Can acidophilus milk be used in cooking and baking?

Can you cook with acidophilus milk?

Yes. Utah State University Extension says cultured acidophilus milk can be substituted for milk, or thickened into a yogurt alternative, and publishes a creamy mac and cheese that uses it as the base. Sweet acidophilus milk, sold like regular milk, can generally be used the same way.

What happens to the cultures?

Probiotics are live microorganisms, and cooking heat is expected to kill them. Baked or simmered dishes therefore give you the flavor and creaminess of the milk, not live bacteria. If you want the cultures, use it cold, for example in smoothies, dressings or poured over finished dishes.

How to use it in recipes

• Sauces and soups: add gently over low heat, and stir in toward the end. USU’s mac and cheese recipe adds extra acidophilus milk 1/4 cup at a time if the liquid is low.
• Pancakes, waffles, muffins and cakes: use it in place of milk. The cultured version is tangier and thicker, so thin it with a little regular milk if the batter is too stiff.
• Overnight oats and smoothies: use it cold and unheated.

Tips to avoid problems

• Sour dairy can separate when boiled hard. Keep heat low and stir.
• Use fat level to match the recipe: skim gives a thinner result than whole.
• Use within a week for homemade cultured milk, per USU.

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