EASY Original Cold Start™ Yogurt - Instant Pot

Find out how EASY it is to make yogurt in your Instant Pot with the revolutionary Cold Start™ method! Two ingredients, no heating, no cooling, no special equipment and no straining.*
**FULL RECIPE: www.friedaloves...
Ingredients:
Fairlife milk or any ultra pasteurized milk
Plain yogurt with live & active cultures
Sweetened condensed milk (optional)
Simple Truth creamer or Natural Bliss (optional)
Choice of sweetener, vanilla extract and endless options for flavoring!
Instant Pot Yogurt for Newbies Guide: A reference for all questions about yogurt can be found here.
(www.friedaloves...)
Music: Heroic Reception - Keven MacLeod - KZbin Royalty Free Music
----------CLICK TO GET MORE LINKS AND RECIPES!-------------------
Subscribe to my KZbin channel:
/ friedalovesbread
BLOG: Friedalovesbread.com
FRIEDA LOVES BREAD is all about cooking and baking in the kitchen with step by step instructions, kitchen tips, tricks and cool tools. Learn along with me in the kitchen and enjoy eating your creations!
ABOUT FRIEDA Self taught baker and cook learning new things every day and sharing them on friedalovesbread.com. Baking and teaching are my passions and I'm so lucky to be able to do both.
CONTACT ME [e-mail]
FOLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Blog: friedalovesbrea...
Facebook: www.facebook.c...
Pinterest: / pins
Instagram: / friedalovesbread
Twitter: / friedaluvsbread

[@veronicas6986]

I like the fact that she is explaining the reasoning of the steps and the different types of bacteria and which types of bacteria make the yogurt thick and thin. It looks like that she has done a lot of research.

[@PDXTundra]

This is the best video on KZbin for making yogurt. Very well explained. And her website is terrific!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for your kind comments and for watching!🙂

[@louised6790]

Best Instant Pot yogurt tutorial ever! Thank you for sharing such detailed information with us. I love this and can’t wait to try it.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you! You'll have to let us know when you do try it and how you like it.🙂

[@louised6790]

Frieda Loves Bread Sooo, I finally got around to the yogurt this morning. I did exactly what you said and then I went to set the Instant Pot to the yogurtsetting...I don’t have a yogurt setting 🥴 UGH!!!!! On a happier note though, I found an excellent tip for the smelly sealing rings. Throw your clean sealing ring in the oven right on the rack or a cookie sheet (which ever is cleaner) and bake it at 250° for 20 minutes. Carefully do a sniff test but don’t burn your nose! If it still smells pop it back in for 10 more minutes. Tried and true. I just did mine yesterday. Be 100% certain that your ring is 100% silicone. Who knows what the knock offs are made of, ya know? If it melts or distorts then it’s not 100% silicone and should seek a refund. Enjoy your like new sealing ring!

[@FriedaFranchina]

@@louised6790 Uh oh! You can still warm up your milk to 110°F using the Saute Less setting, add your starter, wrap your pot in a large towel and put it in your oven, with *only* the oven light on to maintain the incubation temp (100°F-110°F) for 8-10 hours. Thanks for sharing the smelly seal tip! :-)

[@darleneanglin3651]

Your video deserves an award ! I love the education you provide.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you! :-)

[@sewahem9629]

I made this the other day and it turned out fantastic! Sooo SUPER EASY!!!!! I made it in my 3Qt mini Duo Plus, after I went and bought the Fairlife milk, La Lechera Sweetened and Condensed milk (who knew it came in a squeeze bottle) and a single serving size of Fage plain yogurt. Thank you for responding to my email asking if I could fit this in a mini. It turned out perfect, so rich, thick and creamy. I only used about 1.5 Tablespoons of the SWC (I'm not a big sugar person) I think I will bump it up to 3 tablespoons next time. I ended up with two 32oz Ball jars full. Thank you for this wonderful video! Now all I need to do is buy some Lemon curd and blueberries to mix in :) One more thing, depending on your schedule, you may want to make this at night, that way when you wake up in the morning it's ready to go into the fridge and it will be ready for you when you get home from work. Unless you have a second insert-it takes up your IP all day.

[@FriedaFranchina]

I'm glad you enjoyed this recipe and found it easy to make! The 3 quart is the perfect size. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. :-)

[@mikelannhill1571]

Best yogurt ever!! I started making it 10 days ago and have made 3 batches because my family lives it so much!

[@StevieWonders2020]

OMG----after all that excellent explanationl--------I simply do NOT understand why folks insist on adding sweetened condensed milk to yogurts. Completely again health principles!!!!!!!!!!!!! Crazy. I like many people are trying to find ways to reduce sugar in their diets.....crazy

[@DanScottChannel]

Great video Frieda. I've been making Dr. William Davis "L Reuteri" yogurt using half and half and it's been turning out thick using the "cold start" method with my Instant Pot. However, I decided to make some yogurt with regular whole milk and it never got thick. I now see that I need to use ultra pasteurized and filtered milk next time. So thanks so much for the detailed video and tips!

[@Brineytoes]

I did the L Reuteri yogurt and half my jars were thick and creamy, and half were horrible inedible curds and whey. We hated the super sour flavor and won’t be making that again. If it tastes bad, we just won’t eat it.

[@harirao12345]

Awesome and detailed! Especially liked your explanation of different types of milk. Thank you!

[@sandriagutierrez2605]

I have recently discovered this method as well. Only I use a thermal cooker/hay box. Works for me. 30 years making it, wish I’d discovered it way back then! Good video

[@doctorfeline9911]

your attention to detail is nothing short of phenomenal. . I got all the tips of an expert minus the bore that comes with scouring several KZbin videos in order to get the education you need b/4 embarking on your endeavor. Frieda this is the best!! thumbs way way up👍👍👍

[@milanharry7931]

Sorry to be offtopic but does someone know a trick to log back into an instagram account?? I was stupid lost my login password. I appreciate any tips you can give me!

[@malikgordon9212]

@Milan Harry instablaster ;)

[@milanharry7931]

@Malik Gordon thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site on google and I'm trying it out atm. Takes a while so I will reply here later with my results.

[@milanharry7931]

@Malik Gordon It did the trick and I now got access to my account again. Im so happy! Thanks so much you saved my ass :D

[@malikgordon9212]

@Milan Harry happy to help xD

[@podiodoc]

The 24 hours setting is a great setting to use. It makes a GREAT creamy yogurt and by using the 24 hours setting will remove the lactose and can be eaten if you are lactose intolerant

[@michemash8860]

Is everything else the same & are you using the “cold start” method, just with a longer heat period? Thank you in advance! 💗

[@FriedaFranchina]

​@@michemash8860 She is mentioning using regular pasteurized milk and the traditional boil method of making yogurt. Incubating yogurt for 16-24 hours results in a lactose free, but very tangy yogurt. You can achieve mild tasting yogurt using lactose free milk and my Cold Start method. 🙂

[@jlastname2189]

@@FriedaFranchina Will the final result be lactose free? I'm very sensitive to it; I can't digest lactose-free milk or yogurt from the stores. I've been making 24-hour yogurt using regular pasteurized milk in my IP, but I want to try your method for its ease and quick cleanup.

[@FriedaFranchina]

​@@jlastname2189​@jlastname2189 When you use lactose free milk, you'll have a lactose free yogurt. Lactose free milks have the enzyme lactase added. If you are sensitive to lactose free milks, you would still be sensitive to the yogurt. The method you are using to make lactose free yogurt with 16-24 hours incubation is working for you, so I'd stay with that method. 🙂

[@FriedaFranchina]

​@@jlastname2189​@jlastname2189 When you use lactose free milk, you'll have a lactose free yogurt. Lactose free milks have the enzyme lactase added. If you are sensitive to lactose free milks, you would still be sensitive to the yogurt. The method you are using to make lactose free yogurt with 16-24 hours incubation is working for you, so I'd stay with that method. 🙂

[@evanvorous]

Thanks for this video. mom and I love plain yogurt then add fresh fruit with a little honey or better yet pure maple syrup.. Yummm

[@kellietrudel8222]

What a generous person you are to share your knowledge! Going to try this today!

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are welcome! Let me know how it turns out for you. 😊

[@kellietrudel8222]

Frieda Loves Bread turned out lovely! Chilled overnight then strained. Made a blackberry blueberry compote for it and all my yogurt needed for sweetness was a tablespoon of raw local honey. We had stopped eating yogurt at my home due to concerns regarding how much sugar is added so I’m very pleased to put yogurt back on my menu. Thanks so much for sharing yogurt making!

[@jasminebaker5702]

You have no idea how much this has helped me. I used the fair life whole milk, sweetened condensed milk can, and Kroger Greek yogurt protein yogurt to make a batch and oh my goodness. It's the thickest creamiest yogurt I've ever had. So so filling and doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Let it cook overnight in my IP, forgot about it till late the next morning, and stick it in the fridge for several more hours before messing with it. I wish I could send pictures of my final product. It's just so good!

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are most welcome! It truly is the easiest recipe to make and I'm thrilled that you love it. Enjoy! 😋

[@scrane5500]

Was given an instant pot for Christmas so will definitely try this but plant-based as I have a family history of cancer and need to avoid all the estrogen in dairy--thanks for posting

[@jmsva6914]

Just got my first batch going. It was so easy that I kept going to my computer to watch the video to make sure that was all I had to do. I did learn one thing though. I need to buy another Instant Pot because my Duo 60 is now being used for a long period. Will watch your store for an 8 qt to come on sale. Thank you for doing all the research. I am a diabetic and now will be able to have a desert.

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are most welcome! It is easy to make, and you can use milk that is lower in sugar, which is perfect for you. You can incubate your yogurt overnight, wake up, and slowly pour your yogurt into another container (no stirring) to chill in the fridge. This will free up your pot for the day. The other options are to purchase another insert or another Instant Pot. Enjoy!🙂

[@oldrvr]

@@FriedaFranchinaI wanted to add the bliss vanilla creamer to my fairlife milk, but I accidentally bought the Bliss vanilla flavored “almond” creamer. I’m afraid to add it. Would it still work and allow the cultures to work?

[@FriedaFranchina]

​@@oldrvr Hello - the cultures feed off the lactose in dairy milk. You have purchased a non dairy milk that is mostly water... if you add it to your Fairlife milk, you'll still get yogurt, but it'll be thinner. You can strain it for a thicker yogurt. 🙂

[@abiggs66]

I made yogurt today as per your instructions. It turned out perfect. Thank you 😁

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are most welcome. Thanks for watching & enjoy your yogurt!😋

[@blueeyes2481]

I am new to yogurt making and have used the boil method. My yogurt came out to runny. Watching your video now tells me why. I will be trying this method. Thank you so much for explaining how it works. Will you be doing other videos, I noticed you haven't done any in a while?

[@pattijesinoski1958]

Your science analogies along with how to make yogurt makes a lot of sense. Can you please do one video with making coconut yogurt?

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you! Non dairy yogurt will be my next venture. Stay tuned!🙂

[@PrincessPea1]

Thank you for this discussion of cold start. I will add this method to my small but determined arsenal of kitchen skills. What is the meaning of Fage? It is one of the major dairy brands in Greece. It manufactures dairy products including milk, yogurt and ice cream. The word φάγε *(pronounced "fa-yeh")* is both the singular imperative verb meaning 'Eat!'

[@jvjones124]

I loved your video! You explained all the options of yogurt making.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you & thanks for watching!🙂

[@mongoosefarmmaui7592]

Great info! I like stuff explained and you nailed it.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you!🙂

[@SmileySunrise]

Thank you so much for sharing!! This was the first time I made yogurt in my Instant Pot and I must say it was the best yogurt I've enjoyed! I used the Fairlife whole milk and sweetened condensed milk. I didn't use the whole can as I thought it may be too sweet, but it wouldn't have been just fine. The next time, I will use the whole can. I used Fage plain as my starter. After it cooked and I cooled it overnight in the fridge, I ended up the next day straining the yogurt in a tea towel,, and the texture after that was so thick and creamy. It was like a dessert. I bought 2% Fairlife today and I'm going to try that tonight. It may not be as thick and creamy as using the whole milk, but I'm sure it will still be yummers! Thank you again for sharing,, and for going into detail about each step! :-)

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are most welcome! I think you will still like the yogurt from the 2% milk . Enjoy!

[@oldrvr]

Love your tutorial! It has everything we need to know. I just put my third batch in the instant pot! They have all turned out great! Thanks for all the info!

[@SSaaNNddYY77]

Excellent tutorial and information! Thank you so much! I just made this on Thursday for the first time, and I'll never buy yogurt again! I used Fairlife milk, Bliss vanilla creamer and plain Fage yogurt and my results are perfect! I ate it with fresh blueberries... Can't wait to make it again!

[@wandalunski6374]

I am very late to the party😊 ! I hope this message finds you well. Could you tell me how much of the natural bliss creamer you added to your yogurt? Thanks, Wanda from Mississippi

[@SSaaNNddYY77]

​@wandalunski6374 i buy the large 32 oz of Sweet Cream flavored Bliss... using 16 oz or half the container. Ive also used the entire 32oz. Just gave it a richer taste but more calories lol! Good luck! Its delicious!

[@wandalunski6374]

Thank you for your reply!

[@JohnDoe-gv9jv]

I am really impressed with how well you teach in this video. Great job and thank you, from a Texas man that is going to make your yogurt. Thanks.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching! I'm glad you found this video helpful. Enjoy your yogurt!🙂

[@LucynMommy]

I just started my first ever batch of yogurt and it is this recipe. I can't wait to try it!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Wonderful! You'll have to update us and let me know how it turned out for you. 🙂

[@ourfunnyfamilySD]

I made this yogurt yesterday, and it turned out amazing!! Thank you 🎉 perfect amount of sweetness in my opinion

[@FriedaFranchina]

Hooray! I'm so glad you are enjoying your homemade yogurt! Thank you for watching & leaving your kind comment. 🙂

[@sbeckas]

Your reply comments are just as kind and informative as your video❣️

[@FriedaFranchina]

Awww....thank you! It's comments like yours that help keep me going. :-)

[@kimee757]

Empowered Cooks sent me here 😊 I started making my own yogurt 1 ago when I purchased my instant pot. Fairlife milk is what I use along with the sweetened condensed milk & I add vanilla extra as well. I use the 8 hr time & it's perfect! It's thick & if I want it a little thinner, I give it a few stirs with the spoon. I've used half vanilla & half coconut starter & added coconut extract to the mixture...soooo good!! I'll never buy store bought yogurt again. I'm glad to see the light blue Fairlife Milk bottle because I wanted to try using it, however, I wasn't sure. Awesome video!!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you so much for watching and for leaving such a great review! Welcome to the homemade yogurt club. Enjoy!🙂

[@bbhurst65]

Great tutorial! I don't know if any other earlier commenters mentioned using the Instant Pot Ultra Mini 3 qt--it's what my husband and I use (small model for "empty nesters"). On that model, the Yogurt setting doesn't have a "Medium" or "Normal" temp setting for incubation. It has "Custom" temp selection which I set for 110 degrees Fahrenheit. (Or, was is a preset temp in the Yogurt function? Sorry, I cannot recall--pretty sure I had to decide the temperature.) We like tangy yogurt, so I set the timer for 10 hours. Eight seems to be what most people use, but 10 has worked well for us with Fairlife milk (no sweetener). It makes a lot of yogurt for us, but it doesn't last long (we eat it in a blink).

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching! You are right, the newer 3qt models do not have a yogurt setting, but do have a Custom setting where you can assign a temperature. In the case of making yogurt, any temp in the 100°F-110°F will work. Thank you for sharing this important information. 🙂

[@madusonkeeper]

This recipe is great keep it in my playlist to rewatch as needed. Used several times!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching! 🙂

[@palikariatl]

A fantastic summertime snack: fresh, plain yogurt with FRESH sliced figs, honey and walnuts! YUM!

[@enggoogoo1760]

Using ultra-pasteurized milk is such a smart idea, Frieda! I stopped making yogurt because of all the hassle of boiling, cooling, measuring temperature, etc. You're bring the joy of yogurt-making back to my life! Thank you!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Eng Goo Goo - you are most welcome! I'm glad you are enjoying making yogurt again!😊

[@enggoogoo1760]

Success!!! Truly piece of cake! Thank you again, Frieda! I see that you love bread. Me, too! Check out "thefreshloaf.com" if you don't already know about it. If you do, I'll see you there!

[@enggoogoo1760]

Love, love, love it, Freida! 👍👍👍I've made super tart yogurt (19 hours) with Fairlife whole, 2%, and skim milk respectively. Love them all! I'm eating a gallon of yogurt in 2 days, just to make up for the time I didn't have home-made yogurt! Simply sweetened it with lots of sugar (2 TBSP per cup). Like you said, it's like dessert! Thank you, thank you!!!💋💋💋

[@kberken]

You can also add your UP milk and starter to pint jars and then you don't have to transfer the yogurt when it's done or clean your pot. I do this for regular boil method by steaming the milk in covered (metal lids and rings) jars for one minute, cool to 105, add starter and set for 10 hours. But with UP milk, just add the starter cover the jars, incubate for 8 to 10 hours. Or longer if you want it more tangy.

[@cathywade8912]

Best demonstration I have on yogurt. Thank you

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching🙂

[@velvetpaws999]

Wow, really good! Bravo! Spoken like a pro! That was instructive and enjoyable all at once! I am off to getting that yogurt strainer and then make a badge! Thanks for sharing! I was thinking about making yogurt with no cows milk, but using oat milk instead. Oak milk is naturally a little thick, and it has also a natural sweetness to it. Have you ever experimented with oat milk? I'd love to read your thoughts on this option! Thanks once more!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thanks for watching! You can use this method with Ripple pea milk, Silk Blend, or boxed soy milk (soy & water only), with Silk non dairy yogurt as your starter & at least 12-15 hours incubation. Oat milk & other plant based milks need a thickener & the boil method to activate the thickener. Even though oat milk is thick, it won't "set" like a traditional yogurt without a thickener (gelatin, agar, tapioca starch, etc).🙂

[@GinaLWolf]

Actual yogurt making instructions start at 8:20

[@DanScottChannel]

Thanks, but also the "2 keys" to making a successful (cold start) yogurt, which info precede this timeline, are invaluable. I've thrown away several batches of yogurt using my instant pot, and the reason for my failure was due to not knowing this info.

[@FriedaFranchina]

@@DanScottChannel Thank you for your comment. People have asked me so many questions about this method and my goal was to cover the most important.🙂

[@helfulvids]

Thank you! I almost gave up and wondering when the actual instructions would start.

[@learnjcbskidsterchickensga7594]

Playback speed increase might be wiser. Thanks for detailed instruction !

[@cookingwithnimoh]

Thanks

[@sowmyas2315]

Very informative video. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise. I'm so inspired by your video. I rarely comment on videos and almost never subscribe but this is the best yogurt making video ever. Please keep sharing and God bless.

[@victorialove9104]

thank you for this. guess I have to get an instant pot. btw, your hair is so beautiful.

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are most welcome. You'll enjoy having an Instant Pot. 😊

[@azbz1z2z75]

Thank you for this. so many people go through so many gyrations to make yogurt. I used my instant pot and it worked but was ultra thin so I strained it and it turned out perfect. But your method is the best.

[@lorrainemartinez6505]

I love your video. I have been looking into making homemade yogurts. I find yours more simple. Thank u

[@lianeharty1088]

Awesome Video. Very well done can't wait to try it. Just have to try and find the milk. In British Columbia, Canada

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you! You can find some milk & starter suggestions for Canada on my Cold Start yogurt article. The milk must be UHT (ultra high temp). Natrel Lactose free, Lactania, TruTaste are some options to try. Good luck! :-)

[@janh5199]

I just made yogurt for the first time. It came out slightly grainy or lumpy, like cottage cheese that someone had taken a hand blender to. However, it tasted creamy and delicious. I think maybe I didn’t cool it enough before putting the starter in. I topped it with a good squirt of honey and some crushed pecans I had leftover from another recipe. It was so yummy.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Congrats on making your first yogurt! Lumpy yogurt can be due to using too much starter. Grainy (smaller bits) can be due to the milk solids that stick on the bottom of the pan and get stirred into the yogurt. You can pour your warm yogurt into another container, leaving the stuck on yogurt on the insert. Or, you can use the ice cube tip in this article. You will soon be tweaking your yogurt to get the desired taste and texture. Enjoy! 🙂 www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/06/cold-start-yogurt-faq.html

[@janh5199]

@@FriedaFranchina Thank you for the response. Based on your article I now think I added too much starter. It was still delicious, so much better than store bought. I plan to try the cold start method next.

[@jmsva6914]

I made it and it is so good. My son tasted it and thus one quart less. Mine is almost gone so have to make a trip to the supermarket!! Thank you for the video showing me how to make it.

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are most welcome! I'm glad you are enjoying your yogurt!🙂

[@lauraceja662]

I just did this and welp my yogurt is in the fridge!! Thanks such an easy recipe

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are most welcome! Thanks for watching & enjoy your yummy yogurt!😋

[@cindymaddux3507]

I made some this past weekend and it came out fantastic! I did add the can of SCM and it's truly delicious just like that BUT I had some Lemonade flavored packets that you add to water (like Crystal Light) and I added a little more than 1/2 a packet to a 4oz jar that I portioned out the yogurt in and mixed it up, then I stuck it in the freezer for about 10 minutes. Holy Cow! It tastes like a lemon ice box pie without the crust...tart from the lemonade flavoring and slightly sweet from the SCM. I'll be trying other flavors once I can get past how amazing the lemon flavor is.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Cindy - thanks for taking the time to share your wonderful success with this Cold Start method! Your suggestion for adding lemon drink mix powder is a great and easy way to incorporate flavor into your yogurt! I have many flavoring options on my IP Yogurt for Newbies Guide that may inspire you. Have fun! www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/07/instant-pot-dairy-yogurt-for-newbies.html#flavor

[@brandimills585]

Thanks so much for sharing that idea! That sounds delicious!

[@jackiewright9972]

My first batch of yoghurt went stringy, and after posting questions on social media, no one could explain why or even understood the description of what I meant. Thankyou for the explanation, I’m ready to have another go a cold start yoghurt making

[@FriedaFranchina]

Did you use sweetened condensed milk? Some stire brands of SCM have made yogurt with a gluey, stringy like texture. Eagle or Carnation brands have not experienced this problem.🙂

[@jackiewright9972]

I didn’t use any sweeteners, I think I used the wrong milk. Ultra pasteurised seems to be difficult to find in the uk. Do I need to use the broil method?

[@FriedaFranchina]

@@jackiewright9972 - you can use UHT(ultra high temp) or shelf stable boxed milk with the Cold Start yogurt method. If you don't have access to these milks, you'll have to use the traditional boil method. You can find my video here or over at my site. 🙂 www.friedalovesbread.com/2016/07/no-powdered-milk-pressure-cook-greek.html

[@khanbibi]

I love horizon because it tastes a lot fresher then the rest of the other milks

[@jackiewright9972]

Great I’ve bought Uht, in the pot now 10pm ready for chilling at 6am, I’ll let you know the results. I loved your video, so informative and clear. Thankyou

[@kathywilkins7271]

I'm going to try it in jars inside the pot - so it stays very thick. Thank you for this video!

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are welcome! Making it in jars is a good idea if you are not straining. Here are some additional tips for incubating in jars, which you'll find helpful. 🙂 www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/06/cold-start-yogurt-faq.html

[@kathywilkins7271]

@@FriedaFranchina It worked perfectly - it's the thickest yogurt I've ever made! The best part is all you have to do when it's finished is refrigerate. I put a cup of water in the pot and sat the jars on the little rack.

[@sweet-n-sassy5152]

Thank you so much for this video. It was very detailed, I learned so much!

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are most welcome - thanks for watching!🙂

[@amyg6752]

I just made my first batch of yogurt and I'm so proud of myself. I used the Crockpot Express, which works the same, and it looks great so far! Thank you for your video. Maybe I will try to sweeten it next time.

[@FriedaFranchina]

That's great to hear that my recipe worked well for your model. Thanks for sharing & enjoy your yogurt!🙂

[@DeeDee-tm4fe]

Use honey as a sweetener

[@sheilam1918]

Thank you for explaining. I couldn’t believe my first batch (made before I saw your video) but it came out great fortunately

[@learnjcbskidsterchickensga7594]

You hit on many important parts thank you. I used to use coffee filters for less messy cat food feeding...but the cheap ones are bleached.

[@artbarn2624]

This tastes like melted ice cream! I am in Heaven! I wasn’t sure I’d want to be bothered to make yogurt in my new Instant Pot until I saw your Cold Start Method video, which is fabulous. You're an excellent teacher. I shopped for ingredients the next day. Alas, even low-carb recipes are a problem for me if I won’t stop eating them, lol. Probably for the best, as my little dogs eat yogurt daily and making it low-fat is better for them. For my second batch I tried the 2% Fairlife with 1/3 cup of powdered milk, as you recommend, and it came out perfectly. Thank you so much for all your research and for sharing it. By the way, your hair is gorgeous!

[@jomeyerdesign]

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you Frieda...I have made so many batches of yogurt both the boil method and Instant Pot but this Cold Start method is so dependable. The first time I followed your directions exactly! I wasn’t sure I could leave out the condensed milk. But next batch I did, and the results were beautiful as well.

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are most welcome! I'm glad you are enjoying this revolutionary method of making yogurt. 😋

[@maryannbergeron9531]

Love your presentation as it is so clear and easy to understand. Thank you so much.

[@jcj6501]

Thank you for your wonderful presentation. Just got an instant pot so, will be busy with my yogurt.

[@patcomly9886]

Instant pot makes perfect hard boiled eggs, just saying. And 4 hour bone broth. Love it!

[@learnjcbskidsterchickensga7594]

I enjoyed your video the most I studied videos two weeks. I use 24 hour setting to reduce lactose and get more probiotics. Overnight straining makes it nice and thick....I only add raw honey and it reminds me of my favorite...Noosa. I use frozen whey for starter....for dog food....and for plants.... I use sanitized towels or handkerchiefs....yogurt strainer was a waste as colanders I have do the same thing... I read to avoid pectin and bifuda in first yogurt starter purchase. Not sure why!.

[@patriciawolfenden3904]

I thought if you freeze anything cream, that the cream would split in the freezer? Please advise, thank you.

[@sylviakleppinger5345]

I was excited to make yogurt with Fairlife and condensed milk then abruptly 😮stopped…I needed to purchase an Instant Pot. Wish you made a video on how to make yogurt on the stovetop.

[@bpp325]

This is an excellent presentation. Thank you.👍👍

[@haroldpatrick7772]

Thank you Frieda! You explain the technical parts so that I now understand HOW yogurt AND milk work. I now understand how to allow milk to produce yogurt. Best explanation I have ever heard! I do have a question about additives in home made yogurt... can you add vanilla extract to it or will the alcohol (40%) kill the bacteria? (my instantpot does NOT have the yogurt feature so I have to use the 'other' method and I was thinking that the temp. of the milk might allow the alcohol in the vanilla to evaporate. Your thoughts?

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching - I'm glad you found my video helpful in understanding how to make yogurt, I prefer to add pure vanilla extract to my finished & chilled yogurt. It is theorized that the alcohol *may* interfere with the culturing process. I have seen both failures & successes when vanilla extract has been added to the milk prior to incubation. For your first time, and also because of the challenges of maintaining the incubation temp of using a cooker without a yogurt setting, I'd use a vanilla flavored creamer added to the milk -or- make it with milk & starter only. 🙂

[@humeyrabue]

Thank you for explaining everything so clearly. Would I get the same result if I use individual mason jars in the instant pot?

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching! I'm glad you found my video helpful. If you have not made yogurt yet, I recommend making it directly in the pot for your first time. If it's thick enough for you without straining, you can use jars for your next batch. You'll need to dry fit your jars and if you stack them, you'll need to add an additional two hours to your incubation time. You can find more info here. 🙂 www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/06/cold-start-yogurt-faq.html

[@humeyrabue]

@@FriedaFranchina Awesome! Thank you for the detailed response. I can't wait to try it out. :)

[@Autiger6871]

I bought a Instant pot pro crisp 8 qt. I discovered it doesn’t have a yogurt button. I used the Sous Vide function and set the temperature to 110 for 8 hours. It worked. It did take a long time before it got to 110 deg. Not sure why. If you know of a better faster way please comment. I called Instant pot company but they were of no help.

[@FriedaFranchina]

8 cups of cold milk should take about 40-45 minutes to get up to 100°-110°F. If you are using a gallon of cold milk, it can take longer to reach incubation temp. As long as you are reaching incubation temp in less than two hours, you are fine. Heating milk too hot, too quickly can make yogurt grainy or gritty, so it's best to let your Instant Pot do the warming up on sous vide or yogurt settings. 🙂

[@shrutikaacharya8797]

How to make in new duo crisp which doesnt have yogurt settings

[@dianas1101]

Very good video! Informative! Nice to have it explained in detail.

[@stephaniemitchell838]

My Instant Pot is older and does not have a yogurt setting. Can you help with the instructions?

[@FriedaFranchina]

Sure! If you look under the video description, there's a link that will take you to my printable Cold Start yogurt recipe. Look for No Yogurt Button in the recipe directions. 🙂

[@lindastroud2364]

Thank you for the video. If you close the venting valve, won’t it build up pressure?

[@FriedaFranchina]

No. The venting valve stays open the entire time, so there is no pressure build-up. 🙂

[@thegnoles]

I don’t know what I did wrong but I used a half gallon of organic ultrapasturized whole milk and 2T of Strauss Organic Whole Milk Yogurt, put the instant pot yogurt setting on “normal” for 10 hours and it is still very much a liquid. I let it go for another 3 hours but still liquid, not even as thick as heavy cream.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Sorry this happened to you. You would need to discard it at this point. Organic milks can take much longer to set, or culture, as much as 12 hours or longer. It can be the temp of the IP or your starter. You can get one on one help over at the Instant Pot Yogurt 101 group.

[@Richard-dh8ny]

Hi Frieda, is it essential to use an ultra filtered ultra pasteurized milk? I want to be safe, however I prefer eating less processed foods. Thanks!

[@FriedaFranchina]

The only requirement for this method is to use ultra pasteurized, UHT -or- shelf stable milks (boxed, powdered or canned). These milks will work for my Cold Start yogurt method; however, they will not be as thick as when using a milk that is both ultra pasteurized & ultra filtered, due to its higher protein. You can thicken ultra pasteurized milks by straining your chilled yogurt, or by adding instant powdered milk or a couple of protein drinks to the milk prior to incubation. 🙂

[@TheHighlanderGirl]

Gorgeous hair … oh, and thank you for sharing your yogurt methodology!

[@heathersteuck7450]

Thank you, I love what I learned from you in this video. Can I use this method to make cottage cheese as well?

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching! Cottage cheese is a totally different method. You don't need an Instant Pot - you can do it on your stove top. It does take a lot of milk to make a small amount of cottage cheese. 🙂 food52.com/recipes/8222-creamy-homemade-cottage-cheese

[@hildatorres1808]

do you do coconut yogurt if so can I get the recipe? Thank you

[@FriedaFranchina]

Coconut yogurt and other plant based milks are made differently, as they require a thickening agent and the boil method. You can find a great coconut yogurt recipe in my Instant Pot Yogurt 101 group. 🙂

[@Alhael3]

Hi,I love this video. You are so calm and nice.Good recipe. Please tell me,can I make kefir in IP,using kefir as a starter? Thank you.

[@FriedaFranchina]

sophie foxman - thank you! Kefir uses a different strain to culture and only needs room temperature. Yogurt cutures at a higher temp, around 100°-110°F, so using the Instant Pot is not recommended for culturing kefir.😊

[@Alhael3]

Thank you very much. This is what I’m doing and then make cottage cheese (oven method). Thank you again. Can I make cottage cheese (same method) from this yogurt?

[@FriedaFranchina]

sophie foxman - you can make cottage cheese with your Instant Pot, but not with this method. If you search Google for "pressure cook cottage cheese," you will find 3 or 4 sites with some recipe suggestions. 😊

[@Alhael3]

Frieda Loves Bread Thank you. One of my triplets granddaughter is gluten free. She also can’t have milk and cheese. Can I make yogurt from almond milk with substitute yogurt starter in IP?Thank you very much.I really appreciate your attention.

[@FriedaFranchina]

sophie foxman- homemade almond milk works better than store bought and you will need to add a thickener (gelatin, agar, tapioca starch, etc). You can use a non dairy yogurt or a powdered yogurt starter. Cutures for Health website has some helpful information. 😊

[@mgb426]

Hi! I just came across your video as I was searching on how to make yogurt and this video is amazing, so much good information! I bought the same Fairlife 3.25 milk in red bottle. I should preface that I am from Canada and found it in my grocery store & was so excited! I rewatched your video and noticed you mentioned ultra pasteurized.. I looked at my bottle and it only says ultrafiltered... Does it say ultra pasteurized on the bottle? I am wondering if the bottles they sell here in Canada are not ultra pasteurized? I will still make the yogurt tonight, but I don't want to get my hopes up if this missing. Step of the milk process from the company is not included in the ones that they sell in Canada. So I'm just wondering if anyone or yourself can tell me if it actually says ultra pasteurized on the bottle. Thank you so much and I look forward to your reply! Again. Love your video and I will be using this recipe.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching! I'm excited that you are learning so much and asking a great question. Fairlife milk IS ultra pasteurized. They used to list it on their carton, but omitted it in their newer packaging. I even emailed Fairlife and did get the affirmation that their milks are ultra pasteurized. Go ahead and get started. You'll be thrilled with your results. 🙂 If you have any more questions, you may want to visit my FAQ page: www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/06/cold-start-yogurt-faq.html

[@mgb426]

@@FriedaFranchina thank you SO MUCH for your reply! This is fantastic news! Now I feel more confident. My yogurt is still in the fermentation process but it should be done shortly, I can't wait to see how it turned out! Again, thank you for the prompt reply and video. 🥰😄

[@GailChambers]

what a great video tutorial

[@cindybradley3543]

Hi Frieda, I have a new question for you. Because I love the taste of coconut, do you know what would happen if I was to add a can of Savoy Coconut Cream to this recipe? And could I use Oui Coconut yogurt as my starter?

[@FriedaFranchina]

I'm glad you asked... it's a good question! Non dairy milks and creams do not thicken yogurt in the same way as dairy milks & creams/creamers do. As a result, adding them to dairy milks will make a slightly thinner yogurt, depending on how much you add. Non dairy yogurt can be used as starters; however, coconut yogurt has proved to be unreliable as a starter. I like to add Real Coconut syrup (found in the coffee aisle of the grocery store) ....and toasted coconut to my finished and chilled yogurt for a coconut flavor. Torani or DaVinci flavored coffee syrups are also good to use post incubation/chilling. 🙂

[@cindybradley3543]

@@FriedaFranchina Thanks so much for the quick reply and your informative information. I'll be trying Real Coconut Syrup and let you know how it turns out. Thanks again, Freida.

[@ibew1951]

Thank u for the wonderful video helping understand so much more about yougart. I made it for 1st time & it came out amazing !! If I was to add a can of coconut milk in place of condensed milk, do u know how it would turn out ? Thank you!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching! I'm thrilled that you are enjoying your yogurt. 🙂 A can of coconut is watery & will thin your yogurt. You can put the can in the fridge and drain the excess, OR you can use a small can of sweetened condensed coconut milk, which should give you similar results with a very slight flavor of coconut.

[@byink1151]

Thank you so much! I am getting prepared to start my first batch! 😊

[@lorisilva10784]

How sweet does this turn out? We like vanilla yogurt. Any comparison?

[@FriedaFranchina]

If you use a full can of sweetened condensed milk, it'll be sweet like store bought yogurt. Adding a 16oz bottle of dairy creamer will be slightly less sweet, especially if added to a filtered milk like Fairlife, which has 50% less sugar. You'll want to experiment with different amounts or make it unsweetened & add your own sugar, honey, maple syrup or fruit to your chilled yogurt to taste. 🙂

[@lorisilva10784]

@@FriedaFranchina Thank you!!! I'll give it a try!

[@marcus09di]

awesome tutorial. Thank you !

[@marisagallegos1738]

I’m confused, I thought we couldn’t do the cold start method unless the milk is unltra-pasturized. I cannot find where Fairlife says ultra-pasteurized. How did you get that result with a cold start method if the Fairlife is not ultra-pasteurized? Or how did you know Fairlife is ultra-pasteurized?

[@FriedaFranchina]

You are correct that you must use only ultra pasteurized milks or shelf stable milks with my Cold Start yogurt method. Fairlife milk is ultra pasteurized. It doesn't state it on the label. I reached out to the company, who replied and confirmed that their milks are ultra pasteurized. You can view the email in my Cold Start Yogurt FAQ article. 🙂 www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/06/cold-start-yogurt-faq.html

[@marisagallegos1738]

@@FriedaFranchina thank you for doing that, I appreciate it. Thank you for responding and clarifying my concern. Wonderful video!!!

[@fleurmp3820]

This is an amazing video. Thanks for sharing. I am off to the supermarket in Australia, to find an equivalent milk!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Fleur MP - thanks for watching! Let me know what milk you find and how it turns out for you!😊

[@marjoriepark1198]

Quick question . Will it work to use dry milk reconstituted with the cold start method? Truthfully, I did with probiotic capsules,. Tastes great and is thick. But not sure if it is a safe technique. Also incubated 12 hr. Thanks for a clear and concise video.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Yes. Dry instant milk powder is shelf stable and one of tnr several milks that I recommend in my Cold Start yogurt article. 🙂

[@ing3666]

If you have milk about to expire, can you use it for the long method?

[@FriedaFranchina]

The expiration date is most likely the Sell By date, the date that stores need to have the milk off the shelves. Ultra pasteurized or UHT milks must be used with this method & often have Sell By dates that are much longer than two weeks. Milk should be good for at least 4-5 days beyond the date on the carton. Milk should smell & taste fresh before using it to make yogurt. If it smells or tastes old or "off," do not use it to make yogurt. Fresh milk used to make yogurt will last for at least 2-3 weeks, even past the Sell By date. 🙂

[@ing3666]

@@FriedaFranchina Thank you. If you know your milk is going to be “sour” in a couple of days, is it safe to use it to make yogurt via the long method?

[@FriedaFranchina]

@@ing3666 Yes - use it for yogurt before it becomes sour. 🙂

[@kimberlyschwartz3591]

This is an awesome video--- SUPER HELPFUL Have you tried to do the Cold Start method with containers within the insert? I am trying to do a NF yogurt option that doesn't have to be transferred into smaller containers- I am trying to not have broken/runny yogurt.

[@FriedaFranchina]

Yes, you can make your yogurt in individual jars, if you are certain you will not be straining your yogurt. Mix your milk & starter, and pour it into your jars. Place jars into your inner pot. No trivet is needed and adding an inch of water to the inner pot is optional. Some people feel that this helps maintain the overall temps better. No lids are needed. A single layer of jars works better than stacking 2 layers of shorter jars, as the top layer doesn't set in 8 hours; however, you can add another hour or two to your incubation time to allow the top layer of jars to set. Enjoy!🙂

[@czgreenwald4753]

Has anyone used Fairlife Chocolate milk to make yogurt. I'm thinking the chocolate milk with the Natural bliss creamer......?

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thanks for watching & asking a great question!Yes...many have tried and been unsuccessful. The stabilizers and thickeners in the flavored milks interfere with the culturing process, resulting in thin set yogurt. Others try incubating longer, only to find the tangy-sweet taste off-putting. You can strain the yogurt, but only if it isn't super thin. Your best bet is to make plain yogurt, then after chilling, add instant chocolate pudding mix, drink mix powder (Nestle, Ovaltine, etc) or chocolate syrup. 🙂

[@smenna47]

I have made your cold start yogurt several time and love it. I’d like to know if the finished product is considered probiotic?

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you! I'm glad you are enjoying your homemade yogurt. Yes, your homemade yogurt contains probiotics, the same live & active bacteria that were present in your yogurt starter. 🙂

[@theketovillagee]

I just made this today! Minus the condensed milk ❤️

[@theketovillagee]

OH MY GAWD! It worked and is ahhhhhhazing

[@palikariatl]

BRAVO! Yogurt should not be sweet!

[@bluhoteyes]

Frieda when you add the chocolate pudding is it instant ?

[@FriedaFranchina]

Yes. One small pkg of instant pudding mix added to the chilled batch of yogurt. 🙂

[@nancyeaguiar]

Can you make Greek yogurt with these instructions? Thank you for the video!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Thank you for watching! Greek yogurt is strained yogurt that is thick and high in protein. When using these ingredients in the video, the consistency is between Greek & traditional yogurt. You can use any plain or vanilla yogurt as your starter. Your homemade yogurt will mimic the tang & texture of your starter. 🙂

[@Richard-dh8ny]

Hi Frieda, if you get a moment to reply I have a quick question. I'm curious to know if using a little extra starter is ok or potentially a problem for getting the yogurt to set up properly?

[@FriedaFranchina]

It's a great question. Yes, using too much starter can make your yogurt thin, lumpy or bitter. You can freeze the rest of the yogurt in 2T portions to use as future starters. You can find more info in my Yogurt Guide for Newbies. 🙂 www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/07/instant-pot-dairy-yogurt-for-newbies.html?m=1#starter

[@WanderingNature]

Great video

[@moniquem783]

What about powdered milk?

[@FriedaFranchina]

Powdered milk is shelf stable and can be used with this method. 🙂

[@dianagoetsch6953]

I made th is yougurt in my instapot on the yougurt setting..it went straight to the 8 hour setting and began to count the minutes up to 8 hours. When I opened the lid it was very thick but it had a lot of whey in it already. I poured it slowly into the bowl and let it sit over night and am draining it now as it had a lot of whey sitting on the top. THe temp said normal for the yougert and it didn't over heat it I didnt test the milk temp as I didnt have thermometer like that. DId I do some thing wrong? I also used two tablespoons of Fage greek yougurt instead of one!

[@FriedaFranchina]

Hello - thank you for reaching out to me about my Cold Start Yogurt recipe. Thank you for including as much information for a more complete diagnosis. I don't believe you did anything wrong. You will want to double check to make sure your Yogurt setting is on "Medium" or "High," depending on your model. I'm assuming since it went straight to the 8 hour count-up, that it was on the correct model. Also, your normal yogurt setting temp should be in the 100-110 degreed temp range. The "Low" or "Less" setting is for fermenting rice or proofing yeasted bread dough. Yogurt that has a lot of whey can be contributed to a few factors. First, using more than 1 Tablespoon of yogurt for every 8 cups of milk can lead to excess whey or thin set yogurt. Secondly, If you used a low fat or skim milk (make sure it it UHT or Ultra Pasteurized!) will create more whey and a thinner yogurt due to the percentage of water in the milk. I do have a Cold Start Yogurt FAQ page and a IP Yogurt 101 Facebook group that is helpful in creating your best yogurt. Enjoy! Frieda 😃

[@lovesweetpeas47]

I have just found your website,and like your cold intstant pot yogurt. I have just purchased a 3 quart instant pot, can I make your recipe in this pot, I hope its not to small. It has the yogurt setting on it. Your you tube video isexplaind so well and I have never made yogurt befoe. Thanks for this great information.

[@FriedaFranchina]

The 3 quart size is perfect for a half gallon of milk and the Cold Start yogurt recipe. 🙂

[@kimberlycooks25]

Second time making this recipe my kids love it!