How to Make High Protein Powder

Protein powder is a good way to bump up overall protein intake, and the powder is easily mixed into smoothies and shakes. Commercially produced protein powders are available in a wide range of concentrations and flavors, however, they also tend to be very expensive. Protein powder is typically made of whey, which is the lactose-based liquid portion of curdled milk, usually a byproduct of yogurt or cheese-making. Although it is somewhat time consuming, preparing powdered whey protein at home is quite simple and cost-effective.

Things You'll Need

• 1 liter all-natural yogurt
• Cheesecloth
• Colander
• Large bowl
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment or wax paper
• Mortar and pestle, coffee grinder or food processor
• Storage container with tight fitting lid

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Instructions

• 1

  Line the colander with several layers of cheesecloth, and place the colander inside the large bowl. Pour the all-natural yogurt inside the colander, and place the yogurt, colander and bowl inside the refrigerator overnight.

• 2

  There will be a solid portion (yogurt cheese) and a liquid portion (whey) in the colander and bowl the next morning. Remove the whey from the bowl, pour it into the saucepan and place it on the stove.

• 3

  Bring the whey to a boil, stirring frequently with the wooden spoon. Reduce the heat and simmer the whey until it turns golden brown in color, which may take several hours depending on the quantity of whey.

• 4

  Line the cookie sheet with parchment or wax paper, and carefully pour the thickened whey onto the cookie sheet. Let it cool and set completely, which will take about one hour.

• 5

  Break the hardened whey into small pieces, no larger than 2 inches. Allow these pieces to air dry at room temperature for several weeks. The pieces will become lighter in color as they dry.

• 6

  Grind the dried whey into a fine powder, using either the mortar and pestle, the coffee grinder or the food processor. A combination of several of these grinding methods can be used to achieve the proper protein powder consistency. Pour the whey powder into the container, replace the lid and store in a cool, dry place.