If you’ve ever found yourself in the middle of a baking project only to realize you’re out of that pantry essential, sweetened condensed milk, then this Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s a wonderfully simple way to whip up your own creamy, luscious condensed milk right on the stovetop. Not only does it taste incredibly fresh compared to store-bought versions, but you also have full control over the ingredients, making it perfect for customizing flavor and richness. Whether you’re making pies, fudge, or a luscious coffee treat, this recipe will make your desserts shine with that irresistibly sweet and velvety touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating condensed milk from scratch relies on a handful of pantry staples, each playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and creaminess. These ingredients are straightforward but essential.
- 1 cup whole milk: The foundation providing creaminess and body to your condensed milk.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the mixture as it cooks down.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional): Enhances richness and gives a silky mouthfeel, but you can skip it if you prefer.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Adds a warm, inviting flavor that elevates the final product.
How to Make Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
Step 1: Combine Milk and Sugar
Start by pouring the whole milk and granulated sugar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently but constantly to dissolve the sugar completely. This step is key to ensuring a smooth, lump-free condensed milk without any graininess.
Step 2: Simmer and Reduce
Once the sugar dissolves, reduce your heat to low and allow the mixture to gently simmer. Stir occasionally as it thickens and reduces by about half, usually around 35 to 45 minutes. Patience here rewards you with that rich, creamy consistency that makes this Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe so special — just be careful not to let it boil, which can cause curdling.
Step 3: Add Butter and Vanilla
After removing your saucepan from heat, stir in the optional unsalted butter and vanilla extract. These finishing touches add depth to the flavor and a luxurious texture, giving your homemade condensed milk a professional edge.
Step 4: Cool and Store
Let the mixture cool slightly before transferring it into a clean jar or container. As it cools, it will thicken even more, creating that perfect creamy texture ready for your favorite recipes.
How to Serve Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
Garnishes
This smooth and sweet condensed milk is fantastic drizzled over desserts like fresh berries, cakes, or ice cream. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few crushed nuts complements its creamy sweetness and invites even more flavor to the plate.
Side Dishes
While condensed milk often shines in sweets, try pairing a dollop alongside a spicy fruit chutney or a rich, dark chocolate dessert to create a balancing contrast. It’s also fantastic as a drizzle on pancakes or waffles for a breakfast treat that feels indulgent yet homemade.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just pouring it on top of dishes: swirl your homemade condensed milk into coffee or hot chocolate for natural sweetness, or use it as a base for creamy sauces and frostings. It also works wonders stirred into yogurt or oatmeal for an easy upgrade to everyday meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your homemade condensed milk fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to one week, maintaining its taste and texture well, ready whenever you need a sweet boost in your recipes.
Freezing
You can freeze homemade condensed milk if you want to extend its shelf life — just pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before use, though note that texture might slightly change, so stirring well before use is recommended.
Reheating
If your condensed milk thickens too much in the fridge or freezer, gently warm it over low heat while stirring. This will loosen the texture without compromising flavor, making it easy to incorporate into your desserts or beverages.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without butter?
Absolutely! Butter adds extra richness, but it’s entirely optional. Your homemade condensed milk will still taste delicious and have a great texture without it.
Is there a way to make a dairy-free version?
Yes, substitute canned full-fat coconut milk for whole milk and follow the same process. The flavor will be slightly different but equally luscious, perfect for those avoiding dairy.
How long does homemade condensed milk last?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last up to one week. Always keep it in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other smells.
Can I use this recipe as a direct substitute for store-bought condensed milk?
Definitely! Use it in a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for canned sweetened condensed milk. It works beautifully in baking, cooking, and beverages.
What’s the key to preventing the milk from boiling over or curdling?
Keep the heat low once the sugar dissolves and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Avoid rapid boiling as it can spoil the texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about making a pantry staple like condensed milk from scratch, and this Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe offers simplicity, flavor, and flexibility all in one pot. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just love experimenting in the kitchen, giving this a try will add a delicious homemade touch to your desserts and drinks. So go ahead, cook up this magic, and watch your treats reach a whole new level of yum!
Print
Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 3/4 cup 1x
- Category: Condiment, Baking Ingredient
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade condensed milk recipe offers a simple and rich alternative to canned sweetened condensed milk, made by gently simmering milk and sugar until thickened to a luscious, creamy consistency. Perfect as a baking ingredient or a pantry staple for desserts, this version can be customized with butter and vanilla for enhanced flavor and richness.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for richness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
Instructions
- Combine Milk and Sugar: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and sugar. Stir constantly to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
- Simmer Mixture: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 35–45 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time and monitor carefully to prevent boiling, until the mixture thickens and reduces by about half.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract if using, to enhance flavor and richness.
- Cool and Store: Allow the condensed milk to cool slightly, then transfer it to a clean jar or container. It will thicken further as it cools. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
- This recipe can be used as a 1:1 substitute for canned sweetened condensed milk in any recipe.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with full-fat canned coconut milk and follow the same cooking method.
