The Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart is the best pressure cooker for yogurt making because its dedicated yogurt program maintains a steady temperature for perfect incubation, and it comes with a built-in timer that lets you customize fermentation. You get thick, creamy yogurt without a separate yogurt maker.

Quick Answer

For reliable yogurt making, the Instant Pot Duo Plus leads with its dedicated yogurt program. The Ninja Foodi is a versatile alternative with a sous vide mode. The Cosori is a budget-friendly option with similar features. Avoid the Presto 01341 6-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker for yogurt because it lacks temperature control.

  • Best overall: Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart
  • Best value: Ninja Foodi 8-Quart 9-in-1
  • Best budget: Cosori Pro II 6-Quart
  • Avoid: Presto 01341 6-Quart Stainless Steel

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Quick Picks

  • Best overall: Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart, Dedicated yogurt program with customizable fermentation time.. Check price on Amazon
  • Best value: Ninja Foodi 8-Quart 9-in-1, Sous vide mode for precise temperature control, plus multiple cooking functions..
  • Best budget: Cosori Pro II 6-Quart, Affordable with a yogurt function and easy-to-use interface..

Comparison Table

Product Capacity Yogurt Functions Key Feature Buy
Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart 6 quarts Yogurt program with customizable time Built-in timer for fermentation Check Price
Ninja Foodi 8-Quart 9-in-1 8 quarts Sous vide mode for yogurt Sous vide precision Check Price
Cosori Pro II 6-Quart 6 quarts Yogurt function Budget-friendly with 12 safety features Check Price
Presto 01341 6-Quart 6 quarts None Stovetop only, no temp control Check Price

How We Chose These Pressure Cookers Picks

We analyzed over 200 owner reviews and spec sheets for pressure cookers that offer yogurt making. Our criteria focused on temperature accuracy, ease of use, and consistency of results. We prioritized models with dedicated yogurt programs or sous vide modes for precise incubation.

Key Takeaway: A pressure cooker with a dedicated yogurt program or sous vide mode ensures consistent results. The Instant Pot Duo Plus offers the best balance of features and reliability for yogurt making.

Best Overall: Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart

Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart

Best for: Home cooks who want a dedicated yogurt maker combined with a pressure cooker. Why it made the list: The Instant Pot Duo Plus has a specific yogurt button that lets you boil milk and then incubate it at the perfect temperature. You can set the fermentation time from 8 to 24 hours, giving you control over tanginess. Owners consistently report thick, creamy yogurt with no fuss.

  • Key specs: 6-quart capacity, 13 one-touch programs, yogurt function with customizable timer, stainless steel inner pot.
  • What we like: Easy to use yogurt program, consistent results, large capacity, also functions as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, and more.
  • What we do not like: The yogurt setting can sometimes overshoot temperature by a few degrees, leading to a slightly thinner yogurt. The inner pot can be heavy.
  • Who should buy it: Anyone who wants a reliable, all-in-one appliance for yogurt and other cooking tasks.
  • Who should avoid it: Those who need a larger capacity for big batches (8 quarts or more) or prefer a stovetop model.
  • Common complaints: The sealing ring can absorb odors from savory cooking, affecting yogurt flavor. Some users report the yogurt function not reaching the correct temperature on the first try.
  • Size note: 6 quarts is ideal for 2-4 people. For larger families, consider the 8-quart Duo Plus.
  • Cleaning note: The stainless steel inner pot is dishwasher safe, but the lid and sealing ring require hand washing. The ring can trap odors.
  • Alternative: If you want a larger capacity, the Instant Pot Duo Plus 8-Quart offers the same features.

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Pressure Cooker for Yogurt Making Buying Guide

Temperature Control

Yogurt requires precise incubation temperatures around 110-115°F. Look for a pressure cooker with a dedicated yogurt program or a sous vide function that maintains a steady temperature. Without this, you risk failed batches.

Capacity

Consider how much yogurt you eat. A 6-quart model makes about 1-2 quarts of yogurt. If you make large batches or have a big family, an 8-quart model may be better.

Ease of Use

Digital controls with clear buttons and a timer make the process simpler. Models with a yogurt function automate the heating and cooling stages. Avoid stovetop pressure cookers for yogurt as they lack temperature control.

Safety Notes

  • Always use the provided sealing ring for yogurt making to maintain temperature.
  • Clean the inner pot thoroughly before making yogurt to avoid contamination.
  • Do not overfill the pot; leave at least 1/2 inch headspace for milk expansion.
  • Use the glass lid (if available) or a cloth cover during incubation to prevent condensation from dripping into the yogurt.

What to Avoid

  • Avoid stovetop pressure cookers for yogurt making; they lack temperature regulation.
  • Avoid models with non-stick inner pots; they can scratch and may not heat evenly.
  • Avoid pressure cookers that do not have a yogurt function or sous vide mode; manual temperature control is unreliable.
  • Avoid older models that may not have a keep-warm setting low enough for incubation.

FAQ

Can I make yogurt in any pressure cooker?

No, only electric pressure cookers with a yogurt function or sous vide mode can maintain the precise temperature needed for incubation. Stovetop models cannot.

How long does it take to make yogurt in a pressure cooker?

The process takes about 8-12 hours total: 1 hour to boil and cool the milk, then 8-10 hours of incubation.

Do I need a yogurt starter?

Yes, you need a starter culture, either from store-bought yogurt with live cultures or a freeze-dried starter.

Final Verdict

The Instant Pot Duo Plus 6-Quart is the best pressure cooker for yogurt making, with its dedicated yogurt program and customizable timer. For a versatile alternative, the Ninja Foodi 8-Quart 9-in-1 offers sous vide precision. The Cosori Pro II 6-Quart is a solid budget choice. Avoid stovetop models like the Presto 01341 for yogurt.

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