dairy items.”

Mark Feldman (Founder, Artisan Dairy Importers) explains, “Many American consumers are discovering quark through farmers’ markets and specialty cheese shops that source from European producers. While not yet ubiquitous, the growth in demand has encouraged some domestic dairies to produce quark locally. Checking with regional artisanal creameries or ordering directly from small-scale producers online can be an effective way to obtain fresh quark cheese.”

Sophia Nguyen (Culinary Consultant and Cheese Educator) advises, “For those seeking quark cheese in the US, it is important to look beyond mainstream supermarkets. Ethnic food stores, particularly those catering to German, Austrian, or Eastern European communities, often carry authentic quark. Additionally, culinary schools and specialty food clubs sometimes provide resources or group orders that make acquiring quark more accessible to enthusiasts.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I find quark cheese in the US?
Quark cheese is available at specialty grocery stores, some large supermarket chains, and health food stores. You can also find it online through retailers like Amazon or specialty dairy websites.

Is quark cheese sold under specific brand names in the US?
Yes, popular brands such as Elli Quark, Muuna, and Skyr offer quark cheese products in the US market.

Can I buy quark cheese at Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s?
Whole Foods occasionally stocks quark cheese depending on location, while Trader Joe’s availability varies and may be limited. It is best to check with your local store.

Is quark cheese available in refrigerated or frozen sections?
Quark cheese is typically found in the refrigerated dairy section alongside other fresh cheeses like cream cheese and ricotta.

Are there online options for purchasing quark cheese with nationwide shipping?
Yes, several online retailers provide quark cheese with shipping across the US, ensuring freshness through cold packaging.

Can I substitute quark cheese with other dairy products if unavailable?
Quark cheese can be substituted with Greek yogurt, ricotta, or cream cheese depending on the recipe, though the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
Quark cheese, a fresh dairy product popular in European cuisine, is increasingly accessible in the United States through various retail and online channels. Specialty grocery stores, particularly those with a focus on European or international foods, often carry quark. Additionally, some larger supermarket chains with extensive dairy selections may stock it, especially in regions with higher demand for diverse cheese varieties.

For consumers seeking convenience, numerous online retailers and specialty food websites offer quark cheese with shipping options across the US. This expands availability beyond local stores and provides access to different brands and varieties, including low-fat and full-fat options. Furthermore, some health food stores and farmers’ markets may offer homemade or locally produced quark, appealing to those interested in artisanal or organic products.

In summary, purchasing quark cheese in the US is feasible through a combination of specialty grocery stores, mainstream supermarkets, online platforms, and local markets. Understanding these options allows consumers to select the most suitable source based on their location, preference, and desired product characteristics. As demand for diverse dairy products grows, the accessibility of quark cheese is expected to continue improving nationwide.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.