• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

MJ and Hungryman

  • About
  • Blog
  • Feeding tips
  • Recipes
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Baby Led Weaning
  • Recipes
  • Feeding tips
  • Resources
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Baby Led Weaning
    • Recipes
    • Feeding tips
    • Resources
    • About
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    MJ & Hungryman » Baby/Kid-Friendly Recipes » Breakfast

    How to Freeze Yogurt

    By Min On March 19, 2023

    This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

    Share or Save It for Later!

    Jump to Recipe
    Frozen yogurt blocks in a freezer safe bag.

    Here are several methods to freeze yogurt so that you can always have it on hand to add to smoothies, baked goods, and sauces. Included are instructions on how to safely thaw it as well as plenty of recipes to help use it all up.

    Frozen yogurt blocks in a freezer safe bag.

    Benefits of Freezing Yogurt

    Fresh yogurt, when stored in the refrigerator at 40 degrees Fahrenheit, will last for 1-2 weeks in a closed container.

    It sounds like a good amount of time, and perhaps you purchased a large tub with the intention of adding to muffins, dips, and all kinds of recipes. Or you found a really great deal and stocked up.

    Or perhaps your child declared their undying love for yogurt. But the reality of it is you are now left with a bunch of lonesome yogurt that needs saving.

    The good news is you can absolutely freeze it! Here's how to reduce food waste and have yogurt on hand at all times.

    How to Freeze Yogurt

    Here are the different ways to freeze yogurt. The best method will depend on how you plan to use it and the freezer space available.

    It is best to freeze plain yogurt, but it will work with  flavored yogurt, too. If looking for a low sugar option, try this strawberry yogurt or vanilla yogurt.

    What's most important is to freeze before the expiration date. If you freeze pretty close to the date, plan on consuming immediately after thawing.

    In its original container

    You can freeze in the big tub, single serving containers, or even yogurt tubes, like Gogurts. I recommend placing in a freezer-safe bag as an extra layer of protection.

    Note that if the container has been opened, you will need to use any of the methods below.

    In a large container

    Transfer to an airtight container making sure NOT to fill all the way to the top. Just like with any liquid, yogurt will expand a bit once frozen.

    Place in the freezer for up to 2 months.

    In small containers or freezer tray

    Mango yogurt stored in three glass containers.
    Yogurt in ½ cup freezer tray.

    This is my favorite method as you can easily freeze in desired portion sizes.

    1. Transfer the yogurt to an ice cube tray or larger freezer tray, making sure again to leave some space at the top. My personal favorite is this ½ cup freezer tray. These mini glass jars are also great for storing single-serve portions of baby food and freezing.
    2. Freeze until frozen solid. I like to freeze overnight.
    3. Keep in the tray or if you want to save space in the freezer or need to use the tray for something else, pop out the frozen cubes and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
    4. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

    In a ziplock freezer bag or resusable bag

    1. Measure yogurt in desired amount.
    2. Add to the bag, lay flat, remove as much air as possible, then seal. Place in the freezer for up to 2 months.

    Texture Changes

    No matter which yogurt you choose to freeze, the texture will inevitably change once thawed.

    You will notice that the yogurt is more watery and has a grainy texture once defrosted. However, it will still taste good, although may taste more tart over time.

    Just give it a good stir to smooth out the texture before enjoying with a spoon. You can also quickly blend it up or add to various recipes (see below for ideas!)

    How to thaw yogurt

    Place in the refrigerator until it defrosts, may take up to 24 hours depending on the amount. If pressed for time, you can defrost on the counter at room temperature for up to two hours. Note that the yogurt won't be fully thawed but will soften up.

    One caveat - do NOT thaw yogurt made from raw milk on the counter.

    If adding to smoothies, there is no need to thaw.

    Ways to use Frozen Yogurt

    yogurt with an assortment of toppings in ice cube tray.

    As I mentioned earlier, while the yogurt will still be safe to use and nutritious, the texture will continue to change as it sits in the freezer.

    So if you're intending to enjoy with a spoon, then aim to do so within the first month of freezing.

    What I actually like to do is serve when it hasn’t completely thawed. My son loves it and says it tastes like ice cream. 

    But if you or your child is sensitive to texture, then use the frozen yogurt in cooking, baking, or smoothies. You won't notice the texture change. Here are some healthy and delicious recipes to try!

    Baked Goods

    Spinach muffin with a bite taken out.

    Add thawed yogurt to:

    • Spinach muffins
    • Yogurt Muffins
    • Carrot zucchini muffins
    • Carrot oatmeal muffins
    • Blackberry muffins
    • Pear muffins
    • Pineapple muffins
    • Vegetable muffins
    • Moist cornbread
    • Banana Walnut Cake
    • Birthday cake
    • Custard yogurt toast
    • Mini crustless Quiche
    • Protein pizza

    Pancakes

    five cooked beet pancakes with yogurt and peanut butter spread on top of two and a baby reaching for one pancake
    • Spinach pancakes
    • Beet pancakes
    • Butternut squash pancakes

    Smoothies

    Three different Greek yogurt smoothies in glass jars.
    • Greek yogurt smoothies
    • Banana watermelon smoothie
    • Peach Banana smoothie

    Frozen treats

    Toddler's hand holding a small peach yogurt popsicle.
    • Frozen peach yogurt

    Sauces, Dips, Pudding

    yogurt bean dip in a red bowl with toddler's hand dunking a sliced sweet potato

    Add thawed yogurt to:

    • Chocolate avocado pudding
    • Black bean dip
    • Tofu mayo
    • Instant pot chicken and noodles (stir it in at the end)
    • Beet pesto- use instead of ricotta
    • Butternut squash pasta sauce
    • Creamy broccoli pasta (stir it in at the end)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can you freeze Greek yogurt?

    Yes! The freezing process is the same for regular yogurt as it is for Greek yogurt. Be sure to label the date it's frozen or the best by date of 2 months out.

    Do the beneficial bacteria in yogurt survive freezing?

    It is required by The U.S Food and Drug Administration that all yogurt needs to contain milk and at least two strains of bacteria - Lactobacillus bulgarius and Streptococcus thermophilus.

    These live and active bacteria have so many health benefits, including improved digestive health and immunity. So do they survive in the freezer?

    Great news - they do! Research shows that the live bacteria goes into "dormant" mode until thawed. But note that

    How long can you freeze yogurt?

    It is best to consume within 1-2 months. The closer to the day it was frozen, the better for optimum flavor and texture. And yes, frozen yogurt can go bad. If you notice any mold, slimy film, or off-putting odors, discard right away.

    Once yogurt has been thawed, do not freeze again.

    Can you freeze yogurt for babies?

    Yes, it is safe to do so. Just be sure to properly store and serve within the two-month limit. They will get all the nutritional benefits that yogurt offers. Yogurt is a great source of protein, healthy fats, and probiotics.

    Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!

    Frozen yogurt blocks in a freezer safe bag.

    How to freeze yogurt

    Here are several methods to freeze yogurt so that you can always have it on hand to add to smoothies, baked goods, and sauces.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Cook Time: 0 minutes
    Servings: 8
    Author: Min | MJ and Hungryman

    Equipment

    • ½ Cup Freezer Tray
    • 6 cup freezer tray
    • Mini glass food storage jars

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups Yogurt

    Instructions

    • Transfer the yogurt to an ice cube tray or larger freezer tray, making sure to leave some space at the top.
    • Freeze until frozen solid, preferably overnight
    • Keep in the tray or if you want to save space in the freezer or need to use the tray for something else, pop out the frozen cubes and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
    • Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

    Notes

    To thaw: place in the refrigerator until it defrosts, may take up to 24 hours depending on the amount. If pressed for time, you can defrost on the counter at room temperature for up to two hours. Note that the yogurt won't be fully thawed but will soften up.
    Nutrition facts based on whole milk plain Greek yogurt

    Nutrition

    Calories: 110kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 2g | Calcium: 59mg
    Course Breakfast
    Cuisine American
    Tried this Recipe? Tag me Today!Tag me @KidFriendly.Meals today!

    More Kid-Friendly Breakfast Recipes

    • Custard Yogurt Toast (Sweet and Savory)
    • Banana Mug Cake
    • Soft-Baked Banana Oatmeal Bars
    • Easy Spinach Pancakes (with yogurt)

    Share or Save It for Later!

    Share: [addtoany]

    About Min

    Thank you so much for stopping by! I am Min, a Registered Dietitian, a Christ follower, a wife, and a mom to our two miracle babies! Currently, I’m having a ton of fun feeding their tummies and sharing our baby led weaning journey! Follow me on Instagram if interested in seeing daily menu as well as tips and tricks.

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    HI!

    I am MJ, a registered dietitian and a mom of 2. I truly hope you’ll enjoy all the recipes and tips that I share on what and how to feed your child!

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    search

    Trending Now

    Three custard yogurt variations sliced into triangles and squares.

    Custard Yogurt Toast (Sweet and Savory)

    Banana mug cake in a cup with sliced banana and peanut butter drizzle.

    Banana Mug Cake

    An overhead shot of sliced banana oat bars with sliced banana.

    Soft-Baked Banana Oatmeal Bars

    stacked spinach baby pancakes

    Easy Spinach Pancakes (with yogurt)

    Cooked pancake slices on a white platter with dipping sauce.

    Korean Vegetable Pancakes (Yachaejeon)

    four cooked english pizza muffin with one of them sliced into three strips

    Easy English Muffin Pizza (with vegetables)

    Jump to Recipe
    Frozen yogurt blocks in a freezer safe bag.

    Is your baby 4-6 months old?

    Give your baby a head start on solids even before their first bite!
    I'M READY!
    Jump to Recipe
    Frozen yogurt blocks in a freezer safe bag.

    Is your baby 6 months old and up?

    Learn all the secrets to starting solids safely while optimizing nutrition!
    I NEED IT NOW!
    Jump to Recipe
    Frozen yogurt blocks in a freezer safe bag.

    Is your toddler becoming picky?

    Arm yourself with these strategies that will transform your mealtimes!
    YES, PLEASE!

    popular feeding tips

    A four image collage showing how to serve protein finger foods for baby

    Ultimate Guide to Finger Foods for Baby

    A four image collage of healthy baby snacks including iron.

    Healthy Baby Snacks (Easy and Balanced)

    A four image collage of best baby cereals.

    Best Baby Cereal (2022)

    Four top low sugar cereals for toddlers and kids.

    Best Healthy Cereals for Kids

    Footer

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    Copyright © 2023 MJ & Hungryman LLC · Privacy Policy | Contact

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
    Privacy & Cookies Policy

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are as essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
    SAVE & ACCEPT