Making Milk Kefir | Guide and Useful Information
Milk kefir is a probiotic fermented drink created from milk using milk kefir grains. During fermentation, the living microorganisms in the grains convert lactose into lactic acid, carbonic acid, and valuable enzymes.
The result: a tangy, slightly tart drink – natural, refreshing, and good for your gut flora.
Milk kefir can not only be enjoyed on its own but also used in a variety of recipes – for example, in smoothies, dressings, or overnight oats. More on that later – but first, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making your own kefir.
- Activation time: 5-7 days
- Fermentation time: 24-48 h after activation
- Shelf life: approx. 1 week (in the fridge)
Step 1: Activating the kefir grains
- Ingredients: approx. 2 L milk
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Tools (included in the Kefir Starter Set)
- 1 g Milk kefir grains (dried)
- 1 Grow lid
- 1 Oleni Mason Jar | Wide | 0.75 L
If you are starting with dried grains, they must be "woken up" before the first proper fermentation:
Clean the jar and the Grow lid thoroughly.
Add 1 g of dried milk kefir grains along with 100 ml of milk to the jar. Place the Grow lid on the jar so that air can circulate and fermentation proceeds optimally.
Let the mixture sit for 24 hours at room temperature. Stir gently after 12 hours.
Drain the liquid, add another 100 ml of fresh milk, and let it rest for another 24 hours.
Repeat this process daily for 5–7 days. Gradually increase the amount of milk to 200 ml as the grains grow. As soon as the liquid smells sour, becomes thick, and possibly forms bubbles, the grains are active.
The grains are now ready for kefir production.
Step 2: Making milk kefir
As soon as your grains are active
Put the activated kefir grains into a jar and add 600 ml of milk. Place the Grow lid on the jar so that air can circulate and fermentation proceeds optimally.
Let the mixture sit for 24 hours at room temperature.
Pour the finished milk kefir through the integrated sieve in the lid into another jar. Due to fermentation, your milk kefir will have a slightly thick consistency and is now ready to consume. If you want to enjoy it later, you can store it in the refrigerator for approx. 1 week, sealed airtight with a regular lid.
Tip: If you like it even sourer or thicker, you can let the milk kefir ferment for up to 48 hours before straining the grains.You can start a new fermentation immediately with the kefir grains by adding fresh milk (600 ml). Reactivating the grains is not necessary.
Storing milk kefir grains
If you don't want to start a new batch of kefir milk immediately, you can store your kefir grains in the refrigerator for 2–3 weeks. Gently rinse them with lukewarm water, place them in a jar with 100 ml of milk, seal it airtight, and store it in the refrigerator.
Frequently asked questions about milk kefir
What should I do with the grains if I want to take a break?
You can store them in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks with fresh milk in an airtight container. If you would like to take a longer break, you can freeze them in fresh milk.
Can I also use plant-based milk?
Milk kefir can also be made with plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, oat, or coconut milk. However, it is important to note that kefir grains require animal milk for their health and reproduction. Plant-based milk only works to a limited extent—for example, in combination with dates or with regular cycles back in cow's milk. Therefore, many recommend fermenting the grains in animal milk regularly—at least every 2-3 batches—to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.
For completely vegan fermentation, we recommend water kefir or the Turmeric Bug.
What is the difference between activation and production?
Activation is a one-time step to bring dried grains back to life. After that, you can continue using the milk kefir indefinitely & produce milk kefir—without needing to activate it again.
Recipe ideas & inspiration
Are you looking for delicious ways to enjoy your milk kefir or are you more interested in a plant-based, bubbly alternative? Then check out our blog posts on the subject. Here you will find creative and healthy recipes using your favorite ferment.
