The world of pastry and confectionery is full of surprises and treasures. One of them is powdered milk. But can we use it in the recipes we make? Yes, we can and here we tell you how.
What Is Powdered Milk and What Are Its Benefits?
It is fresh milk obtained by dehydrating the pasteurized milk product. Despite this, it is still a concentrated source of protein and amino acids. In addition, it contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, such as:
- Vitamin A.
- Thiamine (vitamin B1).
- Riboflavin (vitamin B2).
- Niacin (vitamin B3).
- Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5).
- Pyridoxine (vitamin B6).
- Biotin (vitamin B7).
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin C).
- Calcium.
- Phosphorus.
- Magnesium.
In addition, it has several benefits. Its long shelf life allows it to maintain its properties for longer, and it can be stored at room temperature. It is also easy to use and can be incorporated into various recipes without modification, especially when preparing baked goods.
At the same time, powdered milk enhances the flavors and textures of dishes, making it useful for tender breads and chewy cookies, while intensifying the flavor of chocolate.
An additional plus point is that it does not require the addition of extra liquid when used in dough (Vartanian, 2022).
Uses You Can Give to Powdered Milk
Along with shortening, this ingredient has become a treasure trove for confectioners and bakers.
Here are several ways to get the most out of this product:
For Brown Butter
When making our products, it is common to brown butter. This happens because the milk solids caramelize. Using this type of milk can multiply the effect up to tenfold.
Therefore, for one stick of butter, use 2 to 4 tablespoons.
When Baking Bread
This milk's protein and sugar content gives the bread a better structure and texture. Thus, breads become more tender. In addition, you will notice that crust will have a more intense color.
In this sense, you will have tanned bread as a result. Likewise, the use of this product makes the rising process more intense. Also, by including this milk, you will help to increase its shelf life without losing its softness.
An Ally for Ice Cream
This dairy product is very absorbent. In that sense, it retains up to 10 times its weight in water. Therefore, by adding a spoonful to ice cream, it absorbs excess moisture.
At the same time, milk proteins improve aeration and provide a delicious creamy texture. Thus, binding with the liquid and fat in the ice cream prevents ice crystals from forming. This gives it the characteristics of a great emulsifier.
Remember that powdered milk is more than just an ingredient: it is your secret key. Take a look at our products!
Bibliographic references
Think Usa Dairy. (s.f.). Salud y nutrición de leche en polvo. https://www.thinkusadairy.org/es/inicio/productos-lacteos-estadounidenses/leches-en-polvo/salud-y-nutricion
Uskokovic, S. (2023, 9 de marzo). What Do You Mean You Don’t Have Milk Powder in the Pantry? Bon Appétit. https://www.bonappetit.com/story/powdered-milk
Vartanian, T. (2022, 21 de agosto). Why You Should Use Milk Powder When Baking. Tasting Table. https://www.tastingtable.com/970232/why-you-should-use-milk-powder-when-baking/