Sweetened condensed milk is a powerhouse ingredient in countless desserts, adding a rich, creamy texture and unparalleled sweetness to everything from fudge to pies and beyond. While readily available in cans, did you know you can easily make it from scratch with just a few pantry staples? This Easy Condensed Milk Recipe is a game-changer, offering a fresher, often more economical alternative to store-bought versions. Get ready to unlock a new level of homemade deliciousness for all your favorite sweet treats!
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a big proponent of making things from scratch whenever possible, especially when it’s as simple and rewarding as this Easy Condensed Milk Recipe. What I love most is the sheer simplicity: just four ingredients transform into that luscious, thick, sweet liquid we all adore. There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from knowing exactly what’s in your food, and this recipe delivers on that front. Plus, having a batch of homemade condensed milk on hand opens up a world of dessert possibilities, from no-bake delights to creamy confections. It’s a fundamental ingredient that every home baker should know how to make!
List of Ingredients
To make your own delicious sweetened condensed milk, you’ll need just these four simple ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Swaps and Notes
- Milk: Whole milk is highly recommended for the best results due to its fat content, which contributes to the richness and creamy texture of the condensed milk. While lower-fat milks can be used, the final product may be less thick and luxurious.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard. You could experiment with part brown sugar for a slight caramel note, but it might alter the color.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the saltiness. If you only have salted butter, omit any additional salt you might think of adding, and taste before using in a recipe. The butter adds richness and helps with the smooth consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: The vanilla extract is added at the end to preserve its flavor. You can adjust the amount to your preference or omit it if you need unflavored condensed milk for a specific recipe.
- Yield: This recipe yields roughly 1.5 to 1.75 cups of condensed milk, which is equivalent to about one standard 14-ounce can. You can easily double or triple the recipe if you need a larger batch.
List of Steps for the Recipe
Follow these straightforward steps to make your own sweetened condensed milk:
- Combine Milk and Sugar: In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the 1 cup whole milk and 1 cup granulated sugar.
- Dissolve Sugar: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. Continue stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. This should take a few minutes. Don’t let it boil rapidly at this stage.
- Simmer and Reduce: Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. The goal is a gentle simmer, not a vigorous boil, to allow the milk to reduce and thicken without scorching. Stir occasionally, especially as it thickens, to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Add Butter: As the milk mixture visibly thickens and reduces, add the 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the butter has completely melted and is fully incorporated into the mixture.
- Remove from Heat & Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Cool Completely: Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature. It will thicken considerably as it cools, transforming into that familiar condensed milk consistency.
- Store: Once cooled, pour the homemade condensed milk into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Success
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This is crucial! A heavy-bottomed saucepan distributes heat more evenly and reduces the risk of the milk scorching or sticking to the bottom.
- Low and Slow: Patience is key. The low, gentle simmer allows the milk to reduce and thicken properly without burning. Resist the urge to turn up the heat to speed things up.
- Stir Frequently: Especially as the mixture begins to thicken, frequent stirring prevents a skin from forming on top and ensures the bottom doesn’t scorch.
- Cooling is Essential: The mixture will seem thinner when hot. Trust the process – it will thicken significantly as it cools. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look like condensed milk right off the stove.
- Clean the Sides: If sugar crystals form on the sides of the pan during simmering, use a wet pastry brush to brush them down into the liquid. This prevents crystallization in your final product.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Your homemade sweetened condensed milk is ready to elevate a multitude of desserts! Use it in:
- Fudge: For extra creamy, rich fudge.
- Pies & Tarts: Especially in no-bake cream pies.
- Ice Cream: As a base for homemade no-churn ice cream.
- Coffee & Tea: A spoonful adds luscious sweetness to your hot beverages.
- Drizzling: Over fresh fruit, pancakes, or waffles for a sweet treat.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store your homemade sweetened condensed milk in a clean, airtight container (like a glass jar with a lid) in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Due to its high sugar content, it preserves quite well. If you notice any discoloration or off-smell, it’s best to discard it. Freezing is generally not recommended as it can alter the texture.
More Recipes You Will Love
Now that you have fresh, homemade sweetened condensed milk, you’re perfectly equipped to make some incredible no-bake treats! Here are a few fantastic recipes where your condensed milk will shine:
- Craving something truly indulgent and no-bake? You’ll love This Edible Cookie Dough Is My Favorite No-Bake Treat For Late Night Cravings.
- For a quick and satisfying chocolate fix, my This Brownie Batter Dip Is My Favorite No-Bake Dessert For Instant Chocolate Cravings is a dream come true.
- If you need a healthy-ish snack that’s still delicious, check out These No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls Are My Favorite Snack To Keep On Hand.
- For little bites of joy, these These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites Are My Favorite Little Treat To Bake Anytime are perfect.
- And for an incredibly simple yet decadent dessert, don’t miss This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie Is My Favorite Quick Dessert Hack.
Final Thoughts
Making your own sweetened condensed milk is incredibly rewarding and gives you complete control over the ingredients. It’s a simple process with delicious results, and once you try it, you might never go back to canned again! This recipe truly opens up a world of homemade possibilities for your dessert creations.
What’s your favorite way to use sweetened condensed milk? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more amazing kitchen hacks and delicious recipes, be sure to follow Chef Maniac.
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