Powdered milk is one of those pantry essentials that you might have stashed away without realizing just how versatile it can be in your kitchen. While it's commonly used for milk and soups, powdered milk can also help you create other pantry staples, especially when you can't get to a store. So, take that can of powdered milk from the back of your pantry and start experimenting with these easy and useful recipes. *Note: All recipes are based on non-fat, skim powdered milk, which is the most common type, as the removal of fat helps it store longer without spoiling.
1. Whipped Cream
Did you know you don’t need full-fat whipping cream to make delicious whipped cream? Powdered milk can do the job just as well, without the extra fat and calories. Plus, once opened, powdered milk stays good for months—no need to worry about spoilage!
What You Need:
- 1 cup dry instant milk
- Chilled bowl (Place in freezer for 30 minutes before use)
- 1 cup ice water (I prefer a 1:3 ice-to-water ratio)
- Mixer (Place beaters in the freezer with the bowl)
- 4 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
- In your chilled bowl, combine 1 cup instant milk and 1 cup ice water.
- Using chilled beaters, mix the ingredients until fluffy.
- For sweetened whipped cream, add sugar and vanilla and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
2. Sour Cream
Sour cream is a great condiment and a key ingredient in many recipes. You can easily make it at home with just a few ingredients!
What You Need:
- 2/3 cup powdered milk
- 3/4 cup cold water
- 1 tsp vinegar
Directions:
- Mix the powdered milk and cold water until combined.
- Add vinegar and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes.
- Beat the mixture until thickened. Use it as a topping or in recipes!
3. Sweetened Condensed Milk
Sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient in many desserts, and it's easy to make at home using powdered milk. Perfect for baking or adding to drinks!
What You Need:
- 1 cup instant milk
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Be cautious with the boiling water to avoid splashing.
- Store the sweetened condensed milk in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
4. Evaporated Milk
Evaporated milk is a great pantry substitute for regular milk in recipes like soups or sauces. It’s not sweetened, and it’s low in fat.
What You Need:
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp powdered milk
Directions:
- Mix the water and powdered milk until fully incorporated. A blender can help here.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
5. Homemade Cheese
Yes, you can make your own fresh cheese from powdered milk! This cheese doesn't need to be aged and is a healthy, low-fat alternative to store-bought cheese.
What You Need:
- 4 cups powdered milk
- 8 cups water
- 1/3 cup vinegar or lemon juice
- Large pot (a crock pot works well too)
- Salt to taste
- Kitchen towel and cheesecloth
Directions:
- Mix the powdered milk and water in a large pot until fully dissolved.
- Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°F, stirring constantly. (Alternatively, use a crock pot and stir intermittently.)
- Once the temperature is reached, stir in the vinegar or lemon juice. Remove from heat.
- Cover with a kitchen towel and let cool to room temperature for a few hours.
- Use a slotted spoon or strainer to separate the curds from the whey. Place the curds in cheesecloth and squeeze out excess whey to your desired consistency.
- Refrigerate your fresh cheese and enjoy within a few days. You can also add flavorings like salt, garlic, or yellow cheese powder.
For a visual guide on how to make cheese from powdered milk, check out this video tutorial.
