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How to Make Powdered Milk at Home (Easy DIY Recipe)

Homemade Powdered Milk (DIY)

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 5 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups fresh milk Whole milk for creaminess, or skim/low-fat milk for longer shelf life.
  • 1 tbsp cold water Used only during reconstitution, not the drying process.
  • 1 cup warm water Used only during reconstitution.

Instructions
 

  • Pour the milk into a large, heavy-bottomed non-stick pot. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until it begins to boil.
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir consistently to prevent a skin from forming or the bottom from scorching. Cook until the water evaporates and the milk reduces to a thick, creamy paste (similar to condensed milk).
  • Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, ideally between 140°F (60°C) and 150°F (65°C). If using a dehydrator, set it to 135°F (57°C).
  • Line a baking sheet or dehydrator tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spread the milk paste in a thin, even layer across the surface.
  • Place the tray in the oven or dehydrator. If using an oven, prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape. Dry for 4 to 8 hours, checking periodically, until the paste is completely dry, brittle, and snaps easily.
  • Remove from the heat and let the dried milk sheet cool completely.
  • Break the dried milk into shards and place them into a blender, spice grinder, or food processor. Pulse until it becomes a fine powder.
  • Pass the powder through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining large granules. Reprocess the granules if necessary.
  • Store in an airtight jar or container in a cool, dark place.
  • To reconstitute: Mix 1 part powdered milk (approx. 1/4 cup) with a small amount of cold water to form a smooth paste, then whisk in the remaining warm water (approx. 1 cup total) until dissolved.