If you’ve ever reached for a can only to realize you’re out, or simply crave a version that’s fresh and under your control, Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk is a revelation you’ll adore! This luscious, creamy staple comes together with just a handful of pantry ingredients, transforming simple milk and sugar into a rich, silky treat. Its versatility will have you drizzling, swirling, and baking it into everything from coffee and pies to ice cream. Trust me, once you taste the homemade version, that little canned guy just won’t cut it anymore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk lies in its unfussy lineup—each ingredient plays a vital role, bringing unique richness and a perfectly sweet finish. With just a few essentials, you’ll whip up something truly crave-worthy!
- Whole Milk: The foundation of our recipe, whole milk lends creaminess and fullness you can truly taste in every spoonful.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness central! Sugar helps the milk condense into that signature, syrupy texture while adding just the right hit of sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: This brings a lovely buttery undertone and extra silky-smooth finish—don’t skip it!
- Baking Soda: Just a pinch keeps the milk from curdling during simmering, ensuring a velvety, lump-free result.
- Vanilla Extract: That irresistible touch of warmth and aroma—vanilla adds depth, making your condensed milk taste simply divine.
How to Make Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk
Step 1: Combine Milk and Sugar
Start by pouring the whole milk and granulated sugar into a medium-sized saucepan. Give everything a gentle stir as you heat it over medium. The goal here is to dissolve the sugar completely before things get too steamy—literally! You’ll know you’re on the right track when the mixture is smooth and just beginning to warm through.
Step 2: Simmer Away
Once the sugar is dissolved and the milk mixture begins to gently steam, dial the heat down to low. Now, let it bubble away at a gentle simmer (think polite, quiet bubbles) for about 30 to 40 minutes. Stir every so often, paying closer attention as it thickens. The liquid will reduce by about half, becoming creamy and pale gold. Patience here is key—the slower the simmer, the better your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk will turn out!
Step 3: Stir in the Good Stuff
When your mixture has thickened nicely, remove the pot from the heat. Drop in the unsalted butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract. As you stir, you’ll see it transform into an ultra-smooth, shiny mixture that smells incredible. The baking soda will also keep things perfectly silky, while that touch of vanilla makes all the difference.
Step 4: Cool and Thicken
Let your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk cool right in the pan or pour it into a heat-safe jar. As it cools, the milk will thicken up considerably, so don’t fret if it’s still a bit loose at first. Once completely cool, it’s ready to use or store—but good luck not sneaking a taste right away!
How to Serve Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk
Garnishes
You can sprinkle a touch of sea salt over your finished Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk for a salted caramel effect, or dust it with a hint of cinnamon or cocoa powder for a flavor twist. Even a few grated citrus zest curls can make it pop in a fresh direction—your creativity is the only limit!
Side Dishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a warm biscuit, fresh strawberries, or a slice of pound cake paired alongside. Dip, drizzle, or spoon the milk on top for a decadent breakfast, brunch, or dessert experience. It’s a natural companion for fruit salads or even warm oatmeal!
Creative Ways to Present
Serving Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk in tiny glass jars or pouring it into a pretty creamer pitcher makes it feel extra special. If you’re gifting, tie a ribbon around a sealed jar and add a handwritten label—it’s an instant hit. You can even swirl it through yogurt parfaits in clear glasses for a stunning visual (and flavor!) upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After making a fresh batch of Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk, let it cool fully, then transfer it to a clean, airtight container. Pop it in the refrigerator, and it’ll keep perfectly for up to one week—just give it a quick stir before using, especially if it’s been sitting for a couple of days.
Freezing
Yes, you can actually freeze Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk! Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top. Thaw overnight in the fridge when needed. It may separate slightly, but a quick whisk brings it right back to a smooth, luscious consistency.
Reheating
If your chilled condensed milk has thickened a bit too much, gently reheat it in a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat on the stovetop. Stir frequently and stop as soon as it reaches your desired pourability—no need to boil, just a little warmth will do the trick!
FAQs
Can I make Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute whole milk with your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk (like coconut or almond for richness). You may need to simmer a little longer for that classic thickness, but the process works beautifully.
How can I tell when it’s done simmering?
Your mixture should reduce by half and coat the back of a spoon, with a creamy, slightly thickened texture. Don’t worry if it seems a bit loose—Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk sets up more as it cools.
Why do you add baking soda?
Baking soda helps prevent the milk from curdling during the slow simmer and gives your finished condensed milk an extra smooth, creamy mouthfeel. It’s a tiny step with a big payoff!
Is this the same as evaporated milk?
Nope! While both are concentrated milks, Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk contains sugar and is much sweeter and thicker. Evaporated milk is unsweetened and more fluid, so they’re not direct substitutes in recipes.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Definitely. If you prefer a less-sweet version, start with a little less sugar and taste as you go. Just keep in mind the sugar also helps create the lovely thick texture, so don’t cut back too much.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk in your own kitchen. It’s a little labor of love that pays off big in flavor, texture, and pure comfort. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked—happy simmering!
Print
Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make a rich and creamy homemade sweetened condensed milk with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for adding sweetness to your favorite desserts!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture begins to steam.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces by about half and thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter, baking soda, and vanilla extract until smooth. Allow to cool completely; it will thicken further as it cools.
- Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute half-and-half for part of the milk.
- This recipe yields about 1 cup of condensed milk, equivalent to one 14-ounce can.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
