20 Creamy Kefir Cheese Recipes Delicious

Looking for a creamy, tangy twist to elevate your meals? Kefir cheese is the secret star your kitchen has been missing! Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack, a cozy dinner, or a show-stopping appetizer, these 20 luscious recipes will make it irresistibly delicious. From herby spreads to dreamy desserts, get ready to fall in love with kefir cheese all over again—let’s dive in!

Garlic Herb Kefir Cheese Spread

This creamy, tangy spread is a breeze to whip up and packs a punch of fresh herb and garlic flavor—perfect for slathering on crackers or crusty bread.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole-milk kefir cheese (or drained plain kefir yogurt)
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the kefir cheese, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp sea salt. Stir until smooth and well blended.
2. Fold in 1/4 cup chives, 2 tbsp dill, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until evenly distributed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld (or up to 3 days for a stronger taste).

The magic here? The kefir cheese’s natural tang balances the garlic and herbs beautifully, creating a spread that’s rich yet refreshing. Serve chilled with veggie sticks or warm pita—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Tip: For extra creaminess, let the spread sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Spicy Jalapeño Kefir Cheese Dip

This creamy, tangy dip packs a punch with fresh jalapeños and a hint of garlic—perfect for game day or a snackable weeknight treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain kefir cheese (or labneh)
• 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (about 1/4 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine kefir cheese, jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, cumin, and salt. Stir until fully blended.
2. Fold in cilantro, reserving a pinch for garnish.
3. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with reserved cilantro.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld (or serve immediately for a brighter taste).

The magic here? Kefir cheese’s creamy tang balances the jalapeños’ heat, while a quick chill turns it into a spreadable, scoopable dream.

Tip: For extra smokiness, char the jalapeños in a dry skillet before dicing.

Roasted Red Pepper Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy spread is a showstopper—smoky roasted peppers and garlic mingle with rich kefir cheese for a dip that’s equally at home on a charcuterie board or smeared on crusty bread.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole-milk kefir cheese (or labneh)
• 1 large red bell pepper, roasted, peeled, and finely chopped
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup whole-milk kefir cheese, 1 large roasted red pepper (chopped), 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Fold gently until fully blended.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
3. Before serving, drizzle with a touch more olive oil and sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped parsley.

The magic here? Roasting the pepper deepens its sweetness, while the kefir cheese keeps everything luxuriously smooth—no fancy tools required.

Tip: For extra smokiness, char the pepper directly over a gas flame until blistered, then steam in a bowl covered with plastic wrap before peeling.

Lemon Dill Kefir Cheese Ball

This bright, tangy cheese ball is a crowd-pleaser with its zesty lemon and fresh dill flavor—perfect for spreading on crackers or veggies at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup plain kefir
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and kefir with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
3. Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Scoop the cheese mixture onto the center, then wrap tightly, shaping it into a ball as you go. Chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to firm up.
4. Before serving, roll the cheese ball in chopped walnuts until evenly coated. Serve with crackers or fresh veggies.

The kefir adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cream cheese, while the lemon and dill keep every bite refreshing. Tip: For extra flavor, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes before chopping.

Smoked Paprika Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy cheese spread gets a smoky kick from paprika and comes together with just a few simple ingredients—perfect for slathering on crusty bread or crackers.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain kefir
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small garlic clove, minced

Instructions:

1. Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set it over a bowl. Pour in the kefir, cover, and refrigerate for 24 hours to drain (the whey will collect in the bowl below).
2. Transfer the thickened kefir cheese to a mixing bowl. Stir in the salt, 1 tsp smoked paprika, olive oil, and minced garlic until fully combined.
3. Scoop into a serving dish, drizzle with a little extra olive oil, and dust lightly with more smoked paprika.

The magic here? The kefir cheese stays luxuriously creamy but holds its shape, with the smoky paprika playing off the gentle tang. Tip: For a richer flavor, let the finished cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

Sun-Dried Tomato Kefir Cheese

This tangy, creamy spread is a flavor-packed upgrade to your cheese board—think sun-dried tomatoes and garlic mingling with the subtle zing of kefir.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain kefir (full-fat preferred)
• 1/3 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set over a bowl. Pour in the kefir, cover, and refrigerate for 12–24 hours until thickened (you’ll get about 1 cup of cheese). Discard the liquid.
2. Transfer the strained kefir cheese to a bowl. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper until fully combined.
3. Fold in the basil, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve drizzled with a little extra olive oil and a sprinkle of basil. Pair with crusty bread or crackers.

The slow straining gives this cheese a luxuriously thick texture, while the tomatoes add bursts of sweet-umami richness. Tip: For a smoother spread, pulse everything (except the basil) in a food processor before folding in the herbs.

Chive and Onion Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy spread is like a lighter, probiotic-packed cousin to cream cheese—perfect for schmearing on toast or dolloping over roasted potatoes.

Ingredients

• 4 cups whole-milk kefir
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
• 2 tbsp minced red onion
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set it over a deep bowl. Pour the kefir into the strainer, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 24 hours (the whey will drain, leaving thick cheese).
2. Transfer the strained cheese to a mixing bowl. Fold in the chives, red onion, sea salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
3. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld. Serve cool.

The subtle tang of kefir balances the sharpness of onion and chives, while the texture stays luxuriously spreadable—no gums or stabilizers needed.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of olive oil just before serving.

Pesto Infused Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy spread is a game-changer for your next cheese board—infused with vibrant pesto, it’s a breeze to whip up and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole-milk kefir
• 1/4 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set it over a bowl. Pour the kefir into the strainer, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 12–24 hours until thickened (like soft cream cheese).
2. Transfer the strained kefir cheese to a mixing bowl. Fold in the pesto, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until fully combined.
3. Spoon into a serving dish, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and swirl lightly with a knife for a marbled effect.

The magic here? The kefir’s natural tang balances the pesto’s herbaceous richness, creating a spread that’s equally at home on crusty bread or as a veggie dip.

Tip: For extra depth, toast pine nuts and sprinkle them on top just before serving.

Sweet Honey Walnut Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy spread is like a hug for your morning toast—lightly sweetened with honey and studded with crunchy walnuts for the perfect bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain kefir cheese (or strained Greek yogurt)
• 1/4 cup honey, plus extra for drizzling
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine kefir cheese, 1/4 cup honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until smooth and well blended.
2. Gently fold in toasted walnuts, reserving a tablespoon for garnish.
3. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl, drizzle lightly with extra honey, and sprinkle with the reserved walnuts.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld (or up to 24 hours for a thicker texture).

The magic here is in the contrast—silky cheese, floral honey, and nutty crunch make every spoonful exciting.

Tip: For extra depth, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.

Cucumber Dill Kefir Cheese Dip

This creamy, tangy dip is like a fresher, lighter cousin to tzatziki—perfect for dunking veggies or slathering on grilled pita.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain kefir cheese (or labneh)
• 1/2 cup finely grated English cucumber (about 1/2 small cucumber, squeezed dry)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine kefir cheese and grated cucumber.
2. Stir in 2 tbsp dill, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp pepper until fully blended.
3. Chill for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) to let flavors meld.

The kefir cheese gives this dip a luscious richness while keeping it probiotic-packed—no mayo required!

Tip: For extra texture, fold in a handful of minced radishes just before serving.

Cranberry Orange Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy spread is a bright twist on classic cheese dip, with citrusy orange and tart cranberries for a festive pop of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain whole-milk kefir
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh orange zest
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• Crackers or toasted baguette slices, for serving

Instructions:

1. Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set over a bowl. Pour kefir into the strainer, cover, and refrigerate for 12–24 hours until thickened (like soft cream cheese). Discard the liquid.
2. Transfer strained kefir cheese to a bowl. Fold in cranberries, orange zest, honey, and sea salt until fully combined.
3. Chill for 1 hour to let flavors meld. Serve with crackers or baguette slices.

The magic here? Straining kefir gives it a lush, spreadable texture—no fancy equipment needed—while the cranberry-orange duo adds a sweet-tart punch that wakes up any cheese board.

Tip: For extra zing, swap half the cranberries with chopped candied orange peel.

Caramelized Onion Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy spread is a game-changer for your next cheese board—slow-cooked onions add a touch of sweetness, while kefir keeps it light and zesty.

Ingredients:

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup plain whole-milk kefir
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter with 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes until softened.
2. Sprinkle in 1 tsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Continue cooking for another 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are deeply golden and jammy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup kefir and 4 oz cream cheese until smooth. Fold in the caramelized onions and 1 tbsp fresh thyme.
4. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

The magic here? The kefir’s subtle tang balances the onions’ richness, making it irresistibly spreadable yet light. Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the onions as they caramelize.

Basil Pesto Kefir Cheese Spread

This creamy, tangy spread is a fresh twist on classic pesto—perfect for slathering on crusty bread or stirring into pasta for a quick flavor boost.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup kefir cheese (or labneh)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped, about 10 seconds.
2. Add the kefir cheese, olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. Transfer to a bowl and let it sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

The pesto’s bright herbal notes and the kefir cheese’s tang make this spread irresistibly snackable—plus, it stays silky smooth even after chilling.

Tip: For a nut-free version, swap pine nuts with sunflower seeds!

Blueberry Lavender Kefir Cheese

This dreamy spread combines tangy kefir cheese with sweet blueberries and floral lavender for a brunch-worthy treat that feels fancy but comes together in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain kefir (full-fat recommended)
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp dried culinary lavender
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set over a bowl. Pour kefir into the strainer, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 12 hours to drain (liquid will collect in the bowl below). Discard the liquid.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine blueberries, honey, and lavender. Cook for 3-4 minutes until berries burst and mixture thickens slightly, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
3. Transfer drained kefir cheese to a bowl. Fold in the blueberry mixture, sea salt, and lemon zest until just swirled (don’t overmix for a marbled effect).
4. Chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve topped with extra blueberries and a lavender sprinkle.

The magic here is in the contrast: creamy, slightly tart cheese against jammy berries with just a whisper of perfume from the lavender. It’s like sunshine on toast!

Tip: For a smoother spread, pulse the blueberry mixture in a food processor before folding it in.

Roasted Garlic Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy spread is like a cross between labneh and cream cheese—with a deep, caramelized garlic kick that makes it irresistible on crusty bread or crackers.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole head garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups plain whole-milk kefir
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Roast the garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F. Slice off the top 1/4″ of the garlic head to expose cloves, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 40 minutes until golden and soft. Cool slightly.
2. Strain the kefir: Line a fine-mesh sieve with cheesecloth and set over a bowl. Pour in 2 cups kefir, cover, and refrigerate for 12–24 hours until thickened (like Greek yogurt). Discard the liquid.
3. Mix: Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into a bowl, mash into a paste, then stir into the strained kefir with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld. Garnish with chives if using.

The magic here? Roasting garlic tames its bite while adding smoky sweetness—a perfect contrast to the bright tang of kefir. Spread it thick on a bagel or dollop onto roasted veggies.

Tip: For extra tang, let the strained kefir sit at room temperature for 1 hour before mixing in the garlic.

Cumin Coriander Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy kefir cheese is spiced with warm cumin and citrusy coriander—perfect for spreading on crackers or dolloping onto roasted veggies.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole milk kefir
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set it over a bowl. Pour the kefir into the strainer, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 12–24 hours until thickened (the whey will collect in the bowl below).
2. Transfer the strained kefir cheese to a mixing bowl. Stir in the salt, cumin, and coriander until fully combined.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cilantro just before serving.

The magic here is in the texture—somewhere between labneh and cream cheese—with a bright, earthy spice kick that pairs beautifully with smoky grilled meats.

Tip: Save the leftover whey for smoothies or use it to brine chicken for extra tenderness!

Maple Pecan Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy spread with a sweet crunch is like dessert for your cheese board—minus the fuss.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain kefir cheese (or drained whole-milk yogurt)
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup, divided
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine kefir cheese, 2 tbsp maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
2. Heat a small skillet over medium-low. Add pecans and 1 tbsp maple syrup, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until sticky and fragrant. Cool slightly.
3. Fold half the pecans into the cheese mixture. Transfer to a serving dish and top with remaining pecans.
4. Chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld (or serve immediately for a softer texture).

The contrast of velvety cheese, smoky-sweet nuts, and that hint of vanilla makes this a standout—it’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a solo snack attack.

Tip: For extra depth, toast the pecans in a dry skillet before coating them in syrup.

Herbed Goat Cheese Style Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy herbed goat cheese-style kefir cheese is a breeze to make and adds a gourmet touch to crackers, salads, or toast.

• 4 cups plain whole-milk kefir
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives
• 1 tsp minced fresh thyme
• 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

1. Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set it over a deep bowl. Pour the kefir into the strainer, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 24 hours (the whey will drain, leaving thick cheese).
2. Transfer the strained kefir cheese to a bowl. Add the sea salt, lemon juice, olive oil, chives, thyme, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir gently until fully combined.
3. Scoop the mixture onto plastic wrap, shape into a log, and twist the ends to secure. Chill for at least 2 hours to firm up.

The result is a lusciously spreadable cheese with a bright herbal kick—perfect for elevating weeknight appetizers without fuss.

Tip: For extra tang, let the kefir drain for up to 36 hours. The longer it strains, the firmer the cheese!

Spiced Pumpkin Kefir Cheese

This creamy, tangy spread is like autumn in a bowl—perfect for slathering on toast or dolloping onto roasted veggies.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain kefir cheese (or drained Greek yogurt)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 2 tbsp chopped toasted pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together kefir cheese, pumpkin puree, and maple syrup until smooth.
2. Add cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt, stirring until fully combined.
3. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour (up to 3 days) to let flavors meld.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted pecans if using.

The magic here is in the balance—bright kefir tang cuts through the earthy pumpkin, while warm spices make it taste like dessert (but it’s totally savory!).

Tip: For extra richness, drizzle with honey right before serving.

Tangy Lime Cilantro Kefir Cheese

Bright, zesty, and creamy, this kefir cheese is a game-changer for your next snack board or taco night—no fancy equipment required!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole-milk kefir
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 small garlic clove, minced (about 1/2 tsp)

Instructions:

1. Strain the kefir: Line a fine-mesh sieve with cheesecloth or a coffee filter and set it over a bowl. Pour in the kefir and refrigerate for 12–24 hours until thickened (like cream cheese). Discard the liquid.
2. Mix the flavors: Transfer the strained kefir cheese to a bowl. Add the lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Fold gently until fully combined.
3. Chill & serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve with crackers, veggie sticks, or as a tangy spread for wraps.

The lime zest and fresh cilantro give this cheese a vibrant kick, while the slow straining ensures luxuriously rich texture—no store-bought substitute compares!

Tip: For a smoother consistency, blend the finished cheese in a food processor for 10 seconds.

Conclusion

With 20 luscious kefir cheese recipes, there’s something here for every craving—from tangy dips to dreamy desserts! We hope you’re inspired to whip up a batch (or three) and savor the creamy goodness. Don’t forget to share your favorite in the comments and pin this roundup for later. Happy cooking!