Can You Freeze Greek Yogurt?

Yes, you can absolutely easily freeze Greek yogurt for upwards of 9 months. Just be aware that one you thaw Greek yogurt the texture will become less creamy and a little more grainy.

How to Freeze Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a thick and creamy yogurt that is delicious to eat plain or with berries or other fruit or toppings added in. Perhaps you have found a fantastic sale at the store and want to stock up, you may need to freeze some to extend the shelf life so it doesn't go bad.

There are multiple ways that you can get your yogurt set up for successful freezing. The first thing you'll want to do before freezing your Greek yogurt is to decide how you will be using it once thawed so that you know the best freezing method.

The methods used are similar to those used when freezing peanut butter, freezing heavy cream and freezing half and half.

Freezing in the container

If you have purchased your Greek yogurt from the store, you may wonder if you can simply freeze it straight in the container you bought it in. The answer is yes, but with a few caveats.

If you want to follow this method, it's best if you've purchased single or individual serving containers. Additionally, it's good to be aware that the store-bought container is not always as airtight as a Pyrex or freezer bag so you should plan to eat these a little sooner.

Lastly, anytime you freeze something that has liquid in it such as yogurt, it will expand as it freezes. For this reason it is important that you give a little headroom of an inch or two in any container that you're freezing a liquid in. Typically, yogurt containers have enough space to accommodate this expansion, but do be aware that there is a chance you're container could bust.

Freezing in an airtight container or freezer bag

Another way you can freeze your Greek yogurt is in an airtight container or freezer bag. To do this:

• Decide what size servings you'll need to defrost. Then, divvy your Greek yogurt up into those proportions.

• Next, spoon your portions of Greek yogurt into either airtight containers or freezer bags.
• If using an airtight container, ensure you leave one to two inches between the top of the yogurt and the lid for room for expansion.

• If using a freezer bag, make sure to squeeze any excess air out of the bag before fully zipping it closed.
• Finally, write the date on your container or bag and pop it into your freezer.

Freezing in an ice cube tray

If you'll be using your Greek yogurt for things like baking or smoothies, it's really easy to freeze it in an ice cube tray.

• To do this, simply take your yogurt and spoon it into the tray compartments. Then, place your tray in the freezer for several hours.
• Once the yogurt is thoroughly frozen, pop your yogurt cubes out of the tray and then place them into an airtight container or freezer bag.
• If using a freezer bag, ensure that you have pressed all of the excess air out of the bag before zipping it shut.
• Go ahead and label the bag or container with the date and then pop your frozen yogurt cubes back into the freezer.

Supplies/Equipment Needed:

• Ziploc Bags
• Plastic Wrap
• Aluminum Foil
• Marker or Pen
• Airtight Freezer Container
• Ice Cube Tray

How to Defrost Greek Yogurt

Defrosting Greek yogurt is relatively easy. All you need to do is remove it from the freezer and pop it into your refrigerator overnight.

Once it's been defrosted, you'll want to vigorously stir the yogurt so that you can help to re-smooth the grainy and separated texture.

If you froze it in small amounts such as an ice cube tray, then you don't need it to go completely overnight as it will only take several hours to defrost. Additionally, if you're using it for baking or smoothies you may not need it defrost it all the way.

If you froze it in a freezer bag, squeeze the defrosted yogurt down into the bottom corner, hold it over a container and snip the end off for easy removal from the bag.

How to Use Thawed Greek Yogurt

Although you can simply eat thawed Greek yogurt like you normally would, with the slight texture changes, some people prefer to use it other than for plain eating. Here are a few ideas:

• adding to smoothies
• for baking
• in dips, spreads or dressings
• as part of soups or casseroles

Freezing Greek Yogurt FAQ

Why does greek yogurt say not to freeze?

Some Greek yogurt may say not to freeze it simply because when it is thawed or defrosted it becomes a little runny and grainy. However, if you're okay with these texture changes it is perfectly safe and fine to freeze your Greek yogurt.

How long does greek yogurt last in the fridge?

Unopened Greek yogurt typically lasts around 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.

Can chobani greek yogurt be frozen?

Yes, chobani Greek yogurt can be frozen just like any other brand of Greek yogurt.

How long can greek yogurt be frozen?

Greek yogurt can be frozen for up to 9 months with the same sort of quality maintained. However, it can be frozen for even longer as long as it is kept in an airtight container just be aware that the quality will degrade over time.

Can you freeze greek yogurt and eat it like ice cream?

Yes, technically you can freeze Greek yogurt and eat it like ice cream. However, it won't be as soft and creamy as store-bought frozen Greek yogurt. So, you may want to allow it to partially thaw before eating it.