Is Coconut Milk Powder The Same As Coconut Flour?

As people move away from mainstream ingredients, looking for more whole and healthy alternatives, there are a number of new products that sound the same but aren’t. Coconut milk powder and coconut flour are often confused, but they’re actually quite different. We’ve rounded up a bit of information on the two ingredients to help you understand them better. Take a look below to find out more.

What is coconut milk powder?

Coconut milk powder is formed from dehydrating the coconut milk and meat, preserving all of the fats, and blitzing it into a fine powder. Coconut powder is an easier way to store and use coconut milk as it’s more shelf stable. Adding coconut milk powder to water means you can make as much or as little coconut milk as you want, and it can be added to recipes like regular milk powder would be.

Coconut milk powder sometimes has other powdered milk, casein and additives added to it meaning it’s not always a suitable vegan alternative, dairy free coconut milk power is available though.

What is coconut flour?

Coconut flour differs from coconut milk powder in a few ways. Coconut flour is a grain-free flour and is made by removing most of the liquids and fats from the meat of the coconut. This is then milled into a powder.

Coconut flour is a great gluten free alternative and can be used as a replacement for wheat-based flour in lots of recipes. 

Is coconut milk powder the same as coconut flour?

As discussed above, there are a few differences between coconut milk powder and coconut flour. While coconut milk powder contains most of the fats found in the coconut meat, and can be used similarly to regular powdered milk, coconut flour cannot. Coconut flour is used mainly as a flour replacement and does not contain the fats that coconut milk powder does. 

Is coconut milk powder keto friendly?

Coconut milk powder is generally considered keto-friendly, provided there are no added sugars. Keto diets focus on high fat and low carb foods, meaning coconut milk powder can be consumed on this kind of diet. As some coconut milk powder has added sugars, additives and milk proteins, it is always best to check the label before consuming.

Where can I buy coconut milk powder?

With all this talk of different kinds of powdered coconut, you may be wondering where to buy coconut powder from in Australia. There are several brands that stock this healthy alternative and we’ve listed a few below. 

• Niulife stocks coconut milk powder, along with a variety of other coconut based products, including coconut flour. The company is an Australian based ethical brand with a focus on giving back to their communities.
• AOP stocks a natural coconut milk powder in three different sizes, 500g, 1kg and 1.8kg.
• And for a spicy and exciting option, Sol Ghee stock this coconut milk powder blend that can be enjoyed as a warm drink or added to your smoothies. 

Where can I buy coconut flour?

Now that you know the difference between coconut milk powder and coconut flour, you may be wondering where you buy this fantastic flour alternative. We’ve gathered a few great products into a list, check them out here. 

• Lotus stock organic coconut flour which is vegetarian and GMO free, as well as gluten free.
• Nutra Organics Wholefood Pantry stocks coconut flour in a range of sizes, along with plenty of other whole and organic pantry essentials.
• Organic Times, an Australian based family business, stocks organic coconut flour which is vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free.

 All of these brands are available online and for delivery across Australia. 

Conclusion

Coconut milk powder and coconut flour differ in various ways. Coconut flour is a grain-free flour alternative that does not contain the fats found in coconut meat. Coconut milk powder is dehydrated coconut milk, can be used like other milk powders, and sometimes has added sugars, casein and additives. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is coconut flour and coconut powder same?

Coconut flour differs from coconut powder as coconut flour is a gluten-free alternative to flour, whereas coconut powder is dehydrated coconut milk, milled into a powder. Coconut flour does not contain the fats found in coconut milk and is suitable for those on a gluten free diet. Coconut powder is sometimes mixed with milk powders, additives and has added sugars. 

Can I substitute coconut flour for coconut powder?

Coconut flour and coconut powder cannot be substituted for each other as their composition differs slightly. While coconut flour is finely milled and has all of the fats and liquid removed, coconut powder contains the fats and sugars found in coconuts and is generally used a substitute for regular milk powder. 

What can I use instead of coconut milk powder?

Regular milk powder can be used in place of coconut milk powder as they’re formed similarly. Non-powdered coconut milk can be used if powdered is not available. Likewise, yoghurt and silken tofu can both be used in place of coconut milk powder, provided the recipe calls for coconut milk powder to be rehydrated. 

What is coconut milk powder used for?

Coconut milk powder is generally used as a replacement for regular milk powder. It can also be used to make golden milk, a paleo recipe that mixes cinnamon and turmeric. Coconut milk powder can used in sauces and smoothies, and as a glaze on cakes and donuts.