Toasted milk powder is a simple yet transformative ingredient that adds deep, nutty, caramel-like notes to both sweet and savoury bakes. Made by gently heating milk powder until golden, it delivers the flavour of browned butter in a convenient, shelf-stable form that can instantly elevate everyday recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This method is quick, affordable, and requires only one ingredient. Toasted milk powder intensifies flavour without adding extra liquid or fat, making it incredibly versatile. It blends seamlessly into doughs, batters, drinks, and desserts, adding warmth and complexity with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup full-fat or skim milk powder

Directions

Pour the milk powder into a wide nonstick pan and spread it out evenly.

Place the pan over medium-low heat. Using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon, stir the milk powder almost continuously to prevent burning and ensure even toasting.

As you stir, the powder will gradually change from white to pale beige, then to a warm golden brown. This process takes about 8 to 12 minutes.

Once the milk powder releases a nutty, caramel-like aroma and reaches a golden-brown colour, remove the pan from the heat. Continue stirring for another 30 seconds to prevent residual heat from over-browning it.

Transfer the toasted milk powder to a bowl and allow it to cool completely before storing.

If any clumps form, pulse briefly in a food processor until fine.

Servings and timing

Yield: approximately 1 cup toasted milk powder
Prep time: 1 minute
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 13 minutes

Variations

For a deeper, more intense flavour, continue toasting until the powder reaches a darker amber colour, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Use skim milk powder for a lighter, less rich flavour or full-fat milk powder for maximum caramel depth.

Toast the milk powder in the oven at 150°C for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, if you prefer a hands-off method.

Storage/Reheating

Store toasted milk powder in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark pantry.

Use within 2 months for the best flavour and aroma.

There is no need to reheat before use; simply add it directly to your recipes.

FAQs

What does toasted milk powder taste like?

It has a rich, nutty, caramel-like flavour similar to browned butter or butterscotch.

Can I use skim milk powder instead of full-fat?

Yes, both work well. Full-fat produces a richer flavour, while skim gives a lighter result.

Can toasted milk powder burn easily?

Yes, which is why constant stirring and medium-low heat are essential.

Why is my milk powder clumping?

Clumping can happen if the heat is uneven. Simply blend the cooled powder to make it smooth again.

Can I use toasted milk powder in drinks?

Yes, it’s delicious stirred into coffee, lattes, or hot chocolate.

Is toasted milk powder sweetened?

No, it contains no added sugar. The sweetness comes from caramelised milk sugars.

Can I add it to bread recipes?

Absolutely. It enhances flavour in breads, biscuits, and rusks without affecting hydration.

Does toasting reduce its nutritional value?

It still retains protein and minerals, though flavour is the primary benefit.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a very wide pan and stir constantly to ensure even browning.

How do I know when it’s done?

Look for a golden-brown colour and a nutty aroma. Remove from heat before it turns dark brown.

Conclusion

Toasted milk powder is a powerful yet simple baking upgrade that delivers deep flavour with almost no effort. Once you try it, you’ll find countless ways to incorporate it into cookies, cakes, drinks, and desserts, making it a quiet secret weapon in your kitchen.

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