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. Included are instructions on how to safely thaw it as well as plenty of recipes to help use it all up.

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

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

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

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

• Spinach pancakes
• Beet pancakes
• Butternut squash pancakes

Smoothies

• Greek yogurt smoothies
• Banana watermelon smoothie
• Peach Banana smoothie

Frozen treats

• Frozen peach yogurt

Sauces, Dips, Pudding

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

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