Healthy Vanilla Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, vitamin D, protein, and probiotics. The only concern is that most options contain high amounts of added sugar. And that’s why I always recommend purchasing plain yogurt and sweetening it yourself. It takes very minimal effort and tastes just as good, if not better because you have full control over what to add and how much. Like this creamy vanilla yogurt! 2-3 minutes is all it takes to make, and I have a feeling you’ll never purchase another vanilla-flavored yogurt from the grocery store again. Want to try other flavored yogurts? Here’s how to make strawberry yogurt, blueberry yogurt, and mango yogurt! And you can certainly add these flavored yogurts to your smoothies to make them more creamy and filling. Or turn them into the most delicious fruit yogurt dip!
Ingredients
Yogurt – My family loves Greek yogurt so that’s what we always have on hand, but you can use regular yogurt or dairy-free yogurt. Just be sure to get the PLAIN flavor. I also recommend getting whole milk yogurt (4% or 5%) especially for young kids. Fat plays a critical role in optimal brain development. Real Vanilla – be sure to use pure vanilla extract, NOT imitation, for best flavor. Honey – Just a little goes a long way in sweetening unsweetened plain yogurt! Leave it out if serving to your baby (honey before 1 year can lead to botulism) or if avoiding added sugar. You can also try adding date syrup. Cinnamon – this is optional but will complement and enhance the vanilla flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This just may be the easiest recipe I’ve ever written! Add yogurt in a bowl and combine with honey and vanilla. I find using a spoon is easier and quicker than a whisk.
Tips for Success
If you want to turn a whole 32 ounce container of plain yogurt into vanilla yogurt, simply double the recipe. I’ve found that the perfect vanilla to yogurt ratio is 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla for 1 cup of yogurt. But if you like your yogurt more vanilla-y, then feel free to add more. Adjust the sweetness level – when making vanilla yogurt for the first time, start with just 2 teaspoons and add more depending on your preference. 1 tablespoons is the sweet spot for us. You can also leave it out entirely and enjoy with fresh, frozen, or dried fruits.
Ways to Use Vanilla Yogurt
While delicious as is, the creamy yogurt pairs so well with all kinds of flavors and textures!
Fresh fruit Dried fruit Nuts Seeds (hemp, flax, chia) Granola (try this homemade no added sugar granola) Cereal Chocolate chips Coconut flakes Peanut butter (or nut/seed butter)
You can also add vanilla yogurt to your favorite recipes, like:
Smoothies Yogurt parfaits Pancakes Overnight oats Frozen yogurt bars
Storage Suggestions
I like to store 1/2 cup portions in small airtight containers. That way I can easily grab one from the refrigerator in the morning along with various toppings. It will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze for up to 3 months. Here’s how to freeze yogurt.
More Yogurt Recipes
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!
