If you’ve ever wished for a rich, luscious sweetener that elevates your desserts to a whole new level, this Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe is just the treasure you need. It’s a simple, comforting kitchen staple that brings that perfect creamy sweetness with no canned shortcuts, and once you try making it yourself, you’ll find it hard to go back. Homemade condensed milk not only tastes fresher but also lets you control the ingredients, making it a wholesome addition to everything from coffee to cakes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of everyday ingredients is all it takes to make your own Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe. Each one plays an important role: the milk offers the rich creaminess, sugar gives the sweetness and smooth texture, butter adds a lovely velvety finish, and vanilla injects that warm, familiar aroma.
- 2 cups whole milk: The creamy base that forms the heart of the condensed milk, whole milk is key to that rich texture.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture perfectly while helping it thicken to that signature consistency.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds smoothness and a subtle hint of creaminess to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting flavor that makes the condensed milk irresistibly fragrant.
How to Make Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
Step 1: Combine Milk and Sugar
Start by pouring the milk and granulated sugar into a medium saucepan. Whisk gently to combine so the sugar starts dissolving even before the heat hits. This step sets the stage for smooth sweetened condensed milk without any graininess.
Step 2: Bring to a Gentle Simmer
Place your saucepan over medium-low heat and bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer. Keep stirring frequently as the sugar dissolves completely. This patient approach prevents scorching and ensures an even thickness later on.
Step 3: Simmer to Thicken
Reduce the heat to low and leave the pan uncovered, allowing the milk to gently reduce for 35 to 45 minutes. Keep stirring often to stop it from sticking or burning. You’ll notice it thickening and reducing by about half, developing that familiar glossy texture.
Step 4: Stir in Butter and Vanilla
Once your condensed milk has thickened beautifully, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined. These final touches enhance the creaminess and add a wonderful flavor boost.
Step 5: Cool Completely Before Storing
Let your homemade condensed milk cool completely in the pan, during which it will thicken even more. When it’s ready, transfer it to a jar or airtight container. Now you have a fresh, homemade sweet condensed milk ready to elevate your recipes.
How to Serve Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
Garnishes
This homemade condensed milk shines when drizzled over fresh fruit, like juicy berries or tropical mango slices, transforming simple snacks into decadent treats. It also pairs beautifully atop pancakes and waffles for a touch of indulgent sweetness.
Side Dishes
Use your Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe as a luscious companion to coffee or tea, adding just the right balance of creaminess and sweetness. It’s equally delightful mixed into oatmeal or spread alongside toast for an extra cozy breakfast moment.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the jar: swirl your homemade condensed milk into homemade ice cream or mix it into frostings for cakes and cupcakes. It also makes an amazing dip for churros or drizzled over homemade brownies to add that irresistible gooey sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your homemade condensed milk keeps beautifully chilled in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always use a clean spoon to scoop it out to maintain its freshness and delicious flavor.
Freezing
While freezing homemade condensed milk is possible, it’s best to store it fresh for optimal texture. If you do freeze it, keep it in a tightly sealed container and thaw slowly in the fridge to help it regain its creamy consistency.
Reheating
If your condensed milk becomes too thick after refrigeration, gently warm it in a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. This will restore its pourable texture without compromising flavor or smoothness.
FAQs
What is the difference between sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is evaporated milk with added sugar, giving it its thick, sweet profile, while evaporated milk contains no added sugar and is thinner and less sweet.
Can I use milk other than whole milk in this Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe?
Whole milk works best for richness and creaminess, but you can try 2% milk; however, lower fat milks may produce a thinner, less creamy result.
How long does homemade condensed milk last?
Stored properly in the fridge, homemade condensed milk can last up to one week. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before using.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
This particular recipe uses dairy, so it’s not vegan. However, you can experiment with plant-based milk and vegan butter to create a similar sweetened condensed milk alternative.
Can I use this Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe in baking?
Absolutely! It’s wonderful for baking, especially in recipes calling for sweetened condensed milk like fudge, pies, and cakes, adding that perfect sweetness and moisture.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe is such a rewarding experience that brings out the best in your favorite desserts, coffees, and snacks. Not only is it surprisingly simple, but the fresh flavor and creamy texture will have you reaching for this recipe again and again. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a beloved tool in your kitchen!
Print
Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/4 cups
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Homemade Condensed Milk is a simple and delicious sweetened condensed milk substitute made from whole milk, sugar, butter, and vanilla. Perfect for baking and desserts, this rich and creamy concoction is made by simmering and reducing milk and sugar until thickened, then enriched with butter and vanilla for extra flavor. A great pantry staple for those who want to avoid canned products or customize their sweetness and consistency.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine milk and sugar: Pour the milk and sugar into a medium saucepan and whisk to combine thoroughly.
- Heat mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to ensure the sugar fully dissolves without burning.
- Simmer and reduce: Reduce heat to low and continue simmering uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and reduces by about half in volume.
- Add butter and vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Cool and store: Allow the condensed milk to cool completely before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Use low heat and stir frequently to prevent scorching the milk and sugar mixture.
- This recipe makes sweetened condensed milk substitute, not evaporated milk.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
