Ever wondered what to do when you’re out of labneh cheese? We’ve got your back with some tasty substitutes that’ll keep your dishes delicious.
Whether you’re whipping up a dip or adding a creamy element to your meal, these alternatives will fit right in.
Curious about what works best? We’ve tried and tested a bunch of options, so you don’t have to. Each substitute brings its own unique twist that you might actually prefer.
Keep reading for some seriously good alternatives to labneh that won’t disappoint.

5 Easy Substitutes for Labneh Cheese
For those who are new to the world of labneh, it is a thick, tangy cheese made from strained yogurt. It’s often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines for its creamy texture and slightly sour taste. But if you can’t find it or don’t have any on hand, here are 5 substitutes that will work just as well:
1 – Greek Yogurt & Homemade Recipe
The first time we tried Greek yogurt as a labneh substitute, we were pleasantly surprised. Greek yogurt is thick and creamy, just like labneh, making it a great option when you’re out of labneh.
The tang is close too, although a tad milder. We usually add a pinch of salt to mimic labneh’s flavour. Use it in a 1:1 ratio in any recipe calling for labneh.
We also love how easy it is to find Greek yogurt at any grocery store. If you’re curious about more yogurt substitutes, check out this handy guide on Greek yogurt substitutes.
We’ve used it in dips, spreads, and even on toast. Greek yogurt gets the job done, and it does it deliciously. Here is the recipe from loveandlemons.com.
2 – Cottage Cheese
Next, let’s talk cottage cheese. Remember that time we ran out of labneh and only had cottage cheese left? We thought we were doomed, but nope. Cottage cheese saved the day. It’s not as thick, but it has a rich, creamy vibe that’s hard to beat.
Here’s a key feature: it’s a bit chunkier. So, we like to blend it up for a smoother texture. The flavor? It’s mild and slightly salty. Just add a dash of lemon juice to give it that tangy punch reminiscent of labneh.
And here’s the best part: it works perfectly in a 1:1 ratio for labneh. We’ve tried it in dips and spreads, and it shines every time.
Check out our article on cottage cheese substitutes if you’re curious about other options.
3 – Ricotta Cheese
For our next substitute, let’s talk ricotta cheese. One day, we were craving labneh and only had ricotta. It was a risk, but it paid off.
Ricotta is smooth, creamy, and slightly sweet. We mixed in a bit of lemon juice to get that labneh tang. The texture is a bit lighter, but it works wonders in any recipe that calls for labneh.
Use it in a 1:1 ratio. We’ve enjoyed it in spreads and dips. Curious about other swaps? Check out this guide on ricotta cheese substitutes. It’s got more great alternatives.
4 – Cream Cheese
In terms of versatility, we’ve all probably turned to cream cheese when the fridge looks barren. This one’s a smooth operator. Cream cheese is rich and super creamy with a slight tang.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice, and it mimics the labneh flair perfectly. We like it because it spreads easily on toast, making it our go-to for breakfast recipes.
Use it in a 1:1 ratio. We’ve tried it in dips, spreads, and it never fails. For more on this, check out our guide on cream cheese substitutes. It’s a game-changer in the world of cheese swaps!
5 – Softened Butter
Last, but definitely not least, let’s talk softened butter. We’ve all been there, fridge almost empty, but butter never lets us down. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
It might not have the tang, but a little lemon juice fixes that. This butter combo spreads easy and works wonders in dips and spreads. Use it in a 1:1 ratio. We’ve tried it, and trust us, it delights every time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for Labneh due to its thick, creamy texture and tart flavor. For an even closer match, you can strain Greek yogurt to achieve a similar consistency to Labneh.
Cottage cheese can replace Labneh in savory dishes. It’s not as smooth, but blending it with a little sour cream or yogurt can make it more comparable in texture and flavor.
Ricotta is a milder, creamier cheese compared to Labneh. While it won’t offer the same tanginess, it can serve as a smooth, creamy base in dips and spreads, making it a good substitute in less tangy recipes.
Cream cheese works well in sweet applications like desserts or frostings. While it’s richer and less tangy than Labneh, it provides a creamy consistency and mild flavor that works well in cheesecakes or creamy dips.
Softened butter can be used in savory dishes to replace Labneh, though it will lack the tangy flavor. It works best when combined with other ingredients like yogurt or sour cream to add the desired creaminess and richness.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.