10 Best Yogurt Machines 2026 in the United States

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to serve multiple functions, including yogurt making. With a 3-quart capacity, it is suitable for smaller families or individuals who enjoy meal prepping. One of its standout features is the 13 customizable Smart Programs, which include a dedicated setting for yogurt, making it easy to prepare homemade yogurt with just a touch of a button. The pressure cooker also allows for fast cooking, up to 70% quicker than traditional methods, or slow cooking for more traditional recipes.

The stainless-steel inner pot is food-grade and dishwasher safe, ensuring easy cleanup after use. However, it lacks dedicated jars for yogurt, which might limit batch variety or convenience for some users. The safety features, including overheat protection and a safe-locking lid, add peace of mind during cooking.

Additional features include a free app with over 1900 recipes, making it a handy tool for those looking to explore more culinary options beyond yogurt. This appliance is ideal for those who value multifunctionality and convenience in their kitchen gadgets. While it excels in versatility and ease of cleaning, the lack of specific yogurt jars and limited capacity might be a drawback for larger households or those who prefer making yogurt in bulk.

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is a versatile kitchen appliance that excels in multiple cooking functions, making it a strong candidate for anyone looking to make yogurt at home. The 6-quart capacity is generous enough for family-sized batches or meal prep, which is a definite plus if you enjoy cooking in larger quantities. With the dedicated yogurt maker function, users can take advantage of precise temperature control, essential for culturing yogurt properly. The inclusion of a timer allows for convenience, enabling you to set it and forget it, which is great for busy lifestyles.

Cleaning is straightforward, as the stainless steel design is fingerprint-resistant and both the inner pot and lid are dishwasher-safe, making it easy to maintain. This is particularly appealing for those who may find cleaning a hassle after cooking.

However, while the Instant Pot offers numerous features, it might be a bit overwhelming for those who are not very tech-savvy. The variety of buttons and programs, though customizable, could take some time to learn for new users. Also, the yogurt-making function requires you to monitor the fermentation time, which may not suit everyone’s needs for hands-off cooking.

One of the standout benefits is the free Instant Brands Connect App, which provides access to over 800 recipes, including yogurt. This feature can inspire creativity in the kitchen.

The Instant Pot RIO is a multi-functional cooker that includes a yogurt making feature among its seven capabilities. With a 6-quart capacity, it can cater to a family or meal prepping individuals, making it a versatile kitchen tool. The timer and temperature control are part of its advanced control panel, ensuring your yogurt is made just right.

Cleaning is made easier with a fingerprint-resistant exterior and dishwasher-safe components, which is a significant plus for busy households. The jar type isn't specified, but the stainless-steel inner pot with a tri-ply bottom provides even heating, ideal for consistent yogurt production. Additionally, the device includes various safety features, from overheat protection to a safe-locking lid, adding peace of mind during use.

Its primary drawback as a yogurt machine is that it might be overkill for someone only interested in making yogurt, given its plethora of other functions. The 12-pound weight and relatively large size might be cumbersome for smaller kitchens or those with limited storage space. The Instant Pot RIO is best suited for those looking for a multi-functional appliance that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, including yogurt making, but might not be ideal for someone seeking a dedicated yogurt maker.