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Kefir grains resting in a metal strainer over a glass jar filled with fermenting milk kefir.

How To Make Milk Kefir: Our Easiest Milk Kefir Recipe


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  • Author: Papa Mason
  • Total Time: 24 hours (fermentation)
  • Yield: 2 cups 1x

Description

Learn how to make homemade milk kefir a creamy, probiotic-rich drink that boosts gut health, supports digestion, and strengthens immunity. This simple step-by-step guide walks you through fermenting milk kefir from scratch, with tips for flavoring, storing, and maintaining your kefir grains.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons active milk kefir grains
  • 2 cups fresh milk (cow or goat)
  • Optional: kefir starter kit for beginners

Instructions

  1. Pour milk into a clean glass jar and add kefir grains. Stir gently with a non-metal utensil.
  2. Cover the jar with a breathable cloth and secure it with a rubber band.
  3. Let the mixture ferment at room temperature (68–85°F) for 12–24 hours until slightly thickened and tangy.
  4. Strain the kefir through a nylon or stainless-steel mesh strainer into another jar, separating the grains from the liquid.
  5. Transfer the finished kefir to a sealed glass jar and refrigerate. Reuse the grains immediately for your next batch.
  6. Taste and adjust fermentation time in future batches for your preferred flavor and consistency.

Notes

Use only non-metal tools to protect the kefir grains. Avoid ultra-pasteurized milk. Adjust fermentation time based on your room temperature. You can flavor your kefir after straining with fruit puree, vanilla, or honey. For thicker kefir, use full-fat milk or ferment longer.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Fermented
  • Cuisine: Probiotic

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg