Yes, yogurt can be frozen. All types of yogurt—full-fat, nonfat, Greek, or those with fruit—can be frozen. However, keep in mind that freezing does affect the texture.
How Freezing Affects Yogurt
While freezing extends the yogurt's shelf life, it alters its consistency. Thawing may result in a grainier, watery, or slightly acidic yogurt compared to its fresh counterpart. High-fat yogurts, like Greek yogurt, tend to fare better than low-fat varieties.
Freezing Methods
Several methods exist for freezing yogurt, depending on the quantity:
- Small amounts: Use ice cube trays for portion control, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag for long-term storage.
- Larger amounts: Freeze yogurt in airtight containers, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
Shelf Life and Thawing
Frozen yogurt is best consumed within two months for optimal taste and texture. To thaw, transfer the yogurt to the refrigerator overnight.
Using Frozen Yogurt
Though the texture changes, frozen yogurt can still be used in various applications:
- Smoothies
- Baking (e.g., muffins, cakes)
- Sauces (after thawing and blending)
Remember that making homemade frozen yogurt requires specific methods and ingredients to achieve a scoopable consistency similar to store-bought options. Simply freezing yogurt will not create a traditional frozen yogurt texture.
