Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
If you have ever wished for a rich, creamy, and sweet ingredient to elevate your desserts, drinks, or baking, then this Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe is your new best friend. It’s delightfully simple to make with just a handful of pantry staples, yet it brings an irresistible depth of flavor and luscious texture that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Whether drizzled over fresh fruit or stirred into your coffee, this homemade concoction will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is easy, and each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect creamy sweetness. From the richness of whole milk to the smooth boost from butter, every element contributes to the texture, flavor, and color of your Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe.
- Whole milk: The base of your condensed milk, providing creaminess and body to the final product.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps thicken the milk as it reduces for that classic condensed milk flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Adds decadence and a silky finish, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (optional): Infuses a subtle, warm aroma that enhances the overall taste.
How to Make Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
Step 1: Combine Milk and Sugar
Start by pouring the whole milk into a small saucepan along with the granulated sugar. Gently heat the mixture over medium-low while stirring continuously. This ensures the sugar dissolves evenly, setting the stage for a smooth, sweet base without any graininess.
Step 2: Simmer the Mixture
Once the sugar has fully dissolved, bring the milk mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep the heat steady and avoid boiling. Stir frequently for 30 to 35 minutes until the liquid reduces by about half and thickens slightly. This slow reduction concentrates the sweetness and creates that signature luscious texture.
Step 3: Add Butter and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter until it melts completely, giving the condensed milk a rich, velvety finish. If you like, add half a teaspoon of vanilla extract to infuse a delicate flavor that complements many desserts and drinks beautifully.
Step 4: Cool and Store
Allow your homemade condensed milk to cool at room temperature. Then, transfer it to a clean jar or airtight container. It’s ready to use immediately but also keeps nicely in the refrigerator for up to one week, making it convenient to have on hand whenever you crave that sweet touch.
How to Serve Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
Garnishes
This creamy treat is absolutely divine drizzled over fresh berries, sliced bananas, or even a warm slice of pie. Its sticky sweetness adds a luxurious shine and melt-in-your-mouth texture that instantly upgrades any simple dessert.
Side Dishes
Pair your homemade condensed milk with spiced nuts, crispy waffles, or fluffy pancakes. It also works beautifully alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as a dip for churros, turning ordinary snacks into heavenly indulgences.
Creative Ways to Present
Try folding it into whipped cream for an extra-sweet frosting or swirl it into coffee and hot chocolate for a cozy, cafe-style experience at home. You can even brush it over warm scones or use it as a filling in homemade pastries for a delightful surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your homemade condensed milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to one week, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it whenever your sweet tooth calls.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not generally recommended because the texture might change slightly once thawed. If you choose to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for the best quality.
Reheating
If your condensed milk thickens too much in the fridge, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to restore that smooth, pourable consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute whole milk with full-fat coconut milk and use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of regular butter. The result is a luscious, dairy-free condensed milk alternative perfect for any dietary preference.
Why do I need to avoid boiling the milk?
Boiling can cause the milk to scorch or curdle, which affects the flavor and texture. A gentle simmer allows the mixture to thicken evenly without compromising its silky smoothness.
How long does homemade condensed milk last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator in an airtight container, your homemade condensed milk will stay fresh for up to one week, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it in various dishes.
Can I make this recipe with low-fat milk?
While possible, whole milk is recommended because its higher fat content contributes to the creamy texture and rich flavor that makes condensed milk so special.
What are the best uses for this Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe?
This versatile ingredient shines in desserts like fudge, cakes, and pies, in coffee and tea for added sweetness and creaminess, or simply as a luscious drizzle over fruit and pastries.
Final Thoughts
Making your own condensed milk at home is a rewarding and simple way to add a touch of luxury to your cooking and baking. This Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe combines just a few everyday ingredients with a little patience to deliver a deliciously smooth and sweet treat. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover all the delightful possibilities it opens up in your kitchen!
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Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade condensed milk recipe offers a simple way to create a rich, sweetened milk perfect for coffee, desserts, and baking. Made by gently simmering whole milk and sugar until reduced and thickened, then enriched with butter and optional vanilla extract, it provides a creamy texture and indulgent flavor without any preservatives or additives.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- â…” cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Milk and Sugar: In a small saucepan, pour the whole milk and add the granulated sugar. Stir to combine before heating.
- Heat and Dissolve Sugar: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar fully dissolves without bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer and Reduce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, the liquid will reduce by about half and thicken slightly.
- Remove from Heat and Add Butter: Once the mixture has reduced and thickened, take it off the heat. Stir in the unsalted butter until it melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth.
- Add Vanilla Extract: If using, stir in the vanilla extract to add depth of flavor.
- Cool and Store: Allow the homemade condensed milk to cool before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- This homemade condensed milk can be used in coffee, desserts, or any baking recipes calling for sweetened condensed milk.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with full-fat coconut milk and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Do not let the mixture boil as it may scorch or curdle the milk.
- Stirring frequently prevents the milk and sugar from burning on the bottom of the pan.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Universal
