Not surprisingly, yogurt is a heavily consumed food worldwide. Due to its simplicity, it’s a fairly low-cost food to purchase.
However, different versions such as greek yogurt or low-fat versions are becoming increasingly expensive while the quality of bacteria inside is lowering.
The solution here is your yogurt making machine! Homemade versions of yogurt can include incredible amounts of healthier live bacteria and are considerably cheaper than store-bought alternatives.
Once you’ve invested in one of the best yogurt makers, you’re free to create all kinds of yogurt variations from flavors to vegan alternatives.
You may not know where to start in looking for a yogurt maker, so we’ve compiled 6 of the best plus a handy buying guide at the end!
See Our Top Yoghurt Makers
| # | PREVIEW | Product | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1
Best For Low Budgets
1Lakeland Yoghurt Maker
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
| 2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|||
| 3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|||
| 4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|||
| 5
Best For Higher Budgets
5Cuisinart CYM-100 Electronic Yogurt Maker
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
| 6
Best Overall
6Proctor Silex Yogurt Maker Machine
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||
1. Lakeland Yoghurt Maker
- Makes multiple yogurt types and cheese.
- The digital screen is easy to read.
- Includes both 1.8 and 1.6-liter containers.
- Yogurt is ready in only 8 hours.
This Lakeland BPA-free yogurt maker created multiple types of both yogurt and cheese. The variety of products it can make, paired with the low price point give it incredible value for money.
The unit itself is taller than it is wide, meaning it won’t take up too much counter space in your kitchen. Plus, it weighs just over 1 kilogram so it is fairly easy to move around.
The tower shape also makes it easy to store in a kitchen cupboard.
A small digital screen can be found towards the top of the maker in the center displaying the time remaining for the yogurt to process.
Thankfully the entire process takes a minimum of 8 hours, so yogurt prepared the night before will be ready for breakfast the next morning! Four round-shaped touch screen buttons accompany the screen; including a power button, increase and decrease buttons for the time, and a “set” option.
In terms of specs, this device has a range of 25 to 65 degrees celsius which is what allows it to create different kinds of cheese as well as milk-based yogurt due to different temperature requirements.
A strainer is also included for thicker greek-style yogurts.
A downside of this model is that it’s not guaranteed to work with non-dairy milk alternatives, however, it can still be tried.
Specifications
Pros
- Touch screen.
- Temperature range of 25 to 65 degrees celsius.
- Includes a strainer.
- BPA-free machine.
Cons
- Not guaranteed to work with vegan milk options such as soya.
- Not as long-lasting as other models.
2. Lakeland Digital 7 Yoghurt Maker
- Includes 7 individual portion cups.
- Ready in just 8 hours
- The easy-to-read digital display panel
- 20 to 60 degrees Celsius temperature range.
This Lakeland model is unique in that it has 7 individual yogurt pots, rather than one large pot.
Multiple pots allow you to try different amounts of milk and yogurt bacteria at one time to find your perfect recipe. Plus, you can flavor your yogurts differently, rather than having to stick to just one option.
The low down design is perfect for storing in cupboards that don’t have much height, helping you to keep your countertops as mess-free as possible.
Seven individual yogurt cups are encased in a circular shaped base with a plastic lid. If you’re looking for replacement jars, they can also be purchased separately. The lid also has a built-in handle for easy lifting.
In the center of the unit is the digital display panel, showing the timer countdown for the yogurt process and 4 function buttons.
After the liquid is prepared, the yogurt can be ready in as little as 8 hours! Once the yogurt is finished, it can be stored for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Furthermore, this yogurt maker has a temperature range of 20 to 60 degrees celsius, making is suitable for multiple yoghurt types depending on your preference.
The down side to this large model is that it weighs over 2 kilograms. However, this is still fairly lightweight for an appliance!
Specifications
Pros
- The yogurt stores for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Extra jars can be purchased separately.
- Not too bulky in size.
- The frontal buttons are easy to use.
Cons
- Heavier than other models.
- The temperature is not very stable.
3. Luvele Pure Yoghurt Maker
- Automatic switch-off
- Attractive beige and white design.
- Includes a 24-hour digital timer.
- Three different temperature settings.
The slightly higher price point of this Luvele yogurt maker is certainly justified with its features.
Firstly, the beige and cream-coloured design is attractive and prevents your appliance from becoming an eyesore in the kitchen.
The unit has a moderate height and won’t cause you too much trouble if it needs to be stored in a cupboard.
Another useful feature of this machine is that it includes 4 ceramic jars to create your yogurt in, rather than a single jar.
This allows for easy cleaning as well as multiple yogurt flavours that can be moved straight from the machine into the fridge.
In terms of technology, the unit includes an automatic switch-off function so that your yoghurt wont overcook. It also includes a 24 hour digital timer, so you can take on recipes that require a long time in the machine.
The time is displayed on the waterproof digital touch panel on the center of the machine.
Lastly, 3 different temperature settings (36, 38 and 40 degrees celsius) allow for different types of yogurt to be made such as greek and natural yogurt.
The machine works with water bath technology to ensure accurate temperatures to allow the active cultures to grow.
Specifications
Pros
- Waterproof touch panel.
- Includes 4 ceramic jars.
- Large pot size makes storage easy.
- Low height fits well into any kitchen size.
Cons
- Higher price point than others.
- The base is a little wider than other designs.
4. Euro Cuisine YMX650 Yogurt Maker
- LED display.
- Automatic switch-off after 14 hours.
- Includes 6 dishwasher-safe glass jars.
- Automatic temperature control.
This circular-shapes Euro Cuisine yogurt maker holds 7 individual glass 6 oz jars inside the one unit, allowing for multiple “mixtures” to be tried at one time. The glass jars can also be put straight into the fridge when the yogurt is ready, allowing for safe storage!
As an added bonus, these jars are dishwasher-safe.
In order to store the yogurt properly, the top of the jars include rotary date settings lids so that you can be sure of the use-by date.
Aesthetically, this yogurt machine can look fairly well-placed on any countertop thanks to the simplistic white and grey design. Towards the center of the unit if the small LED display panel, indicating the timer for the yogurt.
Below the screen are the two simple push-buttons to increase or decrease the time. Once the yogurt is ready, the display will beep. Plus, it features an automatic shutoff after 15 hours.
Lastly, this machine features automatic temperature control to ensure your yogurt is being crafted at the correct temperatures.
Plus, this machine features a 3 year warranty which is fairly generous for any appliance!
Specifications
Pros
- Produces a high range of probiotics.
- BPA-free metal lids.
- Just two buttons make usage simple.
- Suitable for vegan milk options.
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than some other models.
- Some may prefer one large yogurt pot rather than individual sizes.
5. Cuisinart CYM-100 Electronic Yogurt Maker
- Modern silver and white design.
- Large 50-ounce capacity.
- Includes a built-in cooling system for storage.
- High-quality stainless steel.
Cuisinart has really transformed the regular yogurt maker design with this CYM-100 taking a basic design and turning it into a sleek and modern appliance.
Its tall, oval shaped build is crafted from white plastic and stainless steel. Thanks to the attractive design, it can be left on your countertop even when not in use.
The design is also under 1 and a half kilograms, making it easy to move around if need be.
Secondly, the design is simple to use. In the upper center of the device you’ll find the LED screen display indicating the time remaining.
Alongside this are the start and top buttons, as well as the increase and decrease buttons for the timer.
The unit includes a single yogurt pot inside with a 50 oz capacity, so only one mixture can be created at once.
The pot includes its own container lid, as well as the housing lid for the entire unit. This machine also comes with a yogurt scoop.
Finally, the design includes extra technology for yogurt storing. It includes a built-in cooling system, allowing you to cool your yogurt after the creation process is complete and prevent it from overheating afterwards.
Plus, the machine works with soy milk as well as regular dairy milk.
Specifications
Pros
- Simple to operate.
- Includes time controls.
- Suitable for soymilk too.
- LED timer display.
Cons
- Only one yogurt pot.
- It’s expensive.
6. Proctor Silex Yogurt Maker Machine
- The sleek silver and white design is attractive.
- Large 32 oz capacity.
- The container can be used to store the yogurt too.
- Alarm makes a noise when it’s completed.
This high powered Proctor Silex yogurt machine is both attractive and well designed. It has a polished stainless steel and black plastic design, creating an appliance that doesn’t stick out too much in a kitchen.
Furthermore, the box-like shape also makes it easy to store in a cupboard and is dishwasher safe too! On top of the unit there is a built in handle, making it easy to move around when needed.
Towards the top of the machine there is a snamm digital panel displaying the time remaining once the machine has been turned on.
Next to it there are 4 large buttons; on and off, and increase/decrease for the timer. Once the yogurt has been cultured the timer will buzz which takes as little as 8 hours.
A large 32 ounce capacity container is included inside the machine and can be used to store the yogurt in the fridge once the process is complete too. It has snap down clips making it easy to open and close.
However, one pot means that only one variety of yogurt can be made at one time.
There are also no additional pots that can be purchased, in case replacements are required.
Lastly, an extra plus point of this yogurt maker is that it’s suitable for non-dairy milk too!
Specifications
Pros
- Digital control panel and display.
- Dishwasher safe container.
- The lid includes an integrated handle.
- Suitable for non-dairy milk.
Cons
- There are no additional pots to purchase.
- Just one pot prevents different flavours from being made.
Yogurt Maker Buying Guide
Technology
Although yogurt can be made by cooking it on a very low temperature in the oven for hours, the easiest way is with an electric yogurt maker. The reasons being; they are so much faster, easier and you’re guaranteed better results.
A yogurt maker works by keeping the mixture of milk and yogurt culture at a constant temperature for a given amount of time. Some work through water bath technology, and others through an electric heater mechanism.
Materials
Materials of a yogurt maker can differentiate between brands. Although most, if not all, do include plastic, some other interior and exterior materials vary.
Stainless Steel
You will have seen above that many of the more expensive models, such as the Cuisinart yogurt maker, include stainless steel parts. Stainless steel is an excellent choice to create a sturdier and long-lasting machine, however the downside is that it can be heavier and more expensive.
Although it looks nice on the outside, the interior mechanics are usually the same as a simpler plastic model, regardless of whether or not the materials include stainless steel.
Glass Jars
Some yogurt makers seen above come with a single plastic container that is used to make the yogurt inside, and can also be used to store the yogurt in the fridge afterwards.
If you need a yogurt machine that allows for multiple types of mixtures or flavour to be created at one time, then one of the options with several glass jars would be a better choice.
The single glass jars fit into one machine, and work in exactly the same way as one large pot. They usually contain a single serving per jar.
Features
Most yogurt makers are fairly similar in design, however there are some extra features you may want to look out for if you have specific needs in mind, such as non-dairy yogurt or a yogurt maker that can create cheese too!
Digital Display
Digital displays are essential in modern yogurt makers in order to indicate the time passed or remaining for the cultivation process.
The digital displays often have LED backlights behind them so that the timer is easier to see. Apart from the time, some will also display the temperature if the machine has multiple settings.
Temperature Settings
Different yogurt styles, thickness, tanginess and culture levels require different temperature settings in order to form.
Simpler yogurt machine models work with just one temperature that is suitable for regular yogurt (this yogurt can be strained to create greek yogurt, and does not require a different temperature). On the other hand, some machines include 3 different temperature settings to adjust depending on the milk type.
If you need a simple, fuss-free yogurt machine you will be more than happy with a single-temperature model. Yogurt connoisseurs would be better off with multiple temperature settings which can also create cheese.
Digital Timer
Most digital displays will work with a timer that you can manually adjust using buttons. It’s important to look out for a timer function so that you can make sure to not overcook the yogurt mixture.
You’ll also see some models above that automatically switch off when the timer is complete, and others that even shift into a cooling mode afterwards.
Dishwasher Safe
A highlight of many appliances these days is that they’re been created with dishwasher-safe pots and attachments.
Most yogurt pots or jars tend to be dishwasher safe, but it’s best to check the manual first and always wash them on the top shelf.
If you are particularly concerned about small dish washers, it would be best to opt for one of the versions with multiple small jars, rather than one large pot.
BPA Free
Bisphenol, BPA, is a type of chemical known to be used in some types of plastic manufacturing. When heated, it is said that this chemical can reach food stored inside the plastic.
That’s why many people prefer to opt for “BPA-free” plastic containers like in many of the yogurt makers above.
Pricing Range
The price of a new appliance can often be the deciding factor when choosing which one to purchase. Like many other kitchen products prices for yogurt makers vary. This can be based on a few key specs:
- Wattage. A higher wattage machine will have a larger motor and therefore cost more.
- Materials. As we’ve covered above, stainless steel can be a costlier version than plastic.
- Amount of containers or pots. Multiple smaller pots are usually more expensive than one large one. However, if the small pots are plastic, they can be just as cheap as a large one.
- Brand. As always, certain brands cost more.
- Temperature settings and extra features. Different temperature ranges, large digital displays and timer functions can always increase the cost of a yogurt maker.
In the long run, your own yogurt maker can save you a surprising amount of money rather than continuing to use shop-bought yogurt.
Cleaning Yoghurt Maker
We covered dish-washer safe yogurt maker parts a little above. But what about cleaning the machine itself?
Unless the manufacturer’s guide says differently, it’s always best to clean the appliance with a warm damp cloth first.
If it’s still not clean enough, you can use a milk dishwashing detergent to clean the insides and outsides of the machine.
The yogurt pot/pots can be washed by hand with detergent and a cloth or put in the dishwasher if suitable. Due to the yogurt process involving culturing the yogurt, make sure to clean the pots well to remove any undesirable bacteria before and after using them.
It’s extremely important to make sure liquids stay well away from the cable and other electronic parts of the machine.
Our Verdict
We’ve now covered 6 of the best yogurt makers, plus our buying guide to help you pick out your new appliance.
While it may at first seem excessive to make your own yogurt, you should hopefully have seen how simple the machines can be, and that in the long run it can save you a lot of money to make your own!
Some of the cheapest yogurt makers are under the 40 pound mark, whereas more complex models are over 100 pounds.
If it’s your first purchase, you’ll do just fine with our Best for Low Budgets option due to its simplicity.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a machine with higher quality and more options, our Top of the Range model may be the best choice!
