Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk 🥛🍯
Rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet—this 4-ingredient DIY version tastes just like store-bought but without additives! Use it for desserts, coffee, or drizzling over fruit.
Ingredients (Makes ~1.5 cups)
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2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or 1 cup milk + 1 cup heavy cream for extra richness)
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¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
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2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
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1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
1. Simmer
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In a saucepan, combine milk and sugar. Heat over medium-low, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Reduce
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Once simmering, lower heat to low. Stir occasionally and cook for 45–60 mins until reduced by half (mixture should coat the back of a spoon).
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Tip: Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
3. Finish
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Remove from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla until smooth.
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Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if needed.
4. Cool & Store
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Let cool completely (it thickens as it cools). Transfer to a jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Success
✔ Stir frequently to prevent scorching.
✔ Shortcut: Use powdered milk (1 cup milk powder + ½ cup hot water + ¾ cup sugar).
✔ Dairy-free? Swap milk for coconut milk (full-fat) and butter for coconut oil.
Why Make It Yourself?
✅ Cheaper than canned versions.
✅ Customizable sweetness (adjust sugar to taste).
✅ No preservatives—pure, creamy goodness!
Uses:
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Desserts: Tres leches cake, fudge, flan.
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Coffee: Vietnamese iced coffee, caramel lattes.
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Drizzle: Pancakes, toast, or fresh berries.
Need a thicker version? Simmer longer (up to 70 mins). Want chocolate? Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder with the butter! 😊