Creamy, Smooth, and Easy to Make at Home

Homemade yogurt, known as Lait Caillé in many West African countries, is a creamy, naturally fermented dairy favorite enjoyed by families for generations. Made with milk powder, yogurt culture, and a few simple ingredients, this recipe produces a rich, smooth yogurt that can be enjoyed plain, sweetened, or flavored with fruits and syrups.

Whether served chilled for breakfast, enjoyed as a refreshing snack, or frozen into homemade yogurt pops, this recipe is simple, economical, and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 kg whole milk powder
• 500 g granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 container (about 125 g) plain yogurt with live active cultures
• 1 small can (354 ml / 12 oz) unsweetened evaporated milk
• 2 packets vanilla sugar or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 liters water, divided

Instructions

1. Heat 1.5 liters of water until hot, but do not let it boil.
2. In a large bowl or pot, pour the remaining 1.5 liters of cool water.
3. Gradually whisk the milk powder into the cool water until completely dissolved and smooth.
4. Slowly pour the hot water into the milk mixture while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
5. Add the plain yogurt and the unsweetened evaporated milk. Mix well until fully incorporated.
6. Cover the container tightly, then wrap it with a clean towel to help retain warmth.
7. Place the container in a warm place in your home and allow it to ferment for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.
8. Once the fermentation is complete, the mixture will have thickened into homemade yogurt.
9. Stir gently until smooth.
10. Add the sugar, vanilla sugar (or vanilla extract), and ground nutmeg. Mix until the sugar has completely dissolved.
11. If desired, strain the yogurt through a fine-mesh sieve for an extra-smooth texture.
12. Refrigerate until well chilled before serving.

Flavor Variations

Create different flavors by adding:

• Strawberry syrup
• Mint syrup
• Mango purée
• Passion fruit purée
• Coconut extract
• Caramel syrup

Mix well after adding your preferred flavoring.

Make Homemade Frozen Yogurt

This homemade yogurt is also perfect for making frozen treats.

Pour the yogurt into:

• Popsicle molds
• Yogurt tubes (sachets)
• Small cups with wooden sticks

Freeze until firm and enjoy a refreshing homemade frozen yogurt.

Tips

• Use plain yogurt with live active cultures, as it provides the bacteria needed to ferment the milk.
• Keep the mixture warm during fermentation. If your kitchen is cool, the yogurt may need more than 8 hours to thicken.
• Do not boil the water, as excessive heat can damage the yogurt cultures.
• Adjust the sugar to suit your taste.
• Chill well before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Yield

Approximately 4 liters of homemade yogurt (16–20 servings)

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before serving if any natural separation occurs.

Homemade yogurt can also be frozen into pops or yogurt sachets for a delicious frozen dessert.