Milk
Dairy
Functions
Dietary Info
Allergen Warning
About Milk
Milk is a versatile dairy ingredient that plays a crucial role in baking due to its multi-functional properties. It adds moisture and tenderness to baked goods, contributing to a soft crumb and desirable texture. The proteins in milk help with structure, while its natural sugars enhance flavor and promote browning. Its mild, creamy flavor profile complements both sweet and savory recipes, making it a staple in various baked goods like cookies, cakes, and breads. For home bakers, milk is an essential ingredient that enhances richness and adds nutritional value to their creations.
History
Milk has been a staple in human diets for thousands of years, with evidence of its consumption dating back to the domestication of dairy animals around 8000 BCE in the Middle East. Its integration into baking became more pronounced as baking techniques evolved in Europe, where it was used to enrich doughs and batters. By the 19th century, milk was a common ingredient in Western baking, thanks to advancements in dairy farming and preservation methods like pasteurization. An interesting historical fact is that before refrigeration, milk was often consumed as buttermilk, a by-product of butter churning, which also found its way into many traditional baked recipes.
Common Uses
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