Can You Freeze Yogurt
on Mar 24, 2022
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When it comes to fresh dairy products like yogurt, it isn’t always clear if they can be frozen. The good news is you can freeze fresh yogurt to extend its shelf life.
Today’s article discusses how to safely freeze yogurt and the different ways to use it after it has been thawed.
Can Yogurt Be Frozen?
You may not realize it but fresh dairy products including yogurt can be frozen. For the best taste and texture, we recommend freezing yogurt for no longer than 2 months. Keep reading to learn about 5 easy ways to freeze yogurt.
5 Easy Ways to Freeze Yogurt
1. In the Original Container
This is the easiest method. Just add the date to the container and place it in a freezer bag. This will help protect the yogurt from freezer burn and taking on the odor of other foods in your freezer. It will also protect your freezer should the container break.
2. In a Freezer-Friendly Ziptop bag
If the yogurt container is already open or for smaller portions, place the yogurt into resealable freezer bags. Remove the excess air, add the date, and store the bags in the freezer.
3. In a Freezer-Safe Container
For greater portion control, use a freezer-safe container. Add the yogurt to the container, leaving space at the top of the container to allow for expansion. Add the date, and place the yogurt in the freezer.
4. In an Ice Cube Tray
If you’ll be using the yogurt in smoothies or in recipes where you’ll only need a small amount, add the yogurt to an ice-cube tray and freeze until firm. Transfer the cubes to a freezer bag or an airtight freezer-safe container. If using freezer bags, remember to remove the excess air before sealing. Label the container and place it in the freezer.
5. In Scoops
Similar to the ice-cube method, freezing yogurt in scoops is a good option if you’ll be using it in smoothies. This method works best with Greek yogurt because it’s much thicker than regular yogurt and can be formed into scoops.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and use an ice-cream scoop to portion the yogurt onto the tray. Freeze for several hours or overnight, until frozen. Transfer the scoops to a freezer bag or an airtight freezer-safe container. If using freezer bags, remember to remove the excess air before sealing. Label the container and place it in the freezer.
How Long Can You Freeze Yogurt?
If properly packaged and sealed, yogurt can be frozen for up to 2 months. After this amount of time the flavor, texture, and quality of the yogurt may be affected.
What Happens To The Yogurt After Freezing?
- Texture: The texture of the yogurt might be a bit grainy after thawing. This varies from brand to brand.
- Flavor: The yogurt could have a tangier flavor. This is because freezing the yogurt can affect the growth process of the naturally occuring bacteria .
- Consistency: The yogurt might separate after it has thawed. Stir well before using but note that the consistency of the yogurt will not be the same as it was before freezing.
How to Defrost Yogurt
Frozen yogurt should be thawed in the fridge for several hours or overnight. It should not be left at room temperature. Remember to stir it well before using. If the yogurt has separated a lot, try using a hand mixer or a blender to make it smoother. Note that thawed yogurt cannot be refrozen.
Ways to Eat Frozen Yogurt
If you love frozen yogurt popsicles, you can place popsicle sticks in the yogurt before freezing, and then enjoy them straight from the freezer. You can also make fruit-flavored frozen yogurt and then freeze it to enjoy later.
Can You Freeze Probiotic Yogurt?
All types of yogurt can be frozen. According to scientific articles, freezing yogurt does not negatively affect probiotic bacteria.
Can you freeze Greek-style Yogurt?
Yes, Greek-style yogurt can be frozen. Because of its firmer texture, it can be frozen in scoops and then used to make smoothies.
Best Frozen Yogurt Recipes
How to Freeze Yogurt Properly (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Ingredients
- 1 cup yogurt
- Ice cream scoop
- parchment paper
- baking sheet
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Use an ice-cream scoop to portion the yogurt onto the tray.
- Freeze for several hours or overnight, until frozen.
- Transfer the scoops to a freezer bag or an airtight freezer-safe container. If using freezer bags, remember to remove the excess air before sealing. Label the container and place it in the freezer.
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.
