Yogurt powder is a convenient way to add protein, probiotics, and creaminess to smoothies. Using yogurt powder is simple – you just need to know how much to use and how to properly incorporate it into your smoothie recipe. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about using yogurt powder in smoothies!
What is yogurt powder?
Yogurt powder, also sometimes called dried yogurt or yogurt flakes, is made by removing the liquid whey from yogurt to leave behind just the protein, fat, and milk solids. The yogurt is then dried into a powdered form. Yogurt powder contains the same probiotics and nutrients as regular yogurt but in a shelf-stable, portable form. It comes in plain and flavored varieties.
The main benefits of yogurt powder include:
- Convenient – Requires no refrigeration and is easier to transport and store than yogurt containers.
- Long shelf life – When stored properly in an airtight container, yogurt powder can last 6-12 months in the pantry.
- Nutrient rich – Provides protein, calcium, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals found in regular yogurt.
- Versatile – Can be used in smoothies, baked goods, dips, dressings, soups, etc.
- Customizable – Allows you to control the tanginess and creaminess by how much you use.
How is yogurt powder different than whey protein powder?
While both yogurt powder and whey protein powder can add protein to smoothies, they differ in a few key ways:
| Yogurt Powder | Whey Protein Powder |
|---|---|
| Contains probiotics | Does not contain probiotics |
| Made from milk | Made from whey, a byproduct of cheesemaking |
| Adds tanginess and creaminess | Adds protein but not much flavor |
| Lower in protein than whey powder | Very high in protein |
While whey powder contains more protein, yogurt powder offers the added benefit of probiotics and a creamy, tangy flavor. Many people enjoy using a combo of both yogurt and whey powders in their smoothies.
How to choose a yogurt powder
When selecting a yogurt powder, you’ll first want to decide between plain or flavored varieties. Popular flavored options include vanilla, strawberry, and mixed berry. Plain yogurt powder provides a more neutral, dairy-forward taste.
You’ll also want to consider:
- Fat content – Choose full fat for a richer, creamier smoothie or low fat for a lighter option.
- Live and active cultures – Check the label for “live and active cultures” to ensure there are probiotics.
- Ingredients – Some contain added sugars, flavors, thickeners, and preservatives, so check the ingredient list if you want a pure option.
- Powder type – Regular yogurt powder works best for smoothies. Some drinking yogurt powders don’t incorporate as well.
How much yogurt powder to use in smoothies
A good starting point is 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt powder per smoothie. You can adjust this amount depending on how tangy and creamy you like your smoothie.
Keep these tips in mind:
- More yogurt powder gives a thicker, creamier texture.
- Too much can make smoothies overly thick and grainy.
- Start with less powder for fruit-based smoothies so the yogurt doesn’t overpower the fruit flavor.
- Use more powder in green or chocolate smoothies that can stand up to the tang.
The serving size on the yogurt powder package can provide a guideline for how much to use. Just keep in mind one serving may be more yogurt than you want in a full smoothie recipe.
Yogurt powder substitution
If you don’t have yogurt powder on hand, here are some substitutes to use:
| Substitute | Ratio |
|---|---|
| Greek yogurt | 1 tablespoon yogurt powder = 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt |
| Regular yogurt | 1 tablespoon yogurt powder = 3 tablespoons regular yogurt |
| Cottage cheese | 1 tablespoon yogurt powder = 2 tablespoons cottage cheese |
| Silken tofu | 1 tablespoon yogurt powder = 1/4 cup silken tofu |
| Sour cream | 1 tablespoon yogurt powder = 2 tablespoons sour cream |
The ratios may need slight adjusting depending on how thick you want your smoothie. And keep in mind that substitutes won’t provide the probiotic benefits of real yogurt powder.
How to use yogurt powder in smoothies
Integrating yogurt powder properly is important for the best smoothie texture. Here are some tips:
- Hydrate it first – Whisk the powder with a bit of milk or water before adding to your smoothie. This prevents clumping.
- Add it early – Add hydrated yogurt powder to your blender near the start for the most even distribution.
- Blend well – Blend for at least 30 seconds to 1 minute after adding yogurt powder to fully incorporate it.
- Use a blender – Hand blenders don’t fully break down yogurt powder. Use a powerful blender for best results.
If you accidentally end up with clumps, you can strain out the clumps after blending or blend for longer to further break them down.
Best fruits and vegetables to pair with yogurt powder
Yogurt powder pairs well with many fruits, vegetables, and other smoothie ingredients. Some top choices include:
Fruits
- Berries – blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, blackberry
- Banana
- Peach
- Mango
- Pineapple
- Cherry
- Pomegranate
- Apple
- Pear
Vegetables
- Spinach
- Kale
- Zucchini
- Avocado
- Carrot
- Beet
Nuts, seeds, and nut butters
- Almonds
- Cashews
- Walnuts
- Pistachios
- Chia seeds
- Flax seeds
- Almond butter
- Cashew butter
- Peanut butter
Proteins
- Greek yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Whey protein powder
- Plant-based protein powder
- Tofu
Grains
- Oats
- Granola
The tanginess of the yogurt powder helps balance out the sweetness of fruits and neutralizes bitter leafy greens. Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients based on your tastes.
Simple yogurt powder smoothie recipes
Here are a few tasty yogurt powder smoothie recipes to help you get started:
Berry yogurt smoothie
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries
- 2 tablespoons yogurt powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave (optional)
Piña colada smoothie
- 1 cup light coconut milk
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 tablespoon yogurt powder
- 1/4 cup ice
Green yogurt smoothie
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/2 banana
- Handful spinach
- 2 tablespoons yogurt powder
- 1 date or dash of honey
Chocolate peanut butter smoothie
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1-2 tablespoons yogurt powder
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Get creative and come up with your own yogurt powder smoothie combos!
Storing and shelf life of yogurt powder
To get the longest shelf life out of yogurt powder:
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
- Keep away from heat, moisture, and humidity.
- Scoop out with a clean, dry spoon rather than repeatedly dipping wet utensils into the powder.
- Write the purchase or open date on the container.
- Use within 6-12 months for best flavor and probiotic activity.
- Freeze for even longer storage of up to 1-2 years.
Properly stored, yogurt powder retains its nutrients and probiotic cultures well past the best by date. However, its tangy flavor can fade over time.
Benefits of using yogurt powder in smoothies
Adding yogurt powder to your smoothies provides several benefits:
- Protein – Yogurt provides a protein boost to help keep you full.
- Probiotics – The live active cultures support your gut and immune health.
- Creaminess – Yogurt powder gives smoothies a thick, milkshake-like texture.
- Tangy flavor – Plain yogurt powder provides a nice tart taste that balances sweet and bitter notes.
- Versatility – Flavored yogurt powders let you create sweet or tart smoothies.
- Nutrients – Yogurt provides calcium, B vitamins, magnesium, and more.
Enjoy yogurt powder as a nutritional upgrade to your daily smoothie routine!
Potential downsides of yogurt powder in smoothies
Yogurt powder has many benefits, but a few potential downsides to keep in mind include:
- Added sugars in flavored varieties – Stick to plain for the healthiest option.
- Easy to use too much – Excess can make smoothies gloopy and negatively impact the flavor.
- Contains dairy – Not suitable for vegans or the dairy intolerant.
- Possible protein grittiness – Drink smoothies soon after blending for best texture.
- Adds calories – Account for the extra calories when adding yogurt powder.
Despite a few drawbacks, yogurt powder remains a tasty, nutritious addition to smoothies for most people.
FAQs
Can you add yogurt powder directly to smoothies?
It’s best to mix yogurt powder with a small amount of liquid first before adding it to your smoothie ingredients. This prevents clumping and helps it incorporate more smoothly.
Do you need to refrigerate yogurt powder after opening?
Refrigeration is not necessary to preserve dried yogurt powder after opening thanks to its low moisture content. Properly stored in an airtight container in the pantry, yogurt powder keeps well at room temperature.
Does yogurt powder curdle in hot drinks?
Yes, yogurt powder can curdle when added directly to hot liquids. For hot drinks like coffee or tea, it’s best to stir in yogurt powder after cooling the beverage slightly.
Can yogurt powder be used to make frozen yogurt?
Yes! Plain or flavored yogurt powder whisked into heavy cream, milk, or coconut milk makes an easy homemade frozen yogurt. Allow to chill in the freezer until frozen.
Do you need to add a liquid to yogurt powder in baked goods?
In most baked good recipes, you can swap in yogurt powder directly for the yogurt without needing to hydrate it first since there is enough moisture in the batter.
Conclusion
Yogurt powder is an easy way to give your smoothies a nutritional boost of protein, probiotics, vitamins, and creaminess. Use 1-2 tablespoons per smoothie, whisk it first with milk or water, and blend well to prevent clumping. Pair it with fruits, veggies, nuts, and protein sources of your choice. Store yogurt powder properly to retain its freshness. With so many benefits, yogurt powder can level up just about any homemade smoothie.
