There’s a certain magic that happens when you transform everyday milk and a bit of live-culture yogurt into a silky, comforting yogurt that’s perfect any time of the day. Using the slow cooker takes all the guesswork out of this process, letting you set it and practically forget it until your yogurt has reached pillowy perfection.
Ingredients
- 8 cups whole milk (preferably organic)
- ½ cup plain yogurt with active cultures (for starter)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
- 1–2 tablespoons sweetener of your choice (e.g., honey, maple syrup, or sugar), optional
Instructions
1. Begin by pouring the milk into your slow cooker. Cover and set it to low heat and let it cook for about 2½ hours. The goal is to gently heat the milk to around 180°F (82°C), which helps give the yogurt its thicker texture.
2. Once your milk is up to temperature, turn off the slow cooker and allow the milk to cool for about 2–3 hours, until it drops to about 110°F (43°C). This gentle drop in temperature prepares a cozy environment for the yogurt cultures to grow.
3. In a small bowl, mix a cup of the warm milk with the plain yogurt until it’s thoroughly combined. Pour this mixture back into the slow cooker, stirring gently to distribute the cultures evenly.
4. Cover the slow cooker once again, then wrap it with a thick towel or blanket to keep the heat in. Let this mixture rest for at least 8 hours or overnight. This is when the milk transforms into a gently tangy, velvety yogurt.
5. At the end of the resting period, give it a quick taste. Stir in the vanilla extract and sweetener if you wish, or leave it plain for a tangy treat. Transfer your newly minted yogurt into lidded containers and keep it chilled in the fridge.
Enjoy the creamy, comforting taste of your homemade slow cooker yogurt as a midday snack, a refreshing breakfast topped with fruit, or a delicious swap in dressings and dips.
This recipe is wonderful for families and yogurt enthusiasts alike. It’s versatile, easy on the wallet, and you can tailor it to your tastes by adjusting sweetness or playing around with different milk types, such as reduced-fat or lactose-free options. Stir in fresh berries, fruit purees, or even a swirl of peanut butter if you like. It’s also a fantastic choice if you are looking for a probiotic-rich, digestive-friendly option. Make it your own by experimenting with creative flavors, and trust that this slow cooker method yields a smooth texture every single time.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
