Ready to jump into the world of homemade yogurt? Forget the store-bought stuff; making your own yogurt is not only fun but also lets you control what goes into it, guaranteeing freshness and flavor like never before. Whether you're a kitchen newbie or a seasoned chef, the right yogurt maker can turn this seemingly complex task into a walk in the park. Imagine transforming milk and starter cultures into creamy, delicious yogurt with just the push of a button!
Our guide is here to show you the top five yogurt makers, making your journey into homemade yogurt as smooth as the yogurt itself. Get ready to whip up some dairy magic right in your kitchen!
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7 Best Yogurt Makers
- Best Overall: Bear Yogurt Maker
- Best for Individual Servings: Euro Cuisine Yogurt Maker
- Best for Greek Yogurt: Euro Cuisine Greek Yogurt Maker
- Best for Easy Operation: DASH Greek Yogurt Maker
- Best Versatility: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- Best for Making Yogurt Cheese: Donvier Yogurt/Cheese Maker
- Best for Making Frozen Yogurt: Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt Maker
1. Best Overall
Bear Yogurt Maker
The Bear Yogurt Maker stands out for its versatility and ease of use. It's ideal for making various types of yogurt, including Greek-style and sour cream, and comes with a comprehensive recipe book. Its simplicity, combined with the ability to create multiple yogurt types, makes it the best overall choice.
What We Love
- 4-in-1 Functionality: Makes various yogurt types and soft cheese.
- Quality Build: Stainless steel pot and BPA-free glass jars.
- LED Operation: Clear-touch controls with auto shut-off.
- Consistent Heating: 360° heat for even yogurt making.
- Greek Yogurt Strainer: Included for easy preparation.
What to Keep in Mind
- Careful Cleaning: Avoid water in the inner pot.
Why It Might Be Right for You
For those who value versatility in their kitchen, the Bear Yogurt Maker is a perfect choice. Whether you're a fan of Greek yogurt, enjoy the tanginess of sour cream, or love experimenting with different yogurt textures, this maker has you covered. It's not just about making yogurt; it's about exploring a world of flavors and textures, all with the convenience of one compact appliance.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
This is my third yogurt maker in 20 years, and it's the best one yet. I used to go for individual jar types, but this one is less messy and more convenient since I don't have to pour milk into multiple jars. The control panel is fantastic, with an auto shut-off feature for different yogurt types. It's sleek, has a stainless lining for easy cleaning, and comes with two sealable containers. Definitely a great value for the price.
2. Best for Individual Servings
Euro Cuisine Yogurt Maker
The Euro Cuisine YM80 is ideal for individual servings, with its seven 6oz glass containers allowing for different flavors. It's perfect for those who want to make small batches or enjoy a variety of flavors.
What We Love
- Multiple Flavors: Seven 6oz glass containers for different yogurt flavors.
- Convenient Features: On/off switch, working indicator light, and dishwasher-safe jars.
- Warranty and Safety: Three-year warranty and BPA-free construction.
- Ample Capacity: Makes up to 42 ounces of yogurt.
- Easy Timing: Side timer for tracking yogurt cooking completion.
- Versatile Yogurt Texture: Option to make firmer yogurt by adding powdered milk.
What to Keep in Mind
- Manual Monitoring: Requires checking the side timer for yogurt readiness.
Why It Might Be Right for You
The Euro Cuisine Yogurt Maker is perfect for yogurt enthusiasts who love variety in their diet. Whether you're a fan of experimenting with different flavors or need a reliable way to make large batches of yogurt, this machine has you covered. Its user-friendly design, combined with the ability to customize yogurt firmness, makes it a versatile choice for any yogurt lover. It's not just a yogurt maker; it's a gateway to exploring a world of flavors and textures in the comfort of your home.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
I finally decided to try making my own yogurt after hearing about it from friends, and this yogurt maker is a game-changer. It's incredibly simple to use, so much so that even a toddler could handle it safely. The little jars are perfect for holding the yogurt, and after leaving it in the maker overnight, I get creamy yogurt every time. It's also easy to clean and store, making it a great way to save money on yogurt.
3. Best for Greek Yogurt
Euro Cuisine Greek Yogurt Maker
This yogurt maker is specifically designed for making Greek yogurt, offering a simple and effective way to strain regular yogurt into thick, creamy Greek yogurt. It's perfect for those who prefer Greek yogurt's texture and consistency.
What We Love
- Specialized for Greek Yogurt: Ideal for transforming regular yogurt into Greek or cheese yogurt.
- Large Capacity: Can convert up to 2qt of plain yogurt.
- Versatile Uses: Perfect for spreads, dips, salad toppings, or desserts.
- Quality Material: Made of BPA-free plastics and polypropylene with a fine mesh strainer.
- Adjustable Thickness: Strains yogurt for 3-12 hours for desired consistency.
- Compact Design: Measures 10 x 7.5 x 5.25 inches, fits easily in the refrigerator.
What to Keep in Mind
- Strainer Only: Does not make yogurt from scratch, only strains it.
- Manual Cleaning: Not dishwasher safe; requires hand washing.
Why It Might Be Right for You
If you're a Greek yogurt aficionado, the Euro Cuisine Greek Yogurt Maker is tailored for you. It's designed to transform ordinary yogurt into the thick, creamy delight that is Greek yogurt. This maker is for those who not only love the taste but also enjoy the process of crafting their perfect bowl of Greek yogurt.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
This yogurt strainer is exactly what I needed. I used a 52 oz. container of Fairlife milk and half a cup of cream for my yogurt, and it all fit perfectly in the strainer. The whey collected neatly in the bottom while thick Greek yogurt stayed in the strainer. Despite others saying it's hard to clean, I found it quite easy, especially if you rinse it right after transferring the yogurt to a bowl. I'm really happy with this purchase.
4. Best for Easy Operation
DASH Greek Yogurt Maker
The DASH Greek Yogurt Maker is distinguished by its user-friendly design, featuring an LCD display and timer for effortless yogurt making. Its simplicity and convenience make it ideal for those who want a straightforward, no-fuss experience in creating homemade Greek yogurt. This ease of use, combined with the ability to make large batches, positions it as the best choice for those seeking both simplicity and efficiency in their yogurt-making process.
What We Love
- Custom Flavors: Create unique yogurt flavors with fruits and toppings.
- LCD Display and Timer: Ensures perfect yogurt consistency.
- Recipe Guide Included: Experiment with various flavor combinations.
- Large Capacity: Comes with two 1.5-quart buckets for big batches.
- Dishwasher Safe: Buckets and strainer are easy to clean.
- Compact and Lightweight: Ideal for small spaces and easy storage.
- Healthier Options: Control ingredients for homemade, healthier yogurt.
What to Keep in Mind
- No Cooling Function: Lacks a built-in cooling feature.
- Size: Measures 7" L x 7" W x 9.5" H, consider your kitchen space.
Why It Might Be Right for You
The DASH Greek Yogurt Maker is a match for those who value simplicity and efficiency in their kitchen gadgets. If you're looking for an easy-to-use yogurt maker that takes the guesswork out of the process, while still allowing for creative flavor combinations, this is the yogurt maker for you. It's about enjoying the process as much as the product, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
I still absolutely love this yogurt maker. In fact, I love it so much that I ended up buying a second one. Now I can make double batches, which is fantastic for my needs.
5. Best Versatility
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
The Instant Pot Duo is not just a yogurt maker; it's a multifunctional appliance that can also serve as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, and warmer. This versatility makes it an invaluable addition to any kitchen.
What We Love
- 7-in-1 Appliance: Yogurt maker, pressure cooker, slow cooker, and more.
- Easy Yogurt Button: Simplifies homemade yogurt preparation.
- Smart Programs: 13 settings for various dishes.
- Quick Cooking: Up to 70% faster than traditional methods.
- Easy Clean-Up: Dishwasher-safe parts.
- Safety Features: Over 10 built-in protections.
- Family-Sized: Suitable for up to 6 people.
- Quality Pot: Food-grade stainless-steel for even cooking.
What to Keep in Mind
- Size Options: Comes in 3, 6, and 8-quart sizes.
Why It Might Be Right for You
The Instant Pot Duo is ideal for the culinary enthusiast who loves multifunctionality. If your kitchen activities range from slow cooking to yogurt making, this appliance is your all-in-one solution. It's perfect for those who appreciate having a variety of cooking methods at their fingertips, streamlining their kitchen experience without sacrificing quality or options.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
I always thought I was hopeless at cooking, but this appliance has truly transformed my kitchen experience. It's broadened our meal options significantly, and I've managed to learn so much. The best part is its simplicity – I just put everything in, and it all comes out perfectly cooked without any need for constant stirring or dealing with a bunch of dirty dishes. While I haven't used it much for cooking meats since I don't eat them often, I'm looking forward to experimenting more. The yogurt feature is another highlight. I've made it three times, and it's the only yogurt my 2-year-old will eat. It's cost-effective, too, since I can make a gallon of organic yogurt much cheaper than store-bought. It does require some patience, with about 20 minutes of hands-on work and some waiting around for the heating, cooling, and incubating processes, but I've got the hang of the timings now. It's amazing how versatile this appliance is with the variety of foods you can prepare in it!
6. Best for Making Yogurt Cheese
Donvier Yogurt/Cheese Maker
The Donvier Yogurt/Cheese Maker is uniquely suited for transforming yogurt into soft cheese. Its design and functionality make it the best option for those looking to make yogurt cheese at home.
What We Love
- Water Removal: Efficiently removes excess water from store-bought yogurt.
- Yogurt to Cheese: Transforms yogurt into soft cheese easily.
- High Conversion Rate: Converts 3 cups of yogurt into 1 cup of yogurt cheese in about 24 hours.
- Healthy Alternatives: Creates low-fat options compared to cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream.
- Quality Design: Features a plastic container and stainless-steel fine-mesh strainer.
- Easy to Clean: Dishwasher-safe and seals to prevent odor transfer.
- User-Friendly: Comes with simple instructions and recipes.
What to Keep in Mind
- Functionality: Primarily a strainer, not a yogurt maker.
- Time-Consuming: Takes about 24 hours for conversion.
Why It Might Be Right for You
The Donvier Yogurt/Cheese Maker is perfect for those who love to explore the world of homemade cheeses. If you're interested in turning your yogurt into a rich, creamy cheese, this is the tool for you. It's ideal for culinary adventurers who are eager to expand their homemade dairy repertoire beyond traditional yogurt.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
I'm convinced that no store-bought yogurt can match the richness and thickness of the homemade yogurt I make with whole milk using this device. It's incredibly simple to make and super easy to clean – just a quick spray does the job. I'm really impressed by how well it works and how effortlessly it cleans up. I'm very happy with it.
7. Best for Making Frozen Yogurt
Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt Maker
The Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt Maker excels in creating delicious frozen yogurt in just 20 minutes. Its quick operation and ease of use make it the best choice for frozen yogurt enthusiasts.
What We Love
- Quick Treats: Makes frozen yogurt in just 20 minutes.
- Innovative Paddle: Patent-pending mixing paddle for effortless preparation.
- No Ice Needed: Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice.
- Versatile: Can also make ice cream and sorbet.
- Large Capacity: Produces up to 1-½ quarts of frozen treats.
- User-Friendly Design: Easy-lock lid with large spout for simple ingredient addition.
- BPA-Free: Safe and health-conscious material choice.
What to Keep in Mind
- Freezer Space: Requires freezer space for the bowl.
- Warranty: Comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
Why It Might Be Right for You
For frozen treat lovers, the Cuisinart yogurt maker is a dream. If you enjoy a cold, refreshing bowl of frozen yogurt on a hot day, or love hosting gatherings where a homemade frozen dessert is the star, this maker is your go-to appliance. It's all about bringing the joy of frozen yogurt making into your home with ease and style.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
I'm really pleased with how easy this ice cream maker is to use. Just freeze the container for 24 hours, mix the ingredients, refrigerate them, and then let the machine do its magic for 15 to 20 minutes. It's a bit noisy, but that doesn't bother me. The amount it makes is perfect for two or three people, or even for multiple servings if you're a big ice cream fan. The ice cream comes out soft initially, but you can firm it up in the freezer if you prefer. Cleaning it is a breeze too. Overall, I'm so glad I bought this. I'm even considering getting another one.
How We Chose Our Top Picks
"Our aim is to give you expert advice about these products. Even though we haven't used each one ourselves, we've done a lot of research. We've looked at what people say in their reviews on Amazon and other places. This helps us understand how well these products work, how long they last, and how easy they are to use. We also compare them to similar products. This way, we can help you find the best one for what you need."
Our Selection
When picking the best products, we didn't just look at one thing. We thought about:
- How Well They Work: Do they do a good job? Are they reliable?
- How Long They Last: Are they made well? Will they keep working for a long time?
- How Easy They Are to Use: Can anyone use them without trouble? Are they simple to clean?
- What People Say: What are customers saying about them? Do most people have a good experience?
By looking at all these things, we made sure to choose products that stand out. We want you to have the best tool for what you need, whether it's making yogurt, ice cream, or something else. We hope our picks help make your choice easier.
What To Consider Before Buying The Best Yogurt Maker?
When choosing a yogurt maker, keep the following factors in mind.
Capacity
A capacity for yogurt makers is typically around six to eight cups of yogurt. This amount is generally good for a family or small group. If you are looking to make more yogurt, you will need to buy a larger maker.
Tough And Bold Design
The jars and lids are separated by an innovative stainless steel double-compartment design with a rubber grip for convenient handling. Many of them are small in form and remarkably light in weight for their size, making them simple to store.
Material And Quality
The quality of a yogurt maker is important because it will affect the end product. Some factors to consider when looking for a quality yogurt maker are the materials it is made out of and the quality of those materials. If a yogurt maker is made out of cheap materials, it is likely to break or not work well. This could lead to spoiled yogurt or even injuries if the machine explodes. It is important to find a quality yogurt maker that will last.
Easy Handling
A yogurt maker is a kitchen appliance used to make yogurt at home from milk and yogurt cultures. Many yogurt makers have an incubation period timer, which notifies the user when the yogurt is finished incubating and ready to eat. Some yogurt makers also have a cooling period, which notifies the user when the yogurt has cooled to the eating temperature.
There are many different types of yogurt makers on the market, but most have common features. They are made of lightweight materials that are easy to handle, and many are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Some even have carrying handles for easy transport.
Budget-Friendly
Making your own yogurt can be a budget-friendly way to enjoy this delicious snack. You can buy a yogurt maker for around $30, and the ingredients for making your own yogurt are relatively inexpensive. You can find recipes that fit your taste and budget with a little experimentation. Homemade yogurt also tends to be healthier than store-bought varieties since you can control the ingredients and portion size.
Easy Cleaning
Cleaning a yogurt maker is a simple task. The first step is to remove the yogurt container from the machine. Next, use a damp cloth to clean the inside and outside of the container. Finally, rinse the container with warm water and dry it thoroughly.
Warranty & Verdicts
These energy-efficient and multipurpose gadgets have a guarantee of 1-2 years. So you won't have to be concerned about its malfunction.
Accessories
Many best yogurt makers provide extras such as cups and jars, and some of them include additional pots and cups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of a stainless steel yogurt maker?
A stainless steel yogurt maker typically offers durability and even heat distribution, which is crucial for consistent yogurt making. They also tend to be easier to clean and can add a sleek look to your kitchen.
Can I use any glass jar in an electric yogurt maker?
Most electric yogurt makers are compatible with standard glass jars, but it's always best to check the specifications of your yogurt maker. Some come with their own glass jars designed to fit perfectly in the machine.
How important is a yogurt starter in making yogurt at home?
A yogurt starter is essential in homemade yogurt making. It contains the live bacterial cultures necessary to transform milk into yogurt. Without it, the fermentation process that gives yogurt its unique taste and texture won't happen.
Are glass jars better than plastic for making yogurt?
Glass jars are often preferred for making yogurt because they don't absorb odors or flavors and can be easily sterilized. They are also more eco-friendly compared to plastic.
Do yogurt makers prove homemade yogurt is healthier than store-bought?
Yogurt makers prove homemade yogurt can be healthier as you control the ingredients, avoiding additives and preservatives found in some store-bought regular yogurts. Homemade yogurt also allows for customization in terms of flavors and textures.
Can I make different types of yogurt in a yogurt maker?
Yes, with the right yogurt maker, you can make various types of yogurt, including Greek yogurt, regular yogurt, and even non-dairy yogurts, depending on the model and settings.
How do other yogurt makers compare to electric ones?
Other yogurt makers, like manual or non-electric ones, can be simpler but may require more effort and attention. Electric yogurt makers offer convenience and precision with features like automatic timers and temperature control.
Which Yogurt Maker is Right for You?
With all of this in mind, we hope you can now decide on what yogurt maker is the best for you and your home. All the options we presented can be great options for you and your home. Now it comes down to personal preference. We hope this post has aided you in your hunt for the ideal yogurt maker in the comfort of your home.
Thank you for reading, and enjoy your yogurt!
Items reviewed:
- Best Overall: Bear Yogurt Maker
- Best for Individual Servings: Euro Cuisine Yogurt Maker
- Best for Greek Yogurt: Euro Cuisine Greek Yogurt Maker
- Best for Easy Operation: DASH Greek Yogurt Maker
- Best Versatility: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
- Best for Making Yogurt Cheese: Donvier Yogurt/Cheese Maker
- Best for Making Frozen Yogurt: Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt Maker
Best Overall: Bear Yogurt Maker
The Bear Yogurt Maker stands out for its versatility and ease of use. It's ideal for making various types of yogurt, including Greek-style and sour cream, and comes with a comprehensive recipe book. Its simplicity, combined with the ability to create multiple yogurt types, makes it the best overall choice.
Please note that the reviews on this page have been edited for readability and clarity while maintaining the essence of the original content.
Further Reading
- For more insights and tips on making your own yogurt at home, be sure to check out the detailed guide at Serious Eats.
