How to Make Milk Powder in Your Kitchen

Do you need to know how to make milk powder from milk? Look no further—we’ll walk you through all the steps. Making milk powder at home can be a rewarding process, allowing you to have a versatile ingredient for cooking and baking. While the process requires time and patience, the result is a homemade product that can be used in various recipes.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make milk powder in your kitchen:

Ingredients:

Fresh whole milk (or any type of milk you prefer, such as skim or semi-skimmed)

Equipment:

Large saucepan

Baking sheet or large tray

Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Oven (or dehydrator if available)

Blender or food processor

Airtight container for storage

Steps:

Prepare the Milk:

Start with fresh whole milk. You can use as much milk as you want to make, but for ease, start with 1 liter.

Heat the Milk:

Pour the milk into a large saucepan. Heat it over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent it from scorching. You want to reduce the milk without boiling it. The goal is to evaporate most of the water content.

Reduce the Milk:

Continue heating and stirring the milk until it thickens and reduces in volume. This process can take 1-2 hours. You want the milk to be thick but not burned. The milk should be reduced to about one-third of its original volume.

Prepare the Baking Sheet:

Line a large baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the milk from sticking and help in the even drying process.

Spread the Milk:

Pour the thickened milk onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or spoon. Aim for a thin, even layer to ensure that it dries uniformly.

Dry the Milk:

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (typically between 120-150°F or 50-65°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and leave the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Drying may take anywhere from 6-12 hours, depending on the thickness of the milk layer and your oven’s efficiency. Check periodically and stir the milk to ensure even drying.

Dehydrator Method (if available): Set your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) and dehydrate the milk until it is completely dry. This may take 6-8 hours. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times.

Cool and Crush:

Once the milk is fully dried and crisp, remove it from the oven or dehydrator. Allow it to cool completely. Break the dried milk into pieces and transfer it to a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a fine powder.

Store the Milk Powder:

Transfer the milk powder to an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place. For optimal freshness, use within 6 months.

Tips:

Uniform Drying: To ensure even drying, spread the milk in a thin, even layer on the baking sheet.

Avoid Burning: Keep the heat low and stir frequently to prevent the milk from burning.

Blender Use: A blender or food processor helps achieve a fine, consistent powder. If you have a coffee grinder, it can also be used for this purpose.

Making milk powder at home involves time and patience but results in a valuable ingredient that can be used in various recipes, from baking to beverages. Enjoy your homemade milk powder!

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