Last Updated on August 8, 2024 by Our Editors
Done with dairy, but still want yogurt cups in your daily diet? That’s possible with plant-based, dairy-free yogurt. Perfect for vegans, people with, lactose intolerance, or anyone just looking to shake up their diet, this tasty and healthy snack is perfect addition to your diet.
The market is now flush with dairy-free yogurt brands that are as creamy and delicious as their dairy alternatives. We’re compiled a list of top 9 brands that stand out in flavor, texture, and overall quality.
Whether you’re new to the world of plant-based alternatives, or a seasoned connoisseur, there’s something for every one here. Ready to find your new fridge staple? Come along.
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9 Best Dairy-Free Yogurt Brands (2024 Version)
When we tasked ourselves to pick the best dairy-free yogurt brand, we wanted to make sure that our list includes options that aren’t too high in sugar (because we certainly don’t want that early morning glucose spike), and fulfill as many nutritional requirements as animal-based yogurts do.
Here’s what we landed on:
Yoplait’s Oui is a standout in dairy-free yogurts because of its “can’t-believe-it’s-not-dairy” smoothness and ideal thickness that’ll win over any traditional yogurt aficionado. Despite the coconut base, the flavors hit just right without one flavor overwhelming the other, and a very straightforward ingredient list.
Available across the United States, Yoplait’s vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and tree nut-free range of products cater to a variety of dietary needs.
Sweetened yogurt isn’t exactly a universal preference, and that’s why we selected the best unsweetened yogurt for you. Kite Hill’s plain almond milk yogurt has a rich, thick texture and a scent reminiscent of traditional dairy yogurt. It’s ideal as a base for non-dairy tzatziki or other savory sauces.
We also found it equally effective as a sour cream substitute, thanks to its non-sweet profile. For those seeking a highly adaptable, plain almond milk yogurt, Kite Hill stands out as a top choice.
Silk’s Dairy-Free Yogurt Alternative, made from non-GMO soymilk, is a powerhouse of natural nutrients and has the highest protein count without adding any artificial proteins. Its smooth consistency and satisfyingly sweet taste with a slight tang closely mimic traditional dairy yogurt.
While flavored varieties are available in single-serve cups, those preferring less sugar can opt for the Plain variety available in larger tubs.
So Delicious’ yogurt range is made from organic coconut milk and fortified with essential nutrients for the no-fuss shoppers. It comes in a variety of choices easily found on shelves. Vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and tree nut-free, they offer options for nearly every dietary need, with specifics on ingredients and nutritional facts readily available.
Their unsweetened varieties, available in large tubs, prove to be quite adaptable in various recipes. A popular favorite are the newer ‘Pairings,’ which come with crunchy toppings for a delightful treat.
Siggi’s offers a sumptuous alternative for those who love the thickness of Greek yogurt or skyr but need a dairy-free option. Their Vanilla & Cinnamon blend is luxuriously dense and creamy, with a hint of tang—though less so than others on this list.
This yogurt shines in versatility and flavor, particularly when enhanced with diced fruit and pecan crumbles. While the Mixed Berry flavor is a hit, the Vanilla Cinnamon stands out as both more delicious and adaptable.
We’re a fan of Cocojune’s smooth and creamy yogurt that comes with a subtle coconut flavor. Other range of flavors include chamomile, the delightful vanilla, strawberry rhubarb.
However, exploring Cocojune’s range seems fail-safe—each flavor consistently delivers a genuine yogurt experience, making it a top pick for those seeking the best in dairy-free indulgence.
Sprouts’ Plain Unsweetened Vegan Yogurt offers a subtler take on the typical coconut flavor. Fans of a milder taste will appreciate this variation, which still delivers on the coconut essence but without overwhelming the palate.
The taste feels like biting into a cloud, but in the best possible way. This light, heavenly textured yogurt shines as a perfect base for a breakfast parfait, ideally paired with fresh berries and a sweet drizzle of agave.
Culina Plant-Based Yogurt uses coconut meat to achieve a luxuriously rich finish while keeping sugar content low. More than just a yogurt, Culina offers a culinary adventure with unique flavors like Blueberry Lavender, Strawberry Rose, and Mango Orange Blossom.
Made from a full-fat organic coconut base, this yogurt caters to foodies looking for a gourmet twist to their breakfast. It’s also free from gluten and soy, making it a delightful choice for vegans seeking both health benefits and innovative taste profiles.
We especially like this brand because it’s one of the first dairy-free “India-Style” yogurt in the U.S. markets. It’s cultivated slowly, through a process that not only enhances its richness but also boosts its probiotic levels significantly.
The yogurt scores highly in terms of taste, and offers a creamy texture that closely mimics traditional dairy yogurts, which is a notable achievement for a plant-based product.
What Makes Dairy-Free Yogurt Better For You?
Dairy-free is leagues ahead and far better than its dairy-based counterparts. As per Medical News Today, plant-based yogurts have lower amounts of higher fiber content, without the villainous glucose spike. Here are all the reasons why dairy-free yogurt is better for you.
Variety of Nutrients: Dairy-free yogurts are often fortified with vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, which are essential for maintaining bone health and overall well-being. Some varieties also contain probiotics, which can promote gut health.
From the base ingredients like almond, coconut, soy, and oats, to the environmental and health benefits, here’s a closer look at what sets these yogurts apart:
Lactose-Free: Dairy-free yogurt is devoid of lactose, making it suitable for individuals who are lactose intolerant. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks the enzyme lactase, which is necessary to digest lactose, the sugar found in dairy products. Consuming lactose when you’re intolerant to it can lead to digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Allergen-Free: Dairy-free yogurt is free from common allergens like milk protein (casein) and whey, making it a safer option for people with dairy allergies or sensitivities.
Vegan-Friendly: Since dairy-free yogurt is made from plant-based ingredients such as soy, almond, coconut, or oat milk, it is suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle or those who prefer to avoid animal products.
Lower in Saturated Fat: Depending on the type of plant milk used, dairy-free yogurt may be lower in saturated fat compared to traditional dairy yogurt. For example, almond and oat milk yogurt typically have lower saturated fat content compared to yogurt made from whole milk.
Variety of Nutrients: Dairy-free yogurts are often fortified with vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, which are essential for maintaining bone health and overall well-being. Some varieties also contain probiotics, which can promote gut health.
How to Choose the Right Dairy-Free Yogurt for You
When browsing the yogurt aisle, the variety of dairy-free options can be overwhelming. Here’s how to narrow down your choices to find the perfect match for your dietary preferences and nutritional needs:
Consider the Base: Different plant bases offer different nutritional profiles and flavors. Almond milk yogurt is typically lower in calories and fat but also lower in protein. Coconut milk yogurt is rich and creamy, ideal for those looking for a texture similar to traditional dairy yogurt but tends to be higher in saturated fats.
Dietary Restrictions and Allergies: Always check labels for potential allergens. If you have a nut allergy, steer clear of almond and cashew yogurts. Soy allergies mean avoiding soy-based options.
Nutritional Content: Look for yogurts that are fortified with essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, which might be lacking in a vegan diet. Also, consider the sugar content—some flavored yogurts can be high in added sugars.
Probiotic Benefits: If gut health is a concern, ensure your choice includes live active cultures. The packaging should list probiotic strains like Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium.
Texture and Flavor Preferences: Some prefer thick and creamy yogurts, while others may enjoy a lighter texture. Flavor options range from plain to exotic fruits or even chocolate and coffee. Starting with a plain version can be a great base for adding your own flavors.
How to Enjoy Dairy-Free Yogurt
Dairy-free yogurt isn’t just for breakfast. The versatility of this product makes it a fantastic ingredient in a variety of dishes:
Smoothies and Smoothie Bowls: Blend dairy-free yogurt with fruits, nuts, seeds, or greens for a nutritious smoothie, or thicken it up for a spoonable smoothie bowl topped with granola and fresh fruit.
Dressings and Dips: Mix dairy-free yogurt with herbs, spices, lemon juice, or vinegar to create creamy dressings for salads or dips for veggies and chips.
Desserts: Use it in baking to add moisture to cakes and muffins, or freeze it to make fro-yo. Layer it with fruits and granola for a delightful parfait or blend it with fruit and freeze in popsicle molds for a healthy treat.
Alternative to Sour Cream: Top your tacos, soups, and baked potatoes with a dollop of plain dairy-free yogurt as a lactose-free alternative to sour cream.
Summing Up!
Navigating the world of dairy-free yogurt can be a delicious journey, and with so many exceptional options, you’re bound to find a favorite. Whether you’re looking for an allergen-friendly option or just want to try something new, these top brands offer something for everyone.
One of the things we enjoy the most is a rich, creamy breakfast of dairy-free yogurt and granola. You should probably try it too! Get it here now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is dairy-free yogurt?
Dairy-free yogurt is a type of yogurt that is made without any dairy ingredients. It is typically made from plant-based alternatives like almond, coconut, soy, or oat milk. These alternatives are fermented with cultures similar to those used in traditional dairy yogurt to achieve a similar texture and taste.
What are some popular types of dairy-free yogurt?
Some popular types of dairy-free yogurt include dairy-free Greek yogurt, which is a thicker, creamier version made typically from plant-based milk and sometimes additional thickening agents. Coconut yogurt is another type, known for its creamy texture and slight tropical flavor. Other common types include almond yogurt, soy yogurt, and oat yogurt.
Is Greek yogurt dairy-free?
Greek yogurt is traditionally made from dairy milk and is not dairy-free. However, dairy-free versions of Greek yogurt are available which use plant-based ingredients to mimic the thick, creamy texture of traditional Greek yogurt.
Does dairy-free yogurt have probiotics?
Yes, most dairy-free yogurts contain live probiotic cultures, similar to traditional dairy yogurts. Always check the packaging to ensure that it mentions live and active cultures to get the probiotic benefits.
