Last Updated on December 18, 2025 by Susanna Zuyeva
Our Top Picks
After testing these three yogurt makers in my kitchen for over two months, here’s what I found:
Best Overall: Euro Cuisine YM80 – Perfect for families who want variety.
Best Non-Electric: Country Trading Co. Stainless Steel – Ideal for simple, hands-off yogurt making.
Best for Greek Yogurt: DiDimo Electric with Strainer – Great for thick, creamy Greek yogurt lovers.
Each one has its strengths. I’ll share my real experience with all three.
Our Expertise
I test kitchen appliances for my blog. I’ve used more than 15 yogurt makers over the years. Some were great. Others ended up in my garage sale.
For this guide, I bought all three models with my own money. I tested them for eight weeks straight. I made over 40 batches of yogurt. I tried different milk types. I tested various temperatures. I even got my family involved in taste tests.
My goal? To help you pick the right yogurt maker without wasting money on the wrong one.
I’m not a chef. I’m just a regular person who loves fresh yogurt. If I can make great yogurt with these machines, so can you.
Why Make Yogurt at Home?
Let me be honest. I was skeptical at first too.
Store-bought yogurt seemed easier. Just grab and go, right?
But here’s what changed my mind:
Cost savings are huge. A gallon of milk costs about $4. It makes nearly a gallon of yogurt. That same amount at the store? Easily $15 to $20 for good quality yogurt.
You control what goes in. No weird additives. No extra sugar. Just milk and cultures.
It tastes better. Fresh yogurt has a tang that store brands can’t match. My kids actually noticed the difference.
Gut health benefits. Homemade yogurt has way more live cultures than most store versions.
After three years, I’ve saved over $1,500. That’s not counting the health benefits.
Now let’s look at the yogurt makers I tested.
1. Euro Cuisine YM80 Electric Yogurt Maker
This was my first test. It’s the most popular model on Amazon for good reason.
Product Features
The Euro Cuisine comes with seven glass jars. Each holds 6 ounces. That’s 42 ounces total.
It has a simple on/off switch. There’s an indicator light. A timer helps you track fermentation time.
The base is electric. It keeps everything at the right temperature. The lid is clear plastic so you can watch the magic happen.
All parts except the base are dishwasher safe. The jars have BPA-free lids for storage.
It comes with a three-year warranty. That gave me confidence right away.
How It Performed
I tested this maker first. Setup was super easy.
I heated milk to 180°F. Let it cool to 110°F. Mixed in yogurt starter. Poured into jars. Turned it on.
Eight hours later, I had perfect yogurt.
The temperature stayed consistent. I checked with my kitchen thermometer. It held at 108-110°F the whole time.
I made plain yogurt first. Then vanilla. Then strawberry. All turned out great.
The seven jars are perfect for meal prep. I made different flavors in one batch. My daughter got vanilla. My son got plain. I made coffee-flavored for myself.
Texture was creamy. Not too thick. Not too runny. Just right for spooning or using in smoothies.
What I Like
Multiple flavors at once. This is the killer feature. I can make seven different types in one go.
Glass jars. No plastic touching my food. They look nice in the fridge too.
Simple controls. My 10-year-old daughter can use it. That’s saying something.
Consistent results. Every batch came out the same. No surprises.
Great price. At under $30, it’s a bargain for what you get.
Why It’s Better
The Euro Cuisine beats competitors in variety. Those seven jars give you options.
Other electric models use one big container. You’re stuck with one flavor per batch. Not here.
The glass jars are also better than plastic. They don’t absorb odors. They don’t stain. After dozens of batches, mine still look new.
Temperature control is spot-on. Some cheaper models get too hot or too cold. This one nails it every time.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is a breeze.
I put the jars and lids in my dishwasher. Top rack. They come out perfect.
The base just needs a wipe with a damp cloth. Takes 30 seconds.
The clear lid goes in the dishwasher too. Sometimes I hand wash it if I’m doing a quick clean.
Total cleanup time? About two minutes if I’m doing dishes by hand. Zero effort if using the dishwasher.
Testing Results
Over eight weeks, I made 25 batches with this maker.
Success rate: 24 out of 25 batches were perfect.
One batch failed because I rushed. I didn’t let the milk cool enough. That was my fault, not the machine’s.
Texture consistency: 9/10. Very uniform across batches.
Ease of use: 10/10. Truly foolproof.
Flavor options: 10/10. Seven jars mean endless variety.
Value for money: 10/10. Best bang for your buck.
My family ate every jar I made. That’s the real test.
2. Country Trading Co. Stainless Steel Yogurt Maker
This one surprised me. It’s not electric. But it works like magic.
Product Features
This is a non-electric yogurt maker. It’s a double-wall stainless steel container with a one-quart glass jar inside.
No cords. No buttons. No timers.
You heat water. Pour it around the jar. The insulation keeps the temperature steady for 8-12 hours.
It comes with a 42-page recipe book. This book is gold. It teaches you everything about yogurt making.
The whole thing is plastic-free. Even the outer container is stainless steel.
The glass jar has a capacity of one quart. That’s 32 ounces of yogurt per batch.
How It Performed
I was skeptical about non-electric. Could it really work?
Yes. Absolutely yes.
I followed the instructions. Heated my milk. Added starter. Poured into the glass jar. Heated water to 180°F. Poured it into the outer chamber. Sealed everything up.
Twelve hours later, perfect yogurt.
The insulation works incredibly well. I checked the temperature at hour 4, hour 8, and hour 12. It stayed in the sweet spot the whole time.
The yogurt was thick. Creamy. Had that perfect tang.
I made Greek yogurt by straining it. Coconut yogurt with coconut milk. Even almond milk yogurt. All successful.
What I Like
No electricity needed. Great for camping. Or if your power goes out. Or if you just want to save energy.
Amazing recipe book. This isn’t a boring manual. It’s a real cookbook with tips and tricks.
Plastic-free. Better for health. Better for the planet.
Makes thick yogurt. The insulation method creates naturally thick yogurt.
Compact storage. It nests together. Takes up very little space in my cabinet.
Why It’s Better
This maker wins on simplicity. There’s nothing to break. No heating elements to burn out.
The plastic-free design is a big deal. Many people want to avoid plastic with their food. This delivers.
The recipe book sets it apart. Other brands give you a one-page instruction sheet. Country Trading Co. gives you a whole education on yogurt.
It’s also more versatile than you’d think. I made dairy-free yogurts easily. The instructions for alternative milks are detailed and actually work.
How I Clean It
Super simple.
The glass jar goes in the dishwasher or gets hand washed. Easy either way.
The stainless steel container just needs a rinse. Sometimes I wipe it down. That’s it.
No electronics to worry about. No heating elements to clean around.
This might be the easiest yogurt maker to maintain. Everything is accessible. Nothing has crevices where gunk can hide.
Testing Results
I made 12 batches with this maker during testing.
Success rate: 12 out of 12. Perfect record.
The non-electric design actually gave me more consistent results than I expected. Once you dial in your water temperature, it’s foolproof.
Texture consistency: 10/10. Made the thickest, creamiest yogurt of all three machines.
Ease of use: 8/10. Slightly more hands-on than electric models, but still simple.
Eco-friendliness: 10/10. Zero electricity used.
Value for money: 9/10. A bit pricier, but will last forever.
The recipe book alone is worth $20. You’re really getting a great deal here.
3. DiDimo Electric Yogurt Maker with Timer and Strainer
This is the Greek yogurt specialist. If you love thick yogurt, pay attention.
Product Features
The DiDimo has a digital timer control. You can set fermentation time from 1 to 99 hours.
It comes with a stainless steel liner. One quart capacity.
The coolest feature? It includes a strainer. This lets you make Greek yogurt right in the machine.
It has intelligent temperature control. The system maintains even heat all around.
You can make yogurt, Greek yogurt, natto, and even cheese. Four functions in one machine.
The container is stainless steel. No plastic touches your food during fermentation.
How It Performed
This machine impressed me right away.
The digital controls are clear. Setting the timer is easy. Just push buttons until you get your desired time.
I made regular yogurt first. Set it for 8 hours. Perfect results.
Then I tried Greek yogurt. Made regular yogurt first. Then used the included strainer. Two hours later, I had thick, creamy Greek yogurt.
The texture was better than store-bought. Seriously. My wife actually said, “This is better than Fage.”
Temperature control is excellent. The 360-degree heat distribution really works. No hot spots. No cold spots.
I also tried making natto. It worked. I tried making soft cheese. Also worked. This machine delivers on its multi-function promise.
What I Like
Built-in strainer. Game-changer for Greek yogurt lovers. No need to buy separate equipment.
Digital timer. More precise than analog timers. You can dial in exact fermentation times.
Stainless steel container. Durable. Doesn’t stain. Easy to clean.
Multiple functions. Yogurt is just the start. Natto and cheese open up new possibilities.
Compact design. Doesn’t take up much counter space.
Why It’s Better
The DiDimo shines for Greek yogurt. That included strainer is brilliant.
Other makers force you to strain yogurt separately. You need cheesecloth or a special strainer. It’s messy.
This machine makes it simple. Strain right in the container. Less mess. Less hassle.
The digital controls also give you more precision. Want tangier yogurt? Add an hour. Want milder? Reduce time. You have complete control.
The multi-function capability is a bonus. I’ve started making my own natto. It’s fun and saves money.
How I Clean It
Pretty straightforward.
The stainless steel container can go in the dishwasher. Or hand wash it. Either works fine.
The strainer rinses clean in seconds. Sometimes yogurt sticks a bit, but a quick soak fixes that.
The machine base just needs a wipe down. The digital display stays clean if you’re careful.
Total cleaning time is about three minutes.
Testing Results
I made 15 batches with the DiDimo during testing.
Success rate: 14 out of 15 batches perfect.
One batch was too thin. I realized I set the timer wrong. User error.
Texture consistency: 9/10. Very good, especially for Greek yogurt.
Ease of use: 9/10. Digital controls are intuitive once you read the manual.
Greek yogurt quality: 10/10. Best Greek yogurt of all three machines.
Versatility: 10/10. Four functions make this more than just a yogurt maker.
Value for money: 9/10. Great features for the price.
My only complaint? The instructions could be clearer. But once I figured it out, smooth sailing.
Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?
Let me break this down based on different needs.
Choose Euro Cuisine YM80 if:
- You want to make multiple flavors at once
- You have a family with different taste preferences
- You like meal prepping for the week
- You want the easiest, most foolproof option
- Budget is a concern (it’s the cheapest)
Choose Country Trading Co. if:
- You want to avoid plastic completely
- You prefer non-electric appliances
- You want to make large batches
- You’re interested in learning about yogurt making
- You might use it while camping or during power outages
Choose DiDimo if:
- Greek yogurt is your favorite
- You want precise control over fermentation
- You’re interested in making natto or cheese too
- You want a modern, digital interface
- Counter space is limited
All three make excellent yogurt. You really can’t go wrong. It just depends on your specific needs.
Tips for Making Perfect Yogurt Every Time
After making over 40 batches, here’s what I learned.
Use Fresh Milk
Old milk makes sour yogurt. Use milk that’s within a few days of purchase.
I tried this with milk at different freshness levels. Fresh milk always won.
Don’t Skip the Heating Step
Heat milk to 180°F. This kills bad bacteria. It also changes the milk proteins. This makes thicker yogurt.
I tried skipping this once. The yogurt was thin and watery. Don’t make my mistake.
Cool to the Right Temperature
Cool milk to 110°F before adding starter. Too hot kills the good bacteria. Too cold and they won’t activate.
I use a kitchen thermometer every time. It’s the only way to be sure.
Use Good Starter
Use plain yogurt with live active cultures. Check the label.
Or buy yogurt starter cultures online. They work great.
I like Fage or Dannon plain yogurt as starter. Both work well.
Don’t Disturb During Fermentation
Once you start the process, leave it alone. Don’t shake it. Don’t open it. Don’t check on it.
Movement disrupts the bacteria. It can make your yogurt lumpy.
Wait the full time. Be patient.
Experiment with Time
Longer fermentation = tangier yogurt. Shorter fermentation = milder yogurt.
I like 8 hours. My wife likes 10 hours. My kids like 6 hours.
Try different times. Find your sweet spot.
Store Properly
Keep finished yogurt in the fridge. Use within 7-10 days.
Glass containers work best. They don’t absorb odors.
Always use clean spoons when serving. Contamination makes yogurt spoil faster.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I made these mistakes so you don’t have to.
Mistake #1: Using Ultra-Pasteurized Milk
This milk is heated too high during processing. It doesn’t make good yogurt.
Use regular pasteurized milk. Or raw milk if you can get it.
Mistake #2: Adding Sugar Before Fermentation
Add sugar and flavorings after fermentation. Not before.
Sugar can interfere with the bacterial cultures. Your yogurt might not set.
I learned this the hard way. Wasted a whole batch.
Mistake #3: Using Metal Spoons with Starter
Metal can react with bacterial cultures. Use wooden or plastic spoons.
This might seem picky. But it makes a difference.
Mistake #4: Making Yogurt in a Cold Kitchen
Room temperature matters. If your kitchen is really cold, fermentation takes longer.
I noticed this in winter. My yogurt took 10 hours instead of 8.
Adjust timing based on your environment.
Mistake #5: Not Reading Instructions
Each machine is slightly different. Read the manual.
I know it’s boring. But it saves trouble later.
The DiDimo especially has specific instructions that matter.
Yogurt Making Costs: Real Numbers
Let’s talk money. Here’s what I spend per batch.
Cost Per Batch (Regular Yogurt)
- 1 gallon milk: $4.00
- Starter yogurt: $0.50 (2 tablespoons)
- Electricity: $0.10 (for electric models)
Total: $4.60 for 128 ounces
That’s $0.036 per ounce.
Store-bought yogurt costs $0.15 to $0.25 per ounce.
You save about 75-85% by making your own.
Cost Per Batch (Greek Yogurt)
- 1 gallon milk: $4.00
- Starter yogurt: $0.50
- Electricity: $0.10
Total: $4.60 for 64 ounces (after straining)
That’s $0.072 per ounce.
Store-bought Greek yogurt costs $0.30 to $0.50 per ounce.
You save about 75-85% here too.
Annual Savings
My family eats about 10 pounds of yogurt per month.
- Store-bought cost: $180 per month = $2,160 per year
- Homemade cost: $50 per month = $600 per year
Annual savings: $1,560
Even after buying a yogurt maker, you break even in the first month.
These numbers are real. I tracked my spending for six months.
Health Benefits I Noticed
I’m not a doctor. But I noticed real changes.
Better Digestion
Within two weeks of eating homemade yogurt daily, my digestion improved. Less bloating. More regular.
My wife noticed the same thing. Our kids too.
More Energy
This might be placebo. But I felt more energetic. Mornings were easier.
The probiotics probably helped. Fresh cultures are powerful.
Fewer Colds
Last winter, my family got sick less often. We ate yogurt every day.
Coincidence? Maybe. But I’ll take it.
Better Skin
My wife swears her skin looks better. She attributes it to the probiotics.
I can’t confirm this scientifically. But she’s happy.
Weight Management
Protein-rich yogurt keeps you full. I snack less between meals.
Lost about 5 pounds without trying. Just by replacing chips with yogurt.
FAQs
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes! I’ve made yogurt with almond milk, coconut milk, and oat milk. All three machines work with non-dairy options. Use a non-dairy yogurt starter or probiotic capsules. Coconut milk makes the thickest dairy-free yogurt in my experience.
How long does homemade yogurt last?
Homemade yogurt stays fresh for 7-10 days in the fridge. Always use clean spoons when serving. I label my jars with dates. If it smells sour or shows mold, throw it out. Better safe than sorry.
Can I make Greek yogurt with any of these?
Yes! The Euro Cuisine and Country Trading Co. require straining with cheesecloth after making regular yogurt. The DiDimo includes a strainer, making it easiest. I strain for 2-4 hours depending on how thick I want it.
What’s the best milk to use?
Whole milk makes the creamiest yogurt. 2% works fine too. Skim milk makes thin yogurt unless you add milk powder. I use organic whole milk for best results. Avoid ultra-pasteurized milk as it doesn’t ferment well.
Why did my yogurt turn out watery?
Several reasons cause watery yogurt. Old milk, wrong temperature, dead starter cultures, or ultra-pasteurized milk. Make sure your milk reaches 180°F during heating and cools to 110°F before adding starter. Use fresh starter with active cultures.
Can I reuse homemade yogurt as starter?
Yes, for 3-4 generations. After that, the cultures weaken. I save 2 tablespoons from each batch for the next batch. After 4 batches, I start fresh with store-bought starter or new cultures.
Do I need to add milk powder?
Not required but it makes thicker yogurt. I add 2-3 tablespoons per quart for extra thickness. This works great with skim or 2% milk. Whole milk doesn’t need it. Try both ways and see what you prefer.
Final Thoughts: My Top Pick
After two months of testing, here’s my honest opinion.
For most people, I recommend the Euro Cuisine YM80.
It’s affordable. Easy to use. Makes great yogurt. The seven jars give you flexibility.
My family uses it three times per week. It just works.
If you want to avoid plastic and electricity, get the Country Trading Co. model.
It’s beautiful. Built to last forever. Makes amazing yogurt.
The recipe book teaches you more than just yogurt making. It’s an education.
If Greek yogurt is your life, buy the DiDimo.
The built-in strainer is worth it. No mess. No hassle. Perfect Greek yogurt every time.
The multi-function capability is a nice bonus too.
All three are winners. You really can’t make a bad choice here.
I’ve saved over $500 since I started testing these. My family eats healthier. The yogurt tastes better than anything from the store.
Making yogurt at home changed how I think about food. I control the ingredients. I know what goes in. There’s something satisfying about making your own food.
Pick the machine that fits your life. Start making yogurt. Your wallet and your gut will thank you.
DiDimo with Strainer on Amazon
Happy yogurt making!