How to Make Coconut Milk Kefir Step by Step?

Coconut milk kefir is a dairy-free probiotic powerhouse that’s perfect for gut health, especially for those with lactose intolerance or who follow plant-based diets. But how do you make coconut milk kefir step by step at home? It’s easier than you think and the rewards are delicious and nourishing.

How to Make Coconut Milk Kefir Step by Step

✅ Quick Answer:

To make coconut milk kefir step by step:

1. Get active kefir grains.

2. Pour 2 cups of canned or homemade coconut milk into a clean glass jar.

3. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk kefir grains.

4. Cover with a breathable cloth.

5. Ferment at room temperature (68–78°F) for 24–48 hours.

6. Strain out the grains.

7. Store the kefir in the fridge.

Let’s dive deeper into each part of the process below.

What is Coconut Milk Kefir?

Coconut milk kefir is a fermented, dairy-free drink made by culturing coconut milk with milk kefir grains (not water kefir grains). These grains are colonies of yeast and bacteria that transform coconut milk into a tangy, probiotic-rich drink in just a day or two.

Compared to dairy kefir, coconut milk kefir has a slightly thinner consistency, a pleasant tang, and a tropical aroma.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

• 2 cups coconut milk (homemade or full-fat canned, without preservatives like guar gum)

• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk kefir grains (not dehydrated or freeze-dried)

💡 Tip: Choose unsweetened coconut milk for best results. Homemade coconut milk is even better. Here's a guide on making coconut milk if you want to go the extra mile.

Instructions

🔹 Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Use a clean glass jar (preferably quart-size) and non-metallic spoon or spatula. Kefir grains don’t react well with metal.

🔹 Step 2: Add Coconut Milk to the Jar

Pour 2 cups of coconut milk into your jar.

🔹 Step 3: Add Kefir Grains

Gently add 1–2 tablespoons of milk kefir grains into the jar. Stir lightly to distribute them.

🔹 Step 4: Cover and Ferment

Use a coffee filter or cheesecloth secured with a rubber band to allow airflow.
Let it ferment at room temperature (68–78°F) for 24 to 48 hours. Taste after 24 hours. If it’s tangy and slightly fizzy, it's done.

🔹 Step 5: Strain the Grains

Using a plastic mesh strainer, strain out the kefir grains. Store the strained kefir in a clean jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.

🔹 Step 6: Reuse or Rest the Grains

You can reuse the grains immediately or rest them in dairy milk or sugar water if you're not fermenting again soon. Coconut milk doesn’t feed the grains long-term.

Why Make Coconut Milk Kefir at Home?

• Probiotic-Rich: Supports gut health, immunity, and digestion

• Dairy-Free: Great for vegans or lactose-intolerant folks

• Cost-Effective: Store-bought kefir is pricey!

• Customizable: Add fruits, spices, or natural sweeteners after fermentation

Tips

• Coconut milk can separate. Shake before using or blend post-fermentation for smoother texture.

• Don’t use metal utensils or lids. It may damage the grains.

• Watch the time. Over-fermenting makes kefir too sour and thick.

Health Benefits of Coconut Milk Kefir

1. Gut-friendly probiotics support microbiome balance.

2. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut milk provide quick energy.

3. Anti-inflammatory compounds may reduce gut inflammation.

4. Lactic acid bacteria improve lactose digestion, even in dairy kefir.

FAQs

1. Can I use water kefir grains for coconut milk kefir?

No. You must use milk kefir grains, which contain the specific bacteria and yeasts needed to ferment coconut milk properly.

2. Is coconut milk kefir vegan?

Yes, as long as you use non-dairy milk and avoid fermenting with dairy in between.

3. Why is my coconut milk kefir separating?

That’s normal! Coconut milk separates naturally. Just give it a good stir or shake before drinking.

4. Can I flavor my coconut milk kefir?

Absolutely! After fermenting, add vanilla, honey, berries, or cinnamon and blend it into a smoothie or enjoy straight.

5. How long can I store coconut milk kefir?

Keep it refrigerated and consume within 5–7 days for best flavor and probiotic activity.