Introduction
Did you know that 68% of people who switch to dairy-free alternatives struggle to find a yogurt that matches the creamy texture they’re used to? If you’ve been on this frustrating search, you’re not alone. Making Thermomix Coconut Yogurt at home not only solves this problem but also gives you complete control over ingredients, sweetness, and thickness. The beauty of homemade Thermomix coconut yogurt lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, these five delicious batches will transform your breakfast routine, desserts, and snacks with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients List
For the basic Thermomix Coconut Yogurt:
- 2 cans (800ml) full-fat coconut milk (at least 60% coconut extract)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 2 capsules probiotics OR 2 tablespoons store-bought coconut yogurt (as starter)
- 1 tablespoon tapioca starch or arrowroot powder (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Pro tip: Select coconut milk without guar gum or other additives for the creamiest texture. The rich, velvety coconut aroma of premium brands creates a sensory experience that elevates your yogurt from good to exceptional.
Timing
Preparation time: 10 minutes (85% quicker than most fermented foods)
Fermentation time: 8-12 hours (varies based on room temperature)
Cooling time: 4 hours
Total time: 12-16 hours (mostly hands-off)
While this might seem lengthy, the active cooking time is minimal, making it perfect for preparing before bed to wake up to fresh yogurt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
Sterilize your Thermomix bowl, spatula, and storage containers by washing with hot, soapy water and rinsing thoroughly. If possible, run a quick steam cycle (Varoma, 10 minutes) to ensure all equipment is bacteria-free. This crucial step eliminates any competing bacteria that could interfere with the fermentation process.
Step 2: Blend The Base Mixture
Add coconut milk, thickener, and optional sweetener to your Thermomix bowl. Mix for 20 seconds at speed 4 to ensure even distribution without incorporating too much air. The consistency should be smooth and uniform, with no visible starch lumps.
Step 3: Heat The Mixture
Heat at 37°C (98.6°F) for 5 minutes at speed 2. This gentle warming activates the thickening agent while preserving the delicate flavors of the coconut. If using tapioca starch, you’ll notice a slight thickening already happening.
Step 4: Add Probiotic Culture
Allow the mixture to cool to 42°C (107.6°F), then add your probiotic capsules (opened) or starter yogurt. Mix at speed 1 for 10 seconds. The mixture should still feel warm to the touch but not hot, as excessive heat will kill the beneficial bacteria.
Step 5: Fermentation
For Batch 1 (Classic): Transfer mixture to sterilized jars, cover with a cloth (not airtight), and let sit in a warm spot (around 30°C/86°F) for 8-12 hours.
For Batch 2 (Thermomix Method): Keep mixture in the Thermomix bowl, set to 42°C for 8 hours at speed 0 (lid on, measuring cup off with cloth covering).
Your kitchen temperature significantly affects fermentation time—warmer environments speed up the process, while cooler rooms may require up to 24 hours.
Step 6: Refrigerate And Set
Once fermented to your desired tanginess, refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set completely. The yogurt will continue to thicken and develop flavor during this time.
Nutritional Information
Per 1/2 cup serving (125g) of plain Thermomix Coconut Yogurt:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 18g (mostly healthy MCTs)
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Calcium: 15mg (6% less than dairy yogurt but enhanced with vitamin absorption)
- Probiotics: 2-10 billion CFU (comparable to commercial probiotic yogurts)
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Transform your basic recipe into these nutrient-boosted variations:
- Protein-Enhanced Batch: Blend in 2 tablespoons of hemp seeds before fermentation to add 6.5g of complete protein.
- Low-Sugar Option: Skip the sweetener and instead add 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste and a sprinkle of cinnamon, which enhances perceived sweetness without adding sugar.
- Gut-Health Booster: Add 1 teaspoon of inulin powder during the initial blend, which serves as a prebiotic to further support the probiotic bacteria.
- Lower-Fat Version: Substitute one can of full-fat coconut milk with light coconut milk, then add 1 tablespoon of coconut butter to maintain creaminess while reducing fat content by approximately 30%.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast Parfait: Layer with homemade granola and seasonal berries
- Savory Option: Use as a dairy-free substitute for Greek yogurt in tzatziki or raita
- Tropical Delight: Top with fresh mango, passion fruit, and toasted coconut flakes
- Dessert Alternative: Serve with a drizzle of dark chocolate and crushed pistachios
Personalize your yogurt experience by adjusting the fermentation time—shorter for milder flavor, longer for tangier results that pair beautifully with sweeter toppings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using low-fat coconut milk only: Results in watery yogurt with poor texture (studies show at least 60% coconut extract is optimal)
- Contaminating your starter: Always use clean utensils to prevent introducing unwanted bacteria
- Over-sweetening before fermentation: Can inhibit bacterial growth; add most sweeteners after fermentation
- Sealing containers tightly during fermentation: Prevents necessary air circulation and may cause pressure buildup
- Disturbing yogurt during fermentation: Reduces thickness by disrupting developing protein structures
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Your homemade Thermomix Coconut Yogurt will maintain peak flavor and probiotic benefits for up to 7 days when stored properly:
- Keep in glass containers rather than plastic (reduces chemical leaching and preserves flavor)
- Store at the back of the refrigerator where temperature remains most consistent
- Avoid repeated exposure to room temperature, which accelerates spoilage
- If separation occurs, simply stir gently before serving
- Freeze in ice cube trays for smoothie additions (though texture will change upon thawing)
Conclusion
Making Thermomix Coconut Yogurt at home revolutionizes how you approach dairy-free alternatives. With just minutes of active preparation, you can create five distinct batches that surpass store-bought options in both flavor and nutritional value. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization while saving approximately 60% compared to premium store brands. Whether you’re fermenting overnight or preparing a week’s worth of breakfasts, this technique delivers consistent results with that signature Thermomix precision. Ready to transform your morning routine? Your journey to creamy, probiotic-rich coconut yogurt starts with your next Thermomix session!
FAQs
Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
Yes! Using coconut cream results in an ultra-thick, Greek yogurt-style product. Reduce the thickener by half and expect an even richer final product.
Why didn’t my yogurt thicken properly?
The most common reasons include using coconut milk with additives, fermenting at too low a temperature, or insufficient fermentation time. Try adding 1/2 teaspoon more thickener next time.
Is homemade coconut yogurt safe?
Absolutely, when proper hygiene practices are followed. The acidification during fermentation creates an environment inhospitable to harmful bacteria.
How can I make my coconut yogurt tangier?
Simply extend the fermentation time by 4-6 hours. The longer the fermentation, the more pronounced the tangy flavor will become.
Can I make this without a Thermomix?
While a Thermomix provides optimal temperature control, you can achieve similar results using a yogurt maker, Instant Pot with yogurt setting, or even a well-wrapped glass container placed in a consistently warm spot.