Authentic Homemade Yogurt

Ingredients

• 1/2 gallon whole milk
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (with live active cultures)
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

1. Pour the milk into a large pot and heat on medium heat until it reaches 180°F.
2. Remove from heat and allow to cool to 110°F.
3. Mix the yogurt and sugar together in a small bowl.
4. Once the milk has cooled, add the yogurt mixture and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a sterile container and cover with a lid.
6. Place the container in a warm area and let sit for 8-10 hours.
7. After 8-10 hours, the yogurt should be thick and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract, if desired.
8. Refrigerate for several hours before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Yogurt is a fermented food, meaning it is made using bacteria to breakdown lactose sugar into lactic acid.
• Yogurt is a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help keep your gut healthy.
• Homemade yogurt tends to be much thicker and creamier than store-bought yogurt.