18 Creamy Powdered Milk Recipes Deliciously Easy

Got a box of powdered milk sitting in your pantry? Don’t let it gather dust—turn it into something deliciously creamy! From velvety soups to dreamy desserts, these 18 easy recipes prove powdered milk is a secret kitchen hero. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or craving cozy comfort food, we’ve got your next favorite dish waiting. Let’s get mixing!

Powdered Milk Pancakes

These fluffy pancakes get their rich, creamy flavor from powdered milk—a pantry staple that adds a nostalgic touch to your breakfast routine.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered milk
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup water
• 2 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for greasing)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup powdered milk, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg, then stir in 1 cup water, 2 tbsp melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (a few lumps are okay).
4. Heat a griddle or nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake and cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden.

The powdered milk gives these pancakes a subtly sweet, custard-like richness—no fresh milk required! They’re perfect for camping or lazy weekends when you want something comforting but simple.

Tip: For extra fluffiness, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking.

Creamy Powdered Milk Hot Chocolate

This rich, velvety hot chocolate comes together in minutes with pantry staples—no fresh milk required!

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup powdered milk
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream or marshmallows (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/3 cup sugar, 1/2 cup powdered milk, and 1/4 tsp salt until no lumps remain.
2. Gradually pour in 3 cups water while whisking constantly to prevent clumping.
3. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until steaming (about 5 minutes)—do not boil.
4. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired.

The powdered milk adds a uniquely smooth, custard-like thickness that’s extra comforting on chilly nights.

Tip: For a mocha twist, stir in 1/2 tsp instant espresso powder with the cocoa.

Homemade Powdered Milk Yogurt

Skip the store-bought tubs—this creamy powdered milk yogurt is surprisingly simple to make at home, with just two ingredients and a little patience.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered milk
• 3 cups warm water (110°F–115°F)
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt (with live cultures, as starter)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered milk and warm water until completely smooth and no clumps remain.
2. Gently stir in the plain yogurt until fully incorporated.
3. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar, cover with a lid or cloth, and let it sit in a warm spot (like an oven with the light on) for 6–8 hours, or until thickened to your liking.
4. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving—the yogurt will firm up further as it cools.

The magic here? Powdered milk gives this yogurt a rich, slightly caramelized flavor you won’t find in dairy-based versions. Perfect for drizzling with honey or blending into smoothies!

Tip: For extra-thick yogurt, strain it through cheesecloth for 1–2 hours after chilling.

Powdered Milk Banana Bread

Powdered Milk Banana Bread

This ultra-moist banana bread gets a subtle creamy richness from powdered milk, making it a nostalgic twist on the classic.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/2 cup powdered milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, powdered milk, melted butter, 3/4 cup sugar, eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Fold into wet ingredients until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 50–55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

The powdered milk adds a delicate custard-like undertone without overpowering the banana—perfect with a swipe of salted butter.

Tip: For extra depth, toast the powdered milk in a dry skillet over low heat for 2 minutes before using.

Fluffy Powdered Milk Waffles

These waffles are light as a cloud with a subtle sweetness from powdered milk—perfect for lazy weekend brunches or a fun breakfast-for-dinner twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered milk
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ¼ cups water
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high (about 375°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup powdered milk, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt.
3. In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs, then mix in 1 ¼ cups water, ¼ cup melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (a few lumps are okay—overmixing makes tough waffles!).
5. Lightly grease the waffle iron, then pour about ½ cup batter per waffle. Cook for 3–4 minutes until golden and crisp.

The powdered milk gives these waffles an extra-tender crumb and a nostalgic, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with maple syrup or fresh berries.

Tip: For extra-fluffy waffles, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking—it gives the baking powder time to work its magic!

Powdered Milk Mashed Potatoes

These fluffy mashed potatoes get their rich texture from powdered milk, a pantry staple that adds a subtle sweetness without needing fresh dairy.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup powdered milk
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
2. Whisk powdered milk and hot water in a small bowl until smooth. Pour over potatoes.
3. Add butter, salt, and black pepper. Mash with a potato masher or hand mixer until creamy (about 2 minutes).
4. Fold in chives if using. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

The powdered milk creates an extra-light texture that clings to gravy beautifully—no one will guess the secret ingredient!

Tip: For garlicky flavor, simmer 2 minced cloves with the butter before adding to the potatoes.

Rich Powdered Milk Pudding

This creamy, dreamy pudding is a nostalgic treat with a velvety texture—no fancy ingredients required, just pantry staples!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 cups water, divided
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup powdered milk, 1/2 cup sugar, 3 tbsp cornstarch, and 1/4 tsp salt until no lumps remain.
2. Gradually pour in 2 cups water, whisking constantly to dissolve the mixture. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
3. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 8–10 minutes). Reduce heat to low if it bubbles too vigorously.
4. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1 tbsp butter until fully melted and smooth.
5. Pour the pudding into a serving dish or individual cups. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

The magic here? Powdered milk gives this pudding an extra-rich, caramel-like depth—no dairy run required! Serve it plain or with a drizzle of honey for a cozy twist.

Tip: For a fun variation, swap the vanilla for 1/2 tsp cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg.

Powdered Milk Cheese Sauce

This creamy, pantry-friendly cheese sauce comes together in minutes—no fresh milk required! Perfect for drizzling over nachos, baked potatoes, or steamed veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 cup powdered milk
• 1 cup water
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered milk and 1 cup water until smooth. Set aside.
2. Melt 2 tbsp butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tbsp flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly.
3. Slowly pour in the reconstituted milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp salt.
4. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted and silky.

The smoky paprika and powdered milk give this sauce a rich, slightly caramelized depth—like a grown-up version of boxed mac and cheese sauce!

Tip: For extra tang, swap half the cheddar for pepper jack cheese.

Velvety Powdered Milk Ice Cream

This dreamy no-churn ice cream gets its rich, creamy texture from powdered milk—no fancy equipment required!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup powdered milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes.
2. Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk (1/2 cup), powdered milk (1/4 cup), vanilla extract (1 tsp), and salt (pinch) until fully combined.
3. Pour into a loaf pan, smooth the top, and freeze for at least 6 hours (or overnight) until firm.

The powdered milk adds a nostalgic malt-like depth that makes this ice cream taste like it came from an old-school soda shop.

Tip: For extra flair, swirl in crushed cookies or fruit preserves before freezing!

Powdered Milk Biscuits

These fluffy, slightly sweet powdered milk biscuits are a nostalgic treat—simple to whip up and perfect with jam or a drizzle of honey.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered milk
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup cold water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered milk, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually stir in the cold water until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface, gently pat into a 1-inch-thick rectangle, and cut into 8 squares.
6. Place biscuits on the prepared sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and puffed.

The powdered milk adds a subtle richness and tenderness you won’t get from regular biscuits—ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Tip: For extra flaky layers, fold the dough in half before patting it out.

Decadent Powdered Milk Fudge

This melt-in-your-mouth fudge is a nostalgic treat with a rich, creamy texture—no fancy ingredients required, just pantry staples!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup water
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/4 cup water, and 3 tbsp butter. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbling (about 3–4 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and immediately stir in 1 cup powdered milk, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix vigorously until thick and glossy (about 1 minute).
3. Pour into a parchment-lined 5×5-inch dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Chill for 1 hour until firm, then cut into squares.

The magic here? Powdered milk gives this fudge an ultra-smooth, almost caramel-like depth—no condensed milk needed!

Tip: For a festive twist, sprinkle flaky sea salt or crushed nuts over the fudge before chilling.

Powdered Milk French Toast

This nostalgic twist on classic French toast uses powdered milk for an extra-rich, custardy bite—perfect for lazy weekend mornings.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup powdered milk
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 4 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, powdered milk, whole milk, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and melt 1 tbsp butter.
3. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, letting it soak for 15 seconds per side.
4. Cook soaked bread for 3–4 minutes per side until deeply golden and crisp at the edges. Repeat with remaining bread, adding the remaining 1 tbsp butter to the skillet.

The powdered milk adds a subtle caramelized sweetness you won’t get with regular custard—like French toast’s secret upgrade!

Tip: For extra fluffiness, let the batter sit for 5 minutes before dipping to hydrate the powdered milk fully.

Creamy Powdered Milk Soup Base

This velvety soup base is a pantry hero—turning simple powdered milk into a rich, comforting foundation for endless variations.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered milk
• 4 cups water
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly.
2. Gradually pour in 4 cups water, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and whisk in 1 cup powdered milk, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often, until thickened to a creamy chowder consistency.

The magic here? Powdered milk adds a subtle caramelized sweetness that fresh dairy just can’t match—perfect for loading with potatoes, corn, or shredded chicken.

Tip: For extra depth, brown the butter slightly before adding the flour (it’ll smell nutty!).

Powdered Milk Smoothie Bowl

This creamy, dreamy smoothie bowl is a nostalgic twist on breakfast—packed with protein and ready in minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup powdered milk
• 1 frozen banana, sliced
• 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup cold water (plus more as needed)
• 2 tbsp granola (for topping)
• 1 tbsp shredded coconut (for topping)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine powdered milk, frozen banana, frozen mango, honey, vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup cold water. Blend on high until smooth, adding 1 tbsp more water at a time if needed to reach a thick but pourable consistency.
2. Pour into a bowl and top with granola and shredded coconut.

The powdered milk gives this bowl an ultra-creamy texture and a subtle malted flavor—like a milkshake you can eat with a spoon!

Tip: For extra richness, swap water for chilled coconut milk or almond milk.

Powdered Milk Cornbread

This golden, slightly sweet cornbread gets its tender crumb from powdered milk—a pantry staple that adds richness without the need for fresh dairy.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/4 cup powdered milk
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup yellow cornmeal, 1/4 cup powdered milk, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt in a large bowl.
3. In another bowl, beat 1 large egg, then stir in 1 cup water and 1/4 cup vegetable oil.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir just until combined (batter will be slightly lumpy).
5. Spread batter into prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, until edges pull away and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

The powdered milk gives this cornbread a subtle creaminess that pairs perfectly with chili or a drizzle of honey. Tip: For extra texture, fold in 1/2 cup thawed frozen corn kernels with the wet ingredients.

Homemade Powdered Milk Butter

Who knew you could whip up rich, creamy butter from powdered milk? This pantry-friendly hack is perfect for when you’re out of fresh butter but craving that homemade touch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered whole milk
• 1/2 cup ice-cold water
• 1/4 cup neutral oil (like avocado or grapeseed)
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine 1 cup powdered whole milk and 1/2 cup ice-cold water. Blend on high for 30 seconds until smooth.
2. With the blender running, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup neutral oil until the mixture thickens like whipped cream (about 1 minute).
3. Add 1/4 tsp salt and pulse 2–3 times to incorporate. Scrape down the sides if needed.
4. Transfer to an airtight container and chill for 30 minutes to firm up before using.

The magic here? Powdered milk gives this butter a subtly caramelized flavor that’s fantastic on toast or in mashed potatoes. Tip: For extra richness, swap the oil with melted coconut oil—just note it’ll solidify when cold!

Powdered Milk Custard Pie

This nostalgic custard pie is a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s surprisingly simple—thanks to powdered milk for extra richness without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup powdered milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges decoratively.
2. In a blender, combine 1 cup powdered milk, 1 cup granulated sugar, eggs, 2 cups water, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, about 1 minute.
3. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and let it sit for 5 minutes to settle (this prevents bubbles).
4. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the center is just set (a slight jiggle is okay—it’ll firm up as it cools).
5. Cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

The powdered milk gives this custard a velvety texture and caramelized top that’s downright irresistible. Serve chilled with a dusting of extra nutmeg for a cozy finish.

Tip: For a deeper flavor, toast the pie crust for 5 minutes before adding the filling—just keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.

Powdered Milk Rice Pudding

This creamy, comforting rice pudding gets its rich texture from powdered milk—a pantry staple that adds a nostalgic touch to every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked short-grain white rice
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup powdered milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
2. Stir in the powdered milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened and creamy.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and raisins (if using). Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

The powdered milk gives this pudding a uniquely velvety texture—like a hug in a bowl! Serve warm or chilled with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon.

Tip: For extra richness, swap half the water for whole milk or stir in a pat of butter at the end.

Conclusion

With these 18 creamy powdered milk recipes, you’ve got easy, budget-friendly meals and treats at your fingertips! Whether you’re whipping up a quick dessert or a comforting dinner, powdered milk is your secret weapon. Give these recipes a try, then let us know which ones you loved in the comments—and don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest for fellow home cooks to enjoy!