This delicious, super simple homemade coconut yogurt recipe is made with just 3 ingredients and yields a perfectly thick and tangy dairy-free yogurt!
500 attempts later and WE HAVE HOMEMADE DAIRY-FREE COCONUT YOGURT EVERYONE! No, really, it’s been quite the journey to get this recipe perfect! Maybe not 500 attempts but certainly A LOT – so here’s hoping you all love this recipe as much as I do now!
I know I’ve probably made that sound a lot scarier than it really is but, luckily, once you’ve found the correct method, it really is a breeze to make your own gut-healthy, rich, creamy dairy-free coconut yogurt and with only 3 ingredients!
A few tips for making Coconut Yogurt
- Sterilize everything! – You don’t want the yogurt cultures competing with any bacteria in your pots and jars.
- If using probiotics, choose ones that provide up to 30 billion CFU’s. When I use probiotics, I use 2 pills that have around 15B each.
- The probiotics shouldn’t contain any other pre-biotics or enzymes or else the process won’t work!
- You can also use specialised non-dairy yogurt starter powder instead of the probiotic.
- Lastly, you can actually use a 2 tBsp of store-bought unflavoured yogurt as a yogurt starter too.
- DON’T use any metal spoons to mix any of these mixtures, while making the yogurt as it will deactivate the yogurt starter/probiotics.
- There can be some issues when the yogurt develops: If there is separating, awful smells or any pink spots appearing these are signs that it hasn’t gone right. When re-trying I’d suggest using a different brand of coconut cream.
Now, as I said previously, it’s taken a few attempts to get this ‘just right’ – but with all the different methods I’ve tried, I’m now determined to try and get another one to work so keep your eyes peeled for more (fingers crossed!).
I’ve found that using a store-bought plain yogurt as a yogurt starter works well. However, the issue there is that – especially with dairy-free yogurts, there may be unnecessary additives in the store-bought versions. Make sure to choose a brand that has fewer, clearly marked ingredients. Or if possible, use a dairy-free yogurt starter.
You’re probably wondering, Why bother making homemade coconut yogurt?
Honestly, once you figure out the perfect way to making coconut yogurt it is just one of the most delicious additions to your diet.
Not only that but it’s such a super simple process with just 3 ingredients, and unlike store-bought yogurts, you’ll know exactly what’s in the yogurt so there are no additional ‘nasties’ like many store-bought options have.
Plus – the taste is divine! So creamy and rich and coconut-y. It really is the perfect dairy-free yogurt alternative!
And, if you’re looking for a creative way to use your new yogurt, how about any of my overnight oats recipes or perhaps these delicious Granola cups. Plus, if it’s Christmas time , you could make this beautiful frozen yogurt wreath.
How to make this Dairy-free Coconut Yogurt recipe
For this coconut yogurt, you only need three ingredients; coconut milk, corn starch and a yogurt starter. You’ll also need a food thermometer.
I’ve tried this recipe multiple times with various probiotics and methods. Although it can, and has, worked for many people, I’ve found that the best and most consistent results come from using a powder ‘yogurt starter’ or a store-bought yogurt instead of the probiotics.
Use 1 tsp powder yogurt starter. Make sure to set aside 1 tBsp coconut milk to mix the yogurt starter into.
-OR-
Use 2 tBsp store-bought yogurt.
Heat up the coconut milk and cornstarch together over medium heat, till the mixture reaches 82ºC, stirring occasionally. If you’re wondering why the cornstarch – I’ve found this is 100% needed to give you the delicious thick texture you want. I did lots of research and noticed that almost all store-bought versions have their own thickeners in. I’m guessing this is because plant-based yogurts are thinner, in general, and so need a thickening boost. Just make sure to stir well so there are no lumps from the cornstarch.
Leave the milk to cool down till between 42-44ºC. Then add in the 1tbsp yogurt starter/ coconut milk combination into the heated coconut milk and mix well.
If using powder yogurt started, first mix it with 1 tBsp cool coconut milk, then add it to the warm milk.
-OR-
If using store-bought yogurt, just add it to the warm milk and stir well.
As soon as you’ve mixed well, pour the mixture into a glass container or jar(s).
This coconut yogurt mixture now needs to be placed in a warm environment (wrapped with a warm blanket) or ‘incubated’ at around 40ºC for around 10-12 hours minimum. You can even leave it for up to 16 hours for a tangier, more tart yogurt. After that, place them in the fridge for at least 6 hours for a creamier and thicker consistency. In terms of how to incubate the mix, if you don’t have a specific yogurt incubator (which I know many of you won’t), then simply pour the mixture into a covered pot, wrap it in warm blankets and keep in a warm area of your house.
You can there store your coconut yogurt in a sterilised glass jar in the fridge. This usually lasts between 5-10 days.
Super Tip* Did you know that you can then use a spoonful of this yogurt as a yogurt starter for your next batch of coconut yogurt? However, I would suggest only doing this 1-2 time maximum. This is because the cultures grow weaker over time and stop working.
Other DIY recipes you might be interested in
If you’re looking for more Coconut inspiration then how about this homemade Coconut butter, Virgin Coconut Oil, Coconut Milk . Or even this joint post for coconut bowls, chips and shreds.
As always, I love to see your recreations so let me know how it went, in the comments below. Alternatively, tag me in your recreations @AlphaFoodie.
Dairy-Free Coconut Yogurt
Ingredients
- 2 cups full fat coconut milk
- 1 tBsp corn starch
- 1 tsp powder yogurt starter OR 2 tBsp store-bought unsweetened coconut yogurt
Instructions
- To begin making the coconut yogurt, start by setting aside 1tbsp of coconut milk to mix the yogurt starter into.
- Meanwhile, heat up the coconut milk and cornstarch together over medium heat, till the mixture reaches 82ºC, stirring occasionally.
- Leave the milk to cool down till between 42-44ºC and then add in the 1 tsp yogurt starter and coconut milk combination into the heated coconut milk and mix well.
-OR- If you are using a store-bought coconut yogurt, just add it to the heated coconut milk and stir well. - This coconut yogurt mixture now needs to be ‘incubated’** at around 44ºC for around 10-12 hours minimum. You can even leave it for up to 16 hours for a thicker, more tart yogurt.
- You can then store your coconut yogurt in a sterilised glass jar in the fridge. This usually lasts between 5-7 days.
Video
Notes
Can you use coconut milk in the 1/2 gallon like Silk or others? Or does it half to be full fat from a can? I tried make it from the 1/2 gallon 4 times with probiotics, yogurt starter powder, and using a base made with yogurt already made, in a yogurt maker. No luck. Please help.
Hi Arlina, it’s best if you use a high in fat brand, canned ones work perfectly if you don’t want to make your own from scratch. Please read the instructions I have, I use the powder vegan starter and it always works. I add also corn starch or flour sometimes, read the notes about the almond yogurt, I have more notes there. Please remember to put the starter when the mixture is about 45/50 degrees or so and make sure when you ferment it, it’s a nice warm place. Some people use the oven (switch off but with light is on). Hope these help! I will be making it on my instagram stories next week showing behind the scenes step by step again in case you can watch that!
Is the yogurt supposed to be thick after incubating for the 10-12 hours or does it thicken in the fridge for the 6 hours?
Hi Ailin,
Thank you for your comment.
The yogurt should already be thick after the incubating period. Placing it in the fridge after that allows it to thicken even further. I hope this helps.
Hi! I’ve found that the brand of coconut milk is critical in making coconut milk ice cream. It is so disappointing to go through the whole process and have it fail. Is that the case with yogurt too? Can you share some preferred/tested brands? Thank you!
Hi Paige,
I always make coconut milk at home and then use it to make yogurt – the recipe is here on the blog –> https://www.alphafoodie.com/diy-homemade-coconut-milk/
If you use store-bought coconut milk to make the yogurt, I recommend looking for a brand that has very few ingredients. The thickeners and preservatives that are added could affect the yogurt making process. I hope this helps.
what ratio of water to add to fresh coconut from wet market ? tq.
Hi,
I’d recommend using 1 fresh coconut (just the flesh, not the coconut water) and 2 cups of filtered/drinking water. I hope this helps.
What quantity of cornstarch should be added
Hi,
You need 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and you heat it up together with the milk.
As someone who is dairy free, I really appreciate this post! I usually buy Kite Hill yogurt from Whole Foods, but that can really add up since it’s so expensive! I am so excited to try this, especially since it seems so easy and with only 3 ingredients! Thank you so much for sharing!
Thanks so much for sharing, Cassie. I hope you give this recipe a try. Let me know how it goes.
How can you estimate the temperature of 42 degrees if you don’t have a thermometer?
Hi Sophie, you would stick a clean finger in there and it should barely withstand the heat while you count until ten :). I showed a video on this in my natural yogurt post. Watch that video at the beginning of the post (since there are two videos there – one showing with the finger at the very top and one showing with thermometer).
Hi, great recipe!
What are the quantities you’re using?
Thanks 🙂
Hi, all quantities are listed in the recipe card at the bottom of the post 🙂
Hi, can i use fresh coconut milk from wet market? Thanks.
Hi Mirella,
Yes, you can first make coconut milk with a fresh mature coconut (use just the flesh, not the coconut water) and 2 cups of filtered/drinking water. Then you can proceed with the steps for making the coconut yogurt.
Hope you give this recipe a try.
Do you use fresh coconut milk or canned coconut milk? I am aware that you make your own but I don’t and all the fresh coconut milk in the UK is mixed with other milks (almond or rice) for some reason or sweetened which I do not want. Thank you
I used fresh coconut milk for this recipe. However, you can try with a canned variety and it should work – let me know how it goes!
Hi!
Is it safe to leave the yogurt incubating for up to 24 hours? I forgot to move it from the incubator (I’m using the yogurt setting on my crock pot) to my fridge.
Thanks
Hi Camilla,
Leaving it to incubate for up to 24 hours should be OK. A longer incubation period would result in tangier, more tart yogurt. It’s best to make sure there are no signs of mold before you place it in the fridge. I hope this helps.
hellOOoO !! i’m wondering if i can use the coconut milk i did (with fresh coconut) to do this yogurt. have you tried it ? or i need some coconut milk very thick from the store ??
thank you soOooo much !
you made my life magic !
I’ve used homemade and canned coconut milk and they’ve both worked well – so it should be fine 🙂
HelOoooO !! Do you use the coconut milk you do yourself to do this yogurt. I have 4 coconut i want to do some milk to do this recipe have you done it like this before ?
thank you sOOooO much !
Hi Elsa,
Yes, you can make the coconut milk yourself and then use that to make the coconut yogurt. I hope this helps.
Can you make yogurt using almond milk?
You can indeed! Im still working on the DIY at the moment, but it’s coming soon!
Can’t wait to try this? Where do you buy your cute heart jars. I love them!
Hi Amy, sorry for the late reply. I got mine from the white company but you can find very similar ones from places like tkmax a lot cheaper.
Hi! I loved your recipe. Made 3 batches already 🙂 can I ask if I can use a flavored coconut yogurt? In this case a vanilla bean flavored coconut yogurt.
Hi Lucy,
It’s best to use unflavored yogurt. Flavored ones have additives that could affect the yogurt making process. When your homemade yogurt is ready, you can then flavor it yourself with some vanilla. I hope this helps.