Homemade Fresh Cheese with Milk, Yogurt, and Lemon

If you’ve ever wanted to make your own fresh cheese at home, this easy recipe will surprise you with how simple and satisfying it is. With just three basic ingredients — milk, yogurt, and lemon — you can create a creamy, mild, and versatile cheese that tastes far better than anything store-bought. It’s soft, light, and slightly tangy, perfect for breakfast, salads, or even spreading on warm bread.

The magic lies in how the acid from the lemon and yogurt gently separates the curds from the whey, leaving you with a fresh, delicate cheese that feels like a little homemade miracle.

Ingredients

1 liter whole milk (preferably fresh, not UHT)
1 cup plain, unsweetened natural yogurt
½ lemon (juice only)
Salt to taste

You Will Need

A clean cotton towel or cheesecloth
A fine sieve or strainer
A medium saucepan
A bowl to collect the whey

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Milk

Pour the milk into a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Warm it slowly until it’s just about to boil — around 90°C (194°F) if you have a kitchen thermometer. You’ll notice small bubbles forming around the edges, but don’t let it reach a full boil. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.

Step 2: Add the Yogurt

Once the milk is hot, lower the heat slightly and stir in the yogurt. Mix gently with a wooden spoon or whisk to combine. The yogurt helps start the curdling process and gives the cheese a creamy texture.

Step 3: Add the Lemon Juice

Now, squeeze in the juice of half a lemon (strain out the seeds first). Stir very gently, and you’ll soon see the milk begin to separate — the curds (white solids) will form, and the whey (a pale yellow liquid) will appear. Let the mixture sit over low heat for 3–5 minutes without stirring too much, allowing the curds to fully form.

Step 4: Strain the Cheese

Line a sieve with your clean cotton towel or cheesecloth and place it over a bowl to catch the liquid. Carefully pour the curdled mixture into the sieve. Let it drain for 15–20 minutes if you like a soft, spreadable cheese, or up to 1 hour for a firmer texture. You can gently twist the cloth to squeeze out more whey if needed.

Step 5: Season and Shape

Once drained, transfer the curds to a bowl. Add salt to taste and mix gently. If you’d like, you can form the cheese into a small round shape by pressing it inside the towel and placing it under a light weight for 1–2 hours.

Step 6: Chill and Enjoy

Refrigerate the cheese for at least 1 hour before serving. It will firm up slightly as it cools. Serve it fresh with bread, olive oil, herbs, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet touch.

Tips & Variations

Richer Flavor: Use full-fat milk and a thick, creamy yogurt for the best taste and texture.
Flavored Cheese: Mix in herbs like thyme, oregano, or chives before chilling.
Tangy Option: Add a little more lemon juice for a sharper, more citrusy cheese.
Storage: Keep your homemade cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

Spread on toast or crackers with a drizzle of olive oil and sea salt.
Crumble over salads, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Use as a filling for savory pastries or stuffed peppers.
Serve with fresh fruit, nuts, and honey for a delightful breakfast.

FAQs

Q: Can I use low-fat milk?
You can, but the cheese will be less creamy and yield a smaller amount. Whole milk gives the best results.

Q: What can I do with the leftover whey?
Don’t throw it away! Whey is full of nutrients. You can use it in smoothies, soups, or even when kneading bread to give extra flavor.

Q: How long will the cheese last?
Homemade cheese is best enjoyed fresh, within 3–4 days, stored in the fridge in a covered container.

Q: Can I replace lemon juice with vinegar?
Yes, you can use about 1 tablespoon of white vinegar instead of lemon juice. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

This Homemade Fresh Cheese is proof that you don’t need fancy tools or ingredients to make something truly special. In under an hour, you’ll have a soft, fresh, and naturally delicious cheese — perfect for any occasion.