How to Make Greek Yogurt

Forget storebought and go DIY.

greek yogurt

Greek yogurt is one of our favorite dietary staples. Packed with lean protein, high in calcium, and brimming with probiotics, potassium, and B12, this creamy treat is easy to whip up in your own kitchen! Make your own homemade Greek yogurt with our simple tips.

1. Heat Up Half Gallon of Milk
Simmer the milk on the stove top over medium low heat, uncovered until just below boiling, so that it is at a simmer, about 200 degrees F.
*Note that it is important to make sure that the pot has a lid available, because you will cover your yogurt later.

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2. Cool the Milk
Milk should be cooled until it is just warm to the touch, around 110 to 115 degrees F.

3. Add 1/2 Cup Yogurt 

Remove one cup warm milk. Whisk half cup plain, unsweetened, commercial yogurt (does not need to be Greek, but can be) into the cup of milk until incorporated. Whisk it back into the whole pot of warm milk.

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4. Use one of the methods below to let the yogurt sit, warm (about 110 to 115 degrees F), for at least 4 hours & up to overnight

1. Cover the pot, wrap it in towels, and place in the oven with just the oven light on.
2. Wrap the pot with a heating pad on the lowest setting and place on a counter top, covered.
3. Keep the yogurt in a dehydrator left at 110 degrees F.
4. Place the mixture in an insulated, capped thermos. Wrap with towels and place in a warm spot (a spot that doesn’t get a lot of cool air).
5. Pour yogurt into a glass jar. Add the lid. Let sit in the sun for 4 hours. This can also work on a window ledge that the sun is hitting. This works best in the summer in most places, but don’t let the jar get very hot.

5. Strain the Yogurt to Thicken

1. Line a strainer with one layer of cheesecloth so that it goes a bit over the edges. Place the strainer over a bowl so that it sits comfortably, with space beneath.
2. Add the yogurt to the cheese cloth lined strainer over the bowl, and place in the fridge for 2- 6 hours. Most of the liquid/whey will drain from the yogurt into the bowl, leaving you with a thick, Greek-style yogurt.

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6. Add Toppings

Top with honey, berries, and/or granola to serve. Enjoy!

Here are some recipes that contain Greek yogurt:

8 Interesting Ways to Use Greek Yogurt
Skinny Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip
Clean Eating Chicken Salad
Twice-Baked Potatoes

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12 Comments

    1. Hi Lara,

      Usually this will keep for about 2 weeks. I usually live by the “when if doubt, throw it out!” method. So if you’re not sure if it’s still good, toss.

  1. Hello Gale, I’ve made your Greek yogurt recipe four times now and it has turned out perfect every time. I’ve served it at a church brunch with fruit sauce and at a breakfast party with fresh fruit and crunchy granola to spoon over it. It is so delicious. I use organic milk and yogurt to make it extra healthy. I have some in the oven right now. Taking it to a get together where it will be very appreciated. Thanks for making me look like great.

    1. Hi Glenna, Thank you so much for the feedback. We’re thrilled it was a hit at your church brunch. 🙂

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