Creamy Homemade Yogurt
After 30 years of perfecting this recipe, I've discovered that making yogurt at home is not only simple but incredibly satisfying. This creamy homemade yogurt is rich and delicious, and it's crafted without any fancy equipment. Using just a few basic ingredients, you can create a thick, smooth yogurt that beats store-bought any day. It's incredibly versatile—enjoy it plain, with fresh fruit, or as a base for smoothies and sauces. Once you make your first batch, you can use your homemade yogurt as a starter for future creations, ensuring that you always have a fresh supply on hand!
8
Servings
80
Calories
2
Ingredients
Ingredients
whole milk
1/2 gallon (can use lowfat or skim milk if desired)
Mahdzoon or plain yogurt starter
1/2 cup (ensure it contains live cultures)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it reaches just a boil. Stir occasionally to prevent it from scorching.
2
Once it begins to boil, remove the saucepan from heat and let the milk cool until it feels warm to the touch but not hot (aim for around 120°F).
3
Transfer the warm milk into a large glass or Pyrex bowl. Stir in the Mahdzoon starter or the store-bought plain yogurt until fully dissolved.
4
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, then wrap it entirely in towels to retain warmth.
5
Leave the covered bowl at room temperature for about 3-4 hours, allowing the yogurt to set until it's thickened. The time may vary based on room temperature.
6
Once set, transfer the yogurt to the refrigerator and chill for at least 8 hours before serving to enhance the flavor and texture.
7
Store leftovers in the refrigerator. You can customize your yogurt just before serving by mixing in fruit preserves, jam, or a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor.
Nutrition Information
4g
Fat
6g
Carbs
4g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Homemade Yogurt?
It is a rich, smooth, and thick yogurt made with just a few basic ingredients and no fancy equipment.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
Only 2 ingredients are required: milk and a yogurt starter.
What type of milk is recommended for this yogurt?
Whole milk is recommended for the creamiest texture, but lowfat or skim milk can also be used.
What can I use as a yogurt starter?
You can use Mahdzoon or store-bought plain yogurt, provided it contains live cultures.
Do I need a yogurt maker for this recipe?
No, this recipe is designed to be made without any fancy equipment.
How should I heat the milk?
Heat the milk in a large saucepan over medium heat until it just reaches a boil.
How do I prevent the milk from scorching while heating?
Stir the milk occasionally as it heats to prevent it from sticking or scorching.
What is the target temperature for adding the starter?
The milk should be cooled until it is warm to the touch, approximately 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
How much starter should I use for a half gallon of milk?
You should use 1/2 cup of Mahdzoon or plain yogurt starter.
How long does the yogurt need to set at room temperature?
It typically takes about 3 to 4 hours to set and thicken.
Does the room temperature affect the setting time?
Yes, the setting time may vary depending on the temperature of your room.
How should the bowl be prepared during the setting process?
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and wrap the entire bowl in towels to retain heat.
Why is it necessary to wrap the bowl in towels?
Wrapping the bowl in towels helps maintain the warmth required for the fermentation process.
How long should the yogurt be chilled before serving?
The yogurt should be refrigerated for at least 8 hours to enhance its flavor and texture.
Can I use my homemade yogurt as a starter for the next batch?
Yes, you can use your homemade yogurt as a starter for future creations.
Is this homemade yogurt probiotic?
Yes, as it is made with live cultures, it is a probiotic-rich fermented food.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
How many calories are in a single serving?
There are 80 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 4 grams of fat.
How much protein is in one serving of this yogurt?
There are 4 grams of protein per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 6 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How can I add flavor to my yogurt?
You can mix in fruit preserves, jam, or a splash of vanilla extract just before serving.
Where should I store the finished yogurt?
The yogurt should be stored in the refrigerator.
Can I use this yogurt in smoothies?
Yes, it is very versatile and serves as an excellent base for smoothies and sauces.
What is the benefit of making yogurt at home?
It is simple, satisfying, and results in a thick, smooth texture that often beats store-bought options.
Is Mahdzoon required for this recipe?
No, while Mahdzoon is great, any plain yogurt starter with live cultures will work.
What kind of bowl is best for the setting process?
A large glass or Pyrex bowl is recommended for transferring the warm milk.
Should I stir the starter into the milk?
Yes, stir the starter into the warm milk until it is fully dissolved.
Can I eat the yogurt immediately after it sets?
It is best to chill it for 8 hours first to properly develop the flavor and texture.
What happens if I use lowfat milk instead of whole milk?
The yogurt will still set, but it may be slightly less creamy than yogurt made with whole milk.