Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt from Pinkberry features creamy, tangy yogurt infused with aromatic vanilla bean specks, delivering a smooth and refreshing dessert with a subtle sweetness and velvety texture.
Equipments
- Ice cream/frozen yogurt machine
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Fine mesh strainer
- Freezer-safe storage container
- Small knife (for splitting vanilla bean)
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (or 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Using high-quality vanilla bean paste or fresh vanilla beans is essential to achieve the authentic flavor and aroma characteristic of Pinkberry's Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt. Make sure to properly split and scrape the vanilla bean if using fresh pods to maximize the infusion of vanilla specks in your mixture. Using whole milk instead of low-fat or skim milk helps create a richer, creamier texture that closely mimics the original dessert. Be precise with your measurements, especially for sugar, to balance the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the subtle sweetness. Your finished Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt from Pinkberry copycat menu will have a smooth, velvety texture with well-balanced vanilla flavor that's both refreshing and indulgent.
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, whole milk, and granulated sugar until sugar is dissolved.
- Add vanilla bean paste (or scraped seeds from vanilla bean) and vanilla extract to the mixture, whisk to combine.
- Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into another bowl to ensure smoothness.
- Cover and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or until very cold).
- Assemble and prepare the ice cream/frozen yogurt machine according to manufacturer instructions.
- Pour the chilled yogurt mixture into the ice cream/frozen yogurt machine.
- Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until the mixture reaches soft-serve consistency (usually 20–25 minutes).
- Transfer the frozen yogurt to a freezer-safe storage container using a rubber spatula.
- Smooth the top, cover, and freeze for at least 2 hours for a firmer texture.
- Serve with a spoon.
Substitution
You can substitute Greek yogurt with full-fat plain yogurt for a slightly less tangy but equally creamy base when making Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt from Pinkberry at home. If you don't have a vanilla bean or vanilla bean paste, increasing the pure vanilla extract to 2 teaspoons can help maintain the dessert's signature aromatic flavor. Whole milk may be replaced with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option, but this might result in a slightly different texture. Using granulated sugar is essential for balancing tartness, though honey or agave syrup can work as natural sweeteners, keeping in mind they may alter the final taste. Make sure to chill the mixture thoroughly before churning to achieve the creamiest consistency in your ice cream/frozen yogurt machine.
Tips
When splitting the vanilla bean, use a small knife to carefully scrape out the seeds without wasting the pod, as the seeds contain the most flavor. Straining the mixture through a fine mesh strainer is essential to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture in your frozen yogurt. Make sure the yogurt mixture is thoroughly chilled before churning; this helps the ice cream machine work efficiently and produces better consistency. When transferring the churned yogurt to a container, use a rubber spatula to scrape every bit and avoid mixing in excess air, which can affect texture and density.
Nutritions
Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt from Pinkberry offers a nutritious dessert rich in protein and probiotics thanks to the Greek yogurt base, which supports digestive health and muscle repair. The inclusion of whole milk adds calcium and vitamin D essential for bone strength, while the moderate sugar content provides a subtle sweetness without excessive calories. Vanilla bean paste and extract contribute antioxidants and natural flavor compounds, enhancing the sensory experience without added artificial ingredients. When you choose this frozen yogurt, you enjoy a balance of creamy texture and nutritional benefits ideal for a guilt-free treat.
Storage
Store your Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it is tightly covered to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness. For optimal texture, allow the frozen yogurt to harden in the freezer for at least 2 hours before serving. When ready to enjoy again, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easy scooping.
Variation or Alternatives
For a dairy-free alternative, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut milk yogurt and whole milk with unsweetened almond milk to maintain creaminess and tanginess. You can replace granulated sugar with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetness that complements the vanilla flavor. Instead of vanilla bean paste, using vanilla powder or an extra teaspoon of pure vanilla extract can simplify preparation without compromising the rich aroma. You might also experiment with adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the vanilla notes and balance the sweetness in your frozen yogurt.
Allergies
Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt from Pinkberry contains dairy ingredients such as plain Greek yogurt and whole milk, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies. The inclusion of vanilla bean and vanilla extract is generally safe but could cause sensitivity in rare cases. If you have dairy allergies, consult your healthcare provider before enjoying this dessert.
Why this recipe?
Pinkberry's Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt stands out for its rich, creamy texture and authentic vanilla bean flavor made from real Madagascar vanilla pods. The balance of tartness and sweetness creates a refreshing dessert that appeals to health-conscious consumers seeking a low-fat, probiotic-rich treat. Crafting a copycat version allows you to enjoy this premium taste at home while customizing toppings to suit your preferences. This combination of quality ingredients and personalized options makes it a favorite among frozen yogurt enthusiasts.