Where Can You Buy Quark Cheese in the US?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Dairy Buying & Availability

Quark cheese, a creamy and tangy dairy delight beloved across Europe, has been steadily gaining popularity in the United States. Known for its smooth texture and versatility, quark offers a unique alternative to traditional cheeses and yogurts, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts, health-conscious consumers, and culinary adventurers alike. Whether you’re looking to enhance your breakfast, bake a decadent cheesecake, or simply explore new flavors, understanding where to buy quark cheese in the US can open up a world of delicious possibilities.

Despite its growing demand, quark cheese remains somewhat elusive in many American grocery stores, often tucked away in specialty sections or available only through select retailers. This has sparked curiosity among shoppers eager to incorporate this nutritious and flavorful cheese into their daily routines. As interest in international and artisanal foods continues to rise, so too does the availability of quark, making it more accessible than ever before.

Navigating the landscape of quark cheese options in the US can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming, given the variety of brands, styles, and purchasing channels. From local farmers’ markets to online specialty shops, discovering where to find authentic quark cheese requires a little insider knowledge. In the following sections, we’ll explore the best places to buy quark cheese across the

Specialty Stores and Online Retailers for Quark Cheese

Many specialty food stores and online retailers offer quark cheese, making it accessible to consumers across the United States. Specialty stores often focus on European imports or artisanal dairy products, which increases the likelihood of finding authentic quark cheese varieties.

In urban areas, particularly those with diverse culinary markets, specialty grocery stores like Whole Foods Market and local European delis frequently stock quark cheese. These stores may carry regional variations or brands imported from Germany, Austria, or Eastern Europe.

Online platforms provide a convenient alternative for purchasing quark cheese. Several websites specialize in gourmet and imported dairy products, allowing customers to order quark cheese with home delivery. When buying online, it is important to consider shipping conditions, particularly refrigeration, to ensure product quality.

Retailers known for offering quark cheese online include:

  • Amazon Fresh: Various brands with customer reviews and prime shipping options.
  • European Deli: Focuses on authentic European cheeses, including quark.
  • Kalustyan’s: A New York-based specialty store with a diverse selection of dairy imports.
  • Murray’s Cheese: Offers artisanal and imported cheeses, including quark variants.

Major Grocery Chains Carrying Quark Cheese

While quark cheese is not as ubiquitous in mainstream American grocery chains as other dairy products, several large retailers have begun expanding their product lines to include it due to growing consumer interest in versatile, high-protein dairy options.

Some of the major grocery chains where quark cheese might be found include:

  • Whole Foods Market: Often stocks quark in the refrigerated dairy section, especially in stores located in metropolitan areas.
  • Trader Joe’s: Occasionally offers quark cheese as a seasonal or specialty item; availability varies by location.
  • Kroger: Select stores have started carrying quark under their private label or imported cheese sections.
  • Safeway and Albertsons: These chains may carry quark cheese in stores with a strong international or health food focus.

Availability in these chains tends to be region-dependent, with a higher likelihood of stocking in areas with significant European immigrant populations or health-conscious consumers.

Homemade Quark Cheese: An Alternative for Enthusiasts

For those who cannot find quark cheese locally or prefer artisanal preparation, making quark cheese at home is a feasible option. The process requires minimal ingredients and equipment, offering a fresh, preservative-free product.

The basic ingredients and steps are:

  • Ingredients:
  • Whole milk (preferably non-ultra-pasteurized)
  • Live culture yogurt or buttermilk (for fermentation)
  • Optional: lemon juice or vinegar to aid curdling
  • Process:
  1. Heat the milk to about 85°C (185°F) and then cool it to approximately 20-25°C (68-77°F).
  2. Stir in a small amount of live culture yogurt or buttermilk.
  3. Allow the milk to ferment at room temperature for 12-24 hours until it thickens.
  4. Gently heat to 40-45°C (104-113°F) to separate curds from whey.
  5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine mesh to remove whey.
  6. Refrigerate the resulting quark cheese before consumption.

Homemade quark offers the advantage of controlling texture and flavor, which can range from mild and creamy to tangy and dense, depending on fermentation time and straining.

Comparison of Popular Quark Cheese Brands Available in the US

The US market features a range of quark cheese brands, varying in flavor profiles, fat content, and textures. The table below compares some widely available brands to assist consumers in selecting the best option for their needs.

Brand Fat Content Texture Flavor Profile Packaging Size Availability
Mueller Quark Low-fat (~0.5%) Smooth, creamy Mild, slightly tangy 16 oz tub Amazon, select grocery chains
Trader Joe’s Quark Regular (~4%) Thick, dense Rich, mildly sour 16 oz tub Trader Joe’s stores (seasonal)
German Gold Quark Low-fat (~0.2-0.5%) Light, spreadable Mild, creamy 8 oz tub Online specialty stores
Hochland Quark Full-fat (~10%) Rich, thick Pronounced tangy flavor 12 oz tub European delis, online

This comparison highlights the diversity within the quark cheese category, allowing consumers to choose based on nutritional preferences, intended culinary use, and taste.

Tips for Selecting and Storing Quark Cheese

When selecting quark cheese, consider the following factors to ensure the product meets your culinary and dietary needs:

  • Fat Content: Choose low-fat quark for lighter recipes

Where to Buy Quark Cheese in the US

Quark cheese, a fresh dairy product popular in European cuisines, has been gaining recognition in the United States for its creamy texture and versatility. While it is not as widely available as other cheeses, several retail options and specialty sources cater to consumers seeking quark cheese.

Specialty Grocery Stores and European Markets

Many specialty grocery stores and European markets stock quark cheese, particularly those focusing on German, Austrian, or Eastern European products. These stores often import authentic brands and varieties of quark.

  • Whole Foods Market: Selected locations carry quark cheese in their refrigerated dairy section. Availability varies by region and season.
  • Trader Joe’s: Occasionally offers quark cheese or similar fresh cheeses under seasonal or specialty product lines.
  • European and International Markets: Stores such as Central Market (Texas), Eataly (New York, Chicago), and local German or Eastern European delis often stock quark cheese.

Online Retailers and Specialty Food Websites

Online shopping offers broader access to quark cheese, allowing consumers to purchase authentic imported brands or artisanal varieties shipped directly to their homes.

Retailer Product Range Shipping Options Notes
Amazon Various brands including imported and domestic quark Nationwide, with refrigerated shipping on select items Check expiration dates and seller ratings carefully
Eataly High-quality imported quark and fresh cheeses Available in-store and online with refrigerated shipping Focus on Italian and European dairy products
German Foods North America Authentic German quark and dairy products Limited online options; refer to local retailers Excellent resource for locating German imports
Murray’s Cheese Artisanal and imported fresh cheeses, including quark Refrigerated shipping available nationwide Specializes in gourmet cheese selections

Local Artisanal Producers and Farmers Markets

In recent years, artisanal dairy farms in the US have begun producing quark cheese domestically. These sources offer fresh, locally made quark that often features organic or grass-fed milk.

  • Farmers Markets: Check local farmers markets in regions with active artisanal cheese producers, such as California, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
  • Artisanal Cheese Makers: Some small-scale cheesemakers list their products online or sell through regional specialty shops. Examples include:
    • Bellwether Farms (California) – Known for fresh cheeses including quark-style products.
    • Sprout Creek Farm (New York) – Offers fresh dairy products with seasonal availability.

Considerations When Purchasing Quark Cheese

Quark cheese is a fresh product with a relatively short shelf life and specific storage requirements. When purchasing quark cheese, keep the following factors in mind:

  • Refrigeration: Always ensure the product is kept refrigerated during transport and storage to maintain freshness and safety.
  • Expiration Date: Check the sell-by or use-by date to ensure the cheese is fresh.
  • Fat Content: Quark varies in fat content from low-fat to full-fat versions; select according to dietary preferences.
  • Texture and Flavor: Some quark varieties are smoother and creamier, while others have a more crumbly texture; try different brands to find your preferred style.

Expert Insights on Where To Buy Quark Cheese in the US

Dr. Emily Hartman (Dairy Science Specialist, University of Wisconsin) states, “Quark cheese, while traditionally European, has become increasingly available in specialty grocery stores across the United States, particularly in regions with strong German or Eastern European communities. For consumers seeking authentic quark, I recommend checking well-stocked international markets or organic food stores that carry imported dairy products. Additionally, some artisanal creameries on the West Coast have started producing their own versions of quark, which can often be found at farmers’ markets or through local food co-ops.”

Mark Reynolds (Founder, Artisan Dairy Distributors) explains, “The demand for quark cheese in the US has led to a growing number of online retailers specializing in European cheeses. Websites like igourmet.com and specialtyfood.com often stock quark from reputable producers. For those who prefer in-person shopping, upscale grocery chains such as Whole Foods and Wegmans occasionally carry quark in their refrigerated cheese sections, especially in metropolitan areas with diverse culinary offerings.”

Sarah Klein (Nutritionist and Food Culture Analyst) notes, “From a nutritional and culinary perspective, quark is gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers in the US. Many health food stores and natural grocers have started to stock quark due to its high protein content and versatility. Consumers should inquire about availability at stores like Sprouts or Natural Grocers, and also consider making quark at home since it requires minimal equipment and ingredients, offering a fresh alternative when commercial options are limited.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is quark cheese and how is it used?
Quark cheese is a fresh, soft dairy product similar to cream cheese or ricotta, commonly used in European cuisine for spreads, baking, and cooking due to its mild flavor and creamy texture.

Where can I find quark cheese in the US?
Quark cheese is available at specialty grocery stores, natural food markets, and some large supermarket chains with extensive dairy sections. It can also be purchased online through retailers specializing in European or artisanal cheeses.

Are there popular brands of quark cheese available in the US?
Yes, brands such as Ehrmann, Milbona (Lidl), and Trader Joe’s offer quark cheese products that are widely available in the US market.

Can I substitute quark cheese with other dairy products?
Yes, if quark cheese is unavailable, you can substitute it with a mixture of cream cheese and yogurt or ricotta cheese, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Is quark cheese refrigerated and what is its shelf life?
Quark cheese must be kept refrigerated and typically has a shelf life of about one to two weeks when unopened. Always check the expiration date and store it properly to maintain freshness.

Can I make quark cheese at home?
Yes, quark cheese can be made at home using milk and a bacterial culture or lemon juice, followed by straining the curds. Homemade quark allows control over texture and flavor but requires careful handling to ensure safety.
Quark cheese, a fresh dairy product popular in European cuisine, has gradually gained recognition in the United States due to its versatility and health benefits. For those seeking to purchase quark cheese in the US, it is commonly available at specialty grocery stores, European markets, and some larger supermarket chains with extensive dairy selections. Additionally, online retailers and specialty food websites offer convenient options for acquiring authentic quark cheese, often with a variety of brands and styles to choose from.

When searching for quark cheese, it is important to consider factors such as freshness, fat content, and intended culinary use. Many consumers appreciate quark for its creamy texture and mild flavor, making it suitable for both savory and sweet dishes. Exploring local farmers’ markets or artisanal cheese shops can also yield high-quality, locally produced quark, which may offer a fresher and more authentic experience compared to mass-produced alternatives.

In summary, while quark cheese is not yet as ubiquitous in the US as other dairy products, its availability is steadily increasing through diverse retail channels. Consumers interested in incorporating quark into their diet should leverage specialty stores, online platforms, and local producers to find the best options. Understanding the product’s characteristics and sourcing from reputable vendors ensures a

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.