If you’ve ever found yourself reaching for a can of sweetened condensed milk, only to wonder if there’s a way to make it from scratch at home, you’re in for a treat. This Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe is a simple yet magical concoction that transforms just a few pantry staples into a rich, creamy, and irresistibly luscious ingredient. It’s perfect for those moments when you crave that sweet, velvety touch in your desserts, coffees, or even your baking projects, giving you full control over the quality and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about this recipe is how uncomplicated the ingredient list is—each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and sweetness that defines sweetened condensed milk.
- 1 cup whole milk: Provides the rich, creamy base that’s essential for that smooth, luscious texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and thickens the milk as it reduces, giving it that signature decadence.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and depth, enhancing both flavor and mouthfeel.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): A touch of warmth and aromatic complexity that elevates the finished product.
How to Make Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe
Step 1: Dissolve Sugar in Milk
Start by combining whole milk and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously to ensure the sugar completely dissolves into the milk—this is the foundation for your creamy homemade condensed milk, and patience here helps everything blend beautifully.
Step 2: Simmer to Thicken
Once the sugar is fully dissolved, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the liquid to reduce by about half. This slow simmer evaporates water content, concentrating the sweetness and thickening the mixture to that perfect syrupy consistency you’re aiming for.
Step 3: Add Butter and Flavor
With the mixture thickened, stir in unsalted butter until it’s fully melted and incorporated, creating a velvety richness. If you love a hint of vanilla, now’s the time to add the optional 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, enhancing the flavor and lending that classic sweetened condensed milk aroma.
Step 4: Cool and Store
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow your homemade sweetened condensed milk to cool to room temperature. It will continue thickening as it cools. Transfer it into an airtight container and pop it into the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to one week, ready to enrich whatever delicious treats you have in mind.
How to Serve Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe
Garnishes
This dreamy condensed milk is fantastic drizzled over fresh fruit, pancakes, or waffles for an indulgent touch. Sprinkle with a little cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and aroma that will have everyone asking for your secret.
Side Dishes
Use this homemade treat alongside rich, fudgy brownies or a classic banana bread to add a luscious sweetness that perfectly balances the flavors. It’s especially splendid melting over warm pies or puddings, making every bite more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe into a divine dip for cookies or fruit skewers at your next gathering. Or swirl it into coffee and tea for a creamy, sweet pick-me-up that feels luxurious. The possibilities to impress are endless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your homemade condensed milk stores wonderfully in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Keep it chilled to maintain freshness and consistency for up to a week, perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings or last-minute recipe additions.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead in bulk, you can freeze your homemade sweetened condensed milk. Scoop it into an airtight container or freezer bag, leaving room for expansion. When frozen, it can last up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to use frozen condensed milk, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Warm gently over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently to restore that smooth, creamy texture without scorching or separating.
FAQs
Can I use milk alternatives for this recipe?
You can try plant-based milks like almond or oat milk, but results may vary since whole milk’s fat content contributes to the creamy texture typical of sweetened condensed milk. Adjust simmering times and keep a close eye on consistency for best results.
What happens if I cook the mixture too long?
Cooking too long can cause the mixture to become too thick or even caramelize, which introduces a deeper, almost butterscotch-like flavor. While some people enjoy this twist, it’s best to stick to the recommended time for classic sweetened condensed milk.
Can I reduce the sugar amount?
Reducing sugar will affect both the sweetness and the preservation quality. Sweetened condensed milk relies on sugar for its thickening and shelf-life. Feel free to tweak, but expect a thinner texture and shorter fridge life with less sugar.
Is the butter necessary in the recipe?
The butter imparts richness and a smooth finish, making the texture luxuriously creamy. If you’re avoiding dairy fat, you can omit it, but the final product might be slightly less silky.
How soon can I use the homemade sweetened condensed milk?
You can use it as soon as it cools to room temperature, though chilling will give it a better texture and thicker consistency. It’s wonderfully versatile both ways!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about creating your own Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe right in your kitchen with such simple ingredients. It elevates your desserts, drinks, and baked goods with a freshness and depth that canned versions just can’t match. Dive in, experiment a little, and enjoy the sweet rewards—you won’t look back!
Print
Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk recipe provides a rich, creamy alternative to store-bought versions using simple ingredients like whole milk, sugar, and butter. Perfect for baking, desserts, or coffee, this recipe is easy to make on the stovetop and yields about one cup of luscious sweetened condensed milk.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Combine milk and sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar fully dissolves, ensuring a smooth mixture.
- Simmer and reduce: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and to encourage even thickening. The mixture should reduce by about half and become noticeably thicker.
- Add butter and vanilla: Stir in the unsalted butter until it is completely melted and incorporated. If desired, add the vanilla extract at this stage to enhance the flavor.
- Cool and store: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the condensed milk to cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored in the fridge for up to one week.
Notes
- Stir frequently while simmering to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom of the pan.
- The butter adds richness and a smooth texture, but it can be omitted to make a lighter version.
- Vanilla extract is optional but recommended for a more flavorful end product.
- Use whole milk for the best creamy texture; lower fat milks may yield thinner condensed milk.
- If thicker condensed milk is desired, simmer a few minutes longer, but be careful not to burn it.
