7 Best Milk Alternatives for Baking Reviewed for 2025

As a passionate home baker who’s often navigating different dietary needs and flavor profiles, I’ve personally experimented with countless dairy-free and powdered milk options in my kitchen. Finding the best milk alternatives for baking isn’t just about swapping out cow’s milk; it’s about understanding how each alternative impacts texture, flavor, and the overall success of your recipes. From achieving that perfect rise in a cake to the ideal creaminess in a scone, the right milk substitute makes all the difference. I’ve spent hours testing, tasting, and tweaking, and I’m excited to share my hands-on insights into seven top contenders that can truly elevate your baking game. This comprehensive guide will walk you through detailed reviews, highlight key benefits, and offer practical advice to help you choose the ideal milk alternative for your next baking adventure.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Anthony’s Organic Coconut Milk Powder, 1 lb, Gluten Free,…	View on Amazon
	Whole milk powder By Medley Hills Farm in Reusable…	View on Amazon
	Simply Asia Unsweetened Coconut Milk, 13.66 fl oz (Pack…	View on Amazon
	Kate Naturals Dry Whole Milk Powder for Baking, Coffee &…	View on Amazon
	Goat Milk Powder, 1lb – Natural Grass Fed Source from…	View on Amazon
	Praohom Coconut Milk 8.5 Fl Oz – Plant Based, Dairy…	View on Amazon
	Saco Cultured Buttermilk for Cooking and Baking, Powdered,…	View on Amazon

Anthony’s Organic Coconut Milk Powder, 1 lb, Gluten Free,…

As someone who loves experimenting with dairy-free baking, I’ve found Anthony’s Organic Coconut Milk Powder to be a fantastic pantry staple. This versatile powder offers the creamy richness of coconut milk in a convenient, shelf-stable form, perfect for those times you don’t have liquid coconut milk on hand or want to avoid excess moisture. It’s organic, non-GMO, and verified gluten-free, which is a huge plus for specific dietary needs. I’ve used it in everything from smoothies to baked goods and even sauces, adding a subtle tropical note without being overwhelming. It’s especially great for thickening batters and creating a moist crumb, making it a strong contender for your best milk alternatives for baking arsenal.

Key Features that stand out (Bold):
* Organic Coconut Milk Powder
* Batch Tested and Verified Gluten Free
* No Added Sugars
* Dairy Free & Vegan
* Versatile for baking, sauces, smoothies

Pros:
* -Excellent for dairy-free and vegan baking.
* -Shelf-stable and easy to store.
* -Adds rich, creamy coconut flavor and moisture.
* -Organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free verified for peace of mind.
* -Allows for precise control over consistency when reconstituted.

Cons:
* -The inherent coconut flavor might not be suitable for all recipes.

Best for: Dairy-free and vegan bakers looking for a shelf-stable, organic coconut milk option that adds richness and a subtle tropical flavor.

Expert Opinion: This coconut milk powder is a game-changer for bakers who need to control the moisture content in their recipes. Its fine texture blends seamlessly, and the pure coconut flavor elevates both sweet and savory applications, providing a consistent dairy-free solution.

Whole milk powder By Medley Hills Farm in Reusable…

Medley Hills Farm’s Whole Milk Powder is a true workhorse in my pantry, especially when I’m aiming for the classic dairy richness without keeping fresh milk on hand. This product shines in its convenience and versatility, coming in a reusable container that keeps it fresh. I’ve successfully used it for everything from enriching bread doughs to creating creamy custards and even just for a quick glass of milk. Its ability to deliver a familiar, full-bodied milk flavor makes it an excellent choice for traditional recipes where you want to maintain that authentic taste. The company uses a shorter pasteurization and quicker drying process, which really seems to contribute to a superior flavor compared to some other powdered milks I’ve tried.

Key Features that stand out (Bold):
* 1 lb. of powdered milk in Reusable container
* Great for baking, cooking, cereal, coffee, tea
* Reconstitutes to liquid milk (3 Tbsp. powder + 1 cup water)
* Made from pure cows milk with no artificial hormones
* Kosher certified

Pros:
* -Delivers a traditional, rich dairy flavor.
* -Excellent for a wide range of baking and cooking applications.
* -Shelf-stable and reduces waste compared to fresh milk.
* -Reusable container is convenient for storage.
* -Easy to reconstitute for liquid milk.

Cons:
* -It contains dairy, so it’s not suitable for vegan or dairy-intolerant diets.

Best for: Bakers who want the convenience and shelf-stability of powdered milk without compromising on traditional dairy flavor and richness in their recipes.

Expert Opinion: This whole milk powder provides exceptional value for traditional baking. Its superior taste profile and easy reconstitution make it a reliable choice for achieving classic textures and flavors in items like breads, cakes, and sauces, without the worry of spoilage.

Simply Asia Unsweetened Coconut Milk, 13.66 fl oz (Pack…

For those times when a recipe calls for liquid coconut milk and you want an authentic, creamy, and dairy-free option, Simply Asia Unsweetened Coconut Milk is a fantastic pick. I’ve reached for this countless times when making everything from curries and soups to moist cakes and dairy-free puddings. What I appreciate most is its commitment to fresh, flavorful ingredients, sourced from premium, ripe coconut meat, which translates into a wonderfully rich and consistent product. It’s truly designed with culinary professionals in mind, but it’s just as easy for a home baker to use. Being unsweetened, gluten-free, and free from MSG or artificial colors means it’s a clean ingredient that lets the natural flavors of your baked goods shine.

Key Features that stand out (Bold):
* Authentic Asian Cuisine flavors, dairy-free
* Made from premium, ripe coconut meat
* Blended for consistent performance, great for commercial kitchens
* Creamy, non-dairy substitute for baking and cooking
* No gluten, MSG, artificial colors, or sweeteners

Pros:
* -Offers a rich, creamy texture essential for many baked goods.
* -Unsweetened, allowing control over sugar levels in recipes.
* -Dairy-free and plant-based, suitable for many dietary needs.
* -Consistently high quality and flavor from premium coconuts.
* -Free from common allergens and artificial additives.

Cons:
* -Canned liquid coconut milk can sometimes separate, requiring a good shake or stir.

Best for: Bakers needing a high-quality, unsweetened, liquid dairy-free alternative that brings a rich, creamy texture and subtle coconut flavor to their recipes.

Expert Opinion: This canned coconut milk is a pantry essential for anyone focusing on dairy-free baking, especially for recipes where richness and moisture are key. Its pure, unsweetened profile means it won’t interfere with your carefully balanced flavors, making it incredibly versatile.

Kate Naturals Dry Whole Milk Powder for Baking, Coffee &…

Kate Naturals Dry Whole Milk Powder has become another go-to for me when I need the convenience of powdered milk. It’s incredibly similar to Medley Hills Farm but stands out with its explicit mention of being bread machine compatible, which is a huge plus for my bread-making days! This powder offers a rich, creamy taste that integrates seamlessly into coffee, tea, and, most importantly, baked goods, delivering a comforting dairy flavor without the need for fresh milk. It’s super easy to reconstitute with water, making it a reliable and shelf-stable source of calcium and protein. I appreciate that it’s designed to reduce waste and always be on hand, eliminating those last-minute grocery runs.

Key Features that stand out (Bold):
* Convenient and shelf-stable alternative to fresh milk
* Rich, creamy taste for coffee, tea, and baking
* Naturally contains Calcium & Protein
* Easy to make & Bread Machine Compatible
* High quality milk powder

Pros:
* -Provides a classic dairy flavor and richness to baked goods.
* -Shelf-stable and helps reduce dairy waste.
* -Compatible with bread machines for easy integration.
* -Good source of calcium and protein.
* -Easily reconstitutes with water for liquid milk needs.

Cons:
* -Contains dairy, making it unsuitable for vegan or lactose-intolerant diets.

Best for: Bakers who appreciate the convenience of powdered whole milk, especially those who use bread machines, and want a reliable source of dairy flavor and nutrition.

Expert Opinion: For bakers seeking a versatile, shelf-stable dairy option, Kate Naturals offers an excellent solution. Its ease of use and ability to enhance both flavor and nutritional content make it particularly valuable for everyday baking, especially in recipes like homemade bread.

Goat Milk Powder, 1lb – Natural Grass Fed Source from…

When I’m looking for a unique dairy alternative that’s often easier to digest than cow’s milk, I turn to Goat Milk Powder. This particular option from a natural grass-fed source is fantastic, offering a naturally creamy texture and a mild flavor that blends beautifully into a variety of recipes without overpowering them. I’ve used it in smoothies, oatmeal, and even delicate dessert recipes where I want to add richness and nutritional value (it’s a great source of calcium, potassium, and protein) without the strong “goat-y” taste sometimes associated with fresh goat milk. It’s also lower in lactose than cow’s milk, which is a big plus for some, and it’s verified non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, and wheat-free.

Key Features that stand out (Bold):
* Premium goat milk powder from farm direct, grass-fed goats
* Naturally creamy with a mild flavor
* Lower lactose levels than cow’s milk
* Versatile for smoothies, desserts, baking, pet food
* Natural source of calcium, potassium, and protein
* Non-GMO, 3rd party lab tested, free from common allergens

Pros:
* -Often easier to digest for those sensitive to cow’s milk.
* -Adds a unique, mild creaminess to baked goods.
* -Nutrient-rich with calcium, potassium, and protein.
* -Shelf-stable and convenient to store.
* -Free from many common allergens like gluten, soy, and wheat.

Cons:
* -While mild, it does have a distinct flavor profile that might not suit all palettes.

Best for: Bakers and consumers looking for a gentler, nutrient-rich dairy alternative that is often easier to digest and offers a unique, mild flavor to a wide range of recipes.

Expert Opinion: Goat milk powder is a fantastic niche product for those with sensitivities to cow’s milk or seeking a slightly different flavor dimension. Its nutritional benefits and smooth texture make it a valuable addition to both savory and sweet baked goods, offering an interesting twist.

Praohom Coconut Milk 8.5 Fl Oz – Plant Based, Dairy…

Praohom Coconut Milk is another excellent liquid coconut milk option, notable for its silky smoothness and rich, creamy texture. When I’m baking recipes that demand a lusciously moist crumb or a dairy-free custard with a truly decadent mouthfeel, this is one I grab. It’s crafted to elevate dishes, bringing a touch of the tropics right into your kitchen. What I particularly love is that it’s free from additives, ensuring you get the pure taste of coconuts without any unwanted extras. This makes it a clean and reliable ingredient for a variety of baking applications, from fluffy cakes to rich curries or creamy sauces. Its pure composition ensures your recipes taste exactly as intended, just with an added layer of plant-based goodness.

Key Features that stand out (Bold):
* Silky Smoothness and rich, creamy texture
* Crafted to elevate dishes with velvety consistency
* Perfect for soups, curries, or baking
* Free from additives
* Pure taste of coconuts, packed with natural goodness

Pros:
* -Delivers exceptional creaminess and moisture to baked goods.
* -Pure coconut taste without any additives or artificial ingredients.
* -Plant-based and dairy-free, suitable for many diets.
* -Elevates the texture and richness of recipes.
* -Convenient smaller can size for single-use recipes.

Cons:
* -The smaller can size might not be economical for larger batch baking.

Best for: Bakers who prioritize a truly silky, additive-free liquid coconut milk for creating rich, moist, and plant-based baked goods, especially when a delicate coconut flavor is desired.

Expert Opinion: Praohom Coconut Milk stands out for its superior texture and purity. Its ability to create exceptionally moist and tender baked goods makes it a top choice for dairy-free recipes where a luxurious mouthfeel is paramount.

Saco Cultured Buttermilk for Cooking and Baking, Powdered,…

Saco Cultured Buttermilk Powder is a pantry hero for any baker, especially those who often find themselves without fresh buttermilk. I can’t tell you how many times this powder has saved my recipes, from fluffy buttermilk pancakes to tender biscuits and moist cakes. The magic of buttermilk lies in its acidity, which reacts with baking soda to create a light, airy texture and a unique tangy flavor. This powdered version captures that perfectly, offering a low-fat and low-cholesterol option that’s incredibly convenient. It’s also gluten-free, which is a nice bonus. Just reconstitute it with water, and you have instant buttermilk, ready to work its wonders in your baking. It’s truly one of the best milk alternatives for baking when you need that specific buttermilk effect.

Key Features that stand out (Bold):
* Low fat and cholesterol
* Specifically for baking and cooking
* Gluten free
* Powdered form for convenience and shelf-stability
* Cultured for authentic buttermilk properties

Pros:
* -Provides the essential tang and acidity of buttermilk, crucial for certain recipes.
* -Excellent for leavening with baking soda, ensuring light and fluffy results.
* -Shelf-stable and convenient, eliminating the need for fresh buttermilk.
* -Low in fat and cholesterol.
* -Gluten-free, expanding its use to more diets.

Cons:
* -The flavor and properties are very specific, making it less versatile than other milk alternatives.

Best for: Bakers who frequently use buttermilk in their recipes but want the convenience and shelf-stability of a powdered form, ensuring perfect leavening and classic tangy flavor.

Expert Opinion: Saco Buttermilk Powder is indispensable for any serious baker. Its ability to replicate fresh buttermilk’s acidic properties for leavening and flavor is unmatched in a shelf-stable format, making it crucial for biscuits, pancakes, and certain cakes.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When choosing among the best milk alternatives for baking, it really comes down to what your recipe needs and your dietary preferences. We’ve looked at several fantastic options, and while they all serve as milk substitutes, their impact on your baked goods varies significantly.

For traditional dairy flavor and richness, both Medley Hills Farm Whole Milk Powder and Kate Naturals Dry Whole Milk Powder are top contenders. They excel in recipes where you want that classic creamy taste and texture, like breads, cakes, and custards. The key difference here is that Kate Naturals explicitly highlights its bread machine compatibility, which is a significant benefit for home bread makers. Both are convenient, shelf-stable dairy options, perfect for reducing waste.

If you’re focused on dairy-free and vegan baking, the coconut milk options truly shine. Anthony’s Organic Coconut Milk Powder offers incredible versatility. Because it’s a powder, you can control the concentration, making it ideal for recipes where you want to add richness without too much liquid, or for thickening batters. It also brings a subtle coconut flavor. On the other hand, Simply Asia Unsweetened Coconut Milk and Praohom Coconut Milk provide the liquid, creamy consistency directly. Simply Asia is great for larger batches and its consistent performance, while Praohom is praised for its silky smoothness and pure, additive-free profile, making it perfect for when texture is paramount in things like mousses or very moist cakes.

Then we have the specialized alternatives. Goat Milk Powder is a unique offering, ideal for those seeking a lower-lactose dairy option or a subtle, slightly different flavor profile. It brings a gentle creaminess and a nutritional boost. It’s less common but surprisingly versatile for a delicate flavor addition. Finally, Saco Cultured Buttermilk Powder stands in a league of its own. It’s not a general milk substitute but a specific ingredient crucial for recipes that rely on buttermilk’s acidity for leavening and tang, like biscuits, pancakes, and certain cakes. It’s indispensable for achieving that classic fluffy, tender crumb.

Consider the flavor profile: Coconut milk alternatives will impart a tropical note, which works beautifully in many desserts and some savory bakes, but might clash with others. Whole milk powders provide a neutral, classic dairy flavor. Goat milk powder is mild but distinct. Buttermilk powder delivers a signature tang.

Think about shelf-life and convenience: All the powdered options (Anthony’s, Medley Hills, Kate Naturals, Goat Milk Powder, Saco) offer excellent shelf-stability and are great pantry staples. The canned coconut milks (Simply Asia, Praohom) are also shelf-stable until opened, providing a ready-to-use liquid format.

Ultimately, the “best” choice among these best milk alternatives for baking depends on your specific recipe and dietary requirements. For versatility and dairy-free options, a coconut milk product (powder or liquid) is excellent. For classic dairy flavor and texture, whole milk powders are unbeatable. And for that specific tang and lift, buttermilk powder is a must-have.

Final Verdict

After thoroughly exploring these best milk alternatives for baking, it’s clear that your ideal choice will be a personal one, driven by your recipe’s demands and dietary considerations.

If dairy-free versatility and organic quality are your top priorities, Anthony’s Organic Coconut Milk Powder is a brilliant investment. Its powdered form allows for incredible control over consistency and its shelf-stable nature makes it a reliable pantry staple for various vegan bakes.

For the traditional baker who wants classic dairy richness and ultimate convenience, you can’t go wrong with either Medley Hills Farm Whole Milk Powder or Kate Naturals Dry Whole Milk Powder. Both deliver that familiar creamy taste, with Kate Naturals getting a slight edge for its explicit bread machine compatibility.

When a recipe absolutely calls for liquid coconut milk with uncompromised creaminess, Praohom Coconut Milk truly impresses with its silky smoothness and pure, additive-free profile, while Simply Asia Unsweetened Coconut Milk offers consistent performance for a broader range of uses.

And for those unique baking needs, Goat Milk Powder provides a gentle, nutrient-rich dairy alternative that’s often easier to digest. Finally, for that essential tangy lift in your biscuits and pancakes, Saco Cultured Buttermilk Powder is simply non-negotiable – a true secret weapon for achieving perfect texture and flavor.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Keeping a few of these best milk alternatives for baking in your pantry will ensure you’re always ready to tackle any recipe, adapting to various dietary needs and elevating your baked goods to new heights.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What are the primary benefits of using milk alternatives for baking?
A1: The main benefits include accommodating dietary restrictions like dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, or vegan diets. Many alternatives also offer unique flavor profiles and textures that can enhance specific baked goods. Powdered best milk alternatives for baking also provide extended shelf-life and convenience, reducing food waste.

Q2: How do I substitute liquid milk alternatives for dairy milk in recipes?
A2: For most liquid milk alternatives like canned coconut milk, you can typically substitute them in a 1:1 ratio for cow’s milk. However, be mindful of the fat content and flavor. Higher fat alternatives (like full-fat coconut milk) can add richness, while unsweetened options prevent unwanted sweetness. Always check the recipe for specific instructions if available.

Q3: What’s the advantage of using powdered milk alternatives over liquid ones?
A3: Powdered best milk alternatives for baking offer superior shelf-stability, taking up less pantry space and reducing waste. They also allow for greater control over the final consistency of your batter or dough, as you can adjust the amount of water added during reconstitution. This is especially useful in recipes where moisture content is critical.

Q4: Will using a milk alternative significantly change the flavor of my baked goods?
A4: Yes, some milk alternatives will impart a distinct flavor. Coconut milk, for instance, will add a subtle tropical note. Goat milk powder has a mild but unique flavor. Neutral-tasting alternatives like some nut milks (not reviewed here but common) or reconstituted whole milk powders will have the least impact on flavor, mimicking traditional dairy closely. It’s important to choose an alternative whose flavor profile complements your recipe.

Q5: Can I use any of these milk alternatives in a bread machine?
A5: Yes, specifically Kate Naturals Dry Whole Milk Powder highlights its bread machine compatibility. When using other powdered alternatives, you’ll need to reconstitute them first according to package directions before adding them as the liquid component in your bread machine recipe. For liquid alternatives like canned coconut milk, ensure your recipe accounts for any additional fat content.

Q6: What’s the best milk alternative for gluten-free baking?
A6: All the milk alternatives reviewed here are naturally gluten-free or specifically labeled as such. Both Anthony’s Organic Coconut Milk Powder and Saco Cultured Buttermilk Powder are verified gluten-free. As long as your other ingredients are gluten-free, any of these best milk alternatives for baking can be safely incorporated into your gluten-free recipes.

Q7: How does buttermilk powder work, and when should I use it?
A7: Buttermilk powder, like Saco Cultured Buttermilk Powder, provides the acidity of traditional buttermilk in a shelf-stable form. This acidity reacts with baking soda in your recipe, creating carbon dioxide bubbles that give baked goods a light, airy texture and a characteristic tangy flavor. It’s essential for recipes like buttermilk biscuits, pancakes, red velvet cake, and some quick breads where a tender crumb and specific leavening action are desired.