What Is Dry Yogurt, TikTok's Latest Breakfast Obsession?

TikTok has a knack for turning simple snacks into viral obsessions: from cucumbers to spicy pickled garlic, and now onion boils. The newest craze taking over the platform? Dry yogurt.

Despite the odd name, dry yogurt is simply yogurt that's had its water strained out, leaving behind a thicker, creamier texture similar to soft cheese. Naturally, TikTok users have taken this and run with it, creating vibrant, topping-filled dry yogurt bowls that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

But is dry yogurt actually healthy? And how does it stack up against regular yogurt? Here’s the scoop, along with tips for making your own dry yogurt at home if you’re ready to jump on the trend.

What Is Dry Yogurt?

TikTok is buzzing about dry yogurt, but don’t be fooled by the name – it’s not as weird as it sounds. Essentially, dry yogurt is just yogurt that’s been strained to remove the water, resulting in a thick, creamy spread that’s similar to soft cheese. TikTok has taken this simple idea and turned it into a vibrant, sometimes colorful, bowl of deliciousness topped with all sorts of fun ingredients.

So, while “dry yogurt” might not sound like something you'd want to eat, think of it as an upgraded version of regular yogurt that’s extra creamy, and way more versatile. Here’s the thing – it’s actually a take on something much older: labneh. Labneh is a strained yogurt that’s a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.

It’s made by straining Greek yogurt to get rid of the liquid whey, leaving behind a thick, spreadable texture. The longer it’s strained, the thicker it gets. And yes, TikTok’s colorful version of it, with added food dyes, is for fun – don’t expect your yogurt to look like a rainbow naturally.

Is Dry Yogurt Healthy?

You bet! Dry yogurt has some serious nutritional benefits, which make it a great addition to your diet:

High in Protein:

Since dry yogurt is denser than regular yogurt, it packs in more protein per ounce. It’s a great option for building muscle, managing blood sugar, and staying full longer.

Rich in Calcium:

It’s also packed with calcium, which is key for strong bones, dental health, and proper muscle function.

Probiotics Galore:

Dry yogurt retains the probiotics from Greek yogurt, which are excellent for gut health, digestion, and keeping things regular.

Super Versatile:

The creamy texture of dry yogurt makes it perfect for spreading on toast, adding to your oatmeal, or even making a quick dressing. Whether you pair it with sweet or savory dishes, it’s a winner.

Dry Yogurt vs. Regular Yogurt

While dry yogurt is definitely a healthier alternative in some ways, it’s not necessarily “better” than regular yogurt. Dry yogurt has a more concentrated amount of protein and calcium, and it may even have less lactose, making it easier to digest for some people. However, both types of yogurt have their benefits, so rather than worrying about which is healthier, it’s better to enjoy both in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

That being said, dry yogurt sometimes has added salt for preservation, which can increase its sodium content. While sodium is necessary for our bodies, too much can lead to higher blood pressure and heart disease, so keep an eye on your intake.

How To Make Dry Yogurt

Making dry yogurt at home is super simple. Here’s how you can whip it up:

Line a strainer with cheesecloth and set it over a bowl or container.
Add a pinch of salt to your favorite Greek yogurt, then spoon it onto the cheesecloth.
Fold the cheesecloth over the yogurt and place something light on top (like a book) to help press out the excess liquid.
Let it sit in the fridge for 12 to 24 hours, or longer if you want it extra thick.
Once you’ve reached your desired consistency, remove the yogurt from the cheesecloth and enjoy!
And if you want to join the TikTok trend, feel free to share your vibrant dry yogurt bowls on social media, but remember, it’s just as delicious without the dyes.