Homemade Dannon Whole Milk Strawberry Banana Yogurt Recipe: Creamy, Dreamy, and Customizable

Category: yogurt

Introduction

Dannon Whole Milk Strawberry Banana Yogurt is a beloved favorite for many, offering a creamy texture, sweet flavor, and the perfect balance of tangy yogurt with ripe strawberries and bananas. First introduced in the early 2000s, this yogurt quickly became a staple in refrigerators across the country, thanks to its delicious taste and convenience. Fans of the original love how it combines the natural sweetness of strawberries and bananas with the richness of whole milk, creating a treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

But why make it at home? For one, homemade yogurt allows you to control the ingredients, reducing added sugars and preservatives while enhancing the flavor. It’s also cost-effective and customizable—want more banana flavor? Add an extra one! Prefer it less sweet? Use less honey or try alternative sweeteners. Plus, making yogurt at home can be a fun and rewarding process that brings you closer to the food you eat.

I remember discovering my love for yogurt as a child, sneaking cups from the fridge and savoring the creamy texture and fruity flavors. When I learned how to make it at home, I was thrilled to replicate my favorite store-bought varieties with even better taste and nutrition. This recipe for homemade Dannon Whole Milk Strawberry Banana Yogurt brings back those nostalgic memories while offering a healthier, more personalized twist.

Why Make It at Home?

Making yogurt at home gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to:

• Reduce added sugars.
• Use fresher, higher-quality fruit.
• Customize the flavor to your liking.
• Save money in the long run.
• Avoid preservatives and artificial additives found in some commercial yogurts.

Personal Anecdote

I grew up on store-bought yogurt, but when I started making it at home, I realized how much better it could be. The first time I tasted my homemade version of Dannon’s Strawberry Banana Yogurt, I was amazed at how much fresher and creamier it was compared to the store-bought kind. My kids devoured it in one day, and it’s since become a staple in our household.

Recipe Details

**Prep Time:10 minutes
**Cook Time:5 minutes
**Total Time:4 hours 10 minutes (includes incubation)
**Yield:4 servings (1 cup each)

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 quart (960ml) whole milk (preferably organic or grass-fed)
• 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup (60g) honey or maple syrup (optional, for reduced sugar)
• 1/2 cup (120g) plain whole milk yogurt with live cultures (store-bought or previous batch)

Fruit and Flavor:

• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and pureed
• 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract

Instructions

• Heat the Milk: Pour the whole milk into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it reaches 180°F (82°C) to 185°F (85°C). Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
• Cool the Milk: Let the milk cool to 110°F (43°C) to 120°F (49°C). This is the ideal temperature for adding the yogurt culture.
• Add the Starter: Once the milk has cooled, whisk in the store-bought yogurt or previous batch of homemade yogurt. This introduces the live cultures that will ferment the milk.
• Incubate: Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or yogurt maker. Incubate at 100°F (38°C) to 110°F (43°C) for 4 to 6 hours, or until it reaches your desired thickness.
• Chill: Once set, refrigerate the yogurt for at least 2 hours to chill and firm up.
• Prepare the Fruit: While the yogurt is chilling, mix the mashed banana and strawberry puree in a small bowl. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
• Combine: Once the yogurt is chilled, gently fold in the strawberry-banana mixture until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can thin out the yogurt.
• Serve: Spoon into individual cups and enjoy!

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use only 2 tbsp (30g) of honey or maple syrup for a less sweet yogurt.
• Vegan Version: Replace the dairy milk with a plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, or coconut) and use a vegan yogurt starter.
• Extra Creamy: Add 1/4 cup (60g) of heavy cream or half-and-half to the milk for an even richer texture.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Fruit: For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh strawberries and bananas. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and pat dry before pureeing.
• Don’t Over-Stir: After adding the fruit, mix gently to avoid thinning the yogurt.
• Customize the Sweetness: Taste the fruit mixture before adding it to the yogurt and adjust the sweetness to your preference.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh fruit instead of pureed?
  Yes! For a chunkier texture, fold in diced strawberries and banana instead of pureeing them.

• What if I don’t have a yogurt maker?
  You can incubate the yogurt in your oven with the light on or in a thermally insulated container wrapped in towels.

• How long does homemade yogurt last?
  Homemade yogurt typically lasts 5 to 7 days in the fridge. It will thicken further as it chills.

• Can I scale this recipe?
  Yes! Simply double or triple the ingredients as needed.

• Is this recipe suitable for babies or toddlers?
  Yes, as long as they are comfortable with dairy. The whole milk and live cultures are great for their development.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast Boost: Top with granola, nuts, or seeds for a hearty breakfast.
• Snack Time: Serve as a quick, healthy snack on its own or paired with fresh fruit.
• Smoothie Base: Blend with spinach, almond butter, or honey for a nutrient-packed smoothie.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Dannon Whole Milk Strawberry Banana Yogurt is a game-changer for anyone who loves the original but wants more control over the ingredients. With its creamy texture, fresh flavor, and customizable options, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Plus, it’s healthier, cost-effective, and fun to make. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch!