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Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe

Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe - Easy Meals To Cook

Sweetened condensed milk is a beloved ingredient in many desserts, lending its rich, creamy texture and sweetness to treats from ice cream to baked goods. Have you ever found yourself in the middle of a recipe that calls for this golden elixir, only to realize you’re out? Don’t worry! 
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 130
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract this enhances sweetness and adds warmth
  • A pinch of fine sea salt this balances and elevates the flavors

Method
 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
  1. Before you start, make sure you have all your ingredients measured out and ready to go. It’s always a good idea to prep ahead. You’ll thank yourself when you start cooking!
Step 2: Combine Sugar and Milk
  1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and milk. Stir together on low heat until the sugar completely dissolves. You’ll notice the mixture begins to look more uniform.
Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
  1. Once dissolved, increase the heat to medium. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You do not want it to boil; just let it bubble slightly. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent it from scorching.
Step 4: Reduce the Mixture
  1. Continue to simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. It should reduce in volume but remain pourable. This is where the magic happens—the water content evaporates, concentrating the flavors.
Step 5: Add Vanilla and Salt
  1. Once it thickens, remove it from the heat and stir in your vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. These ingredients will enhance the flavor profile considerably.
Step 6: Cool and Store
  1. Let the mixture cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will thicken further. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container.

Notes

  • Don’t rush the process: Allowing it to simmer slowly will ensure you get that perfect thickness and flavor.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This helps distribute heat evenly and reduces the risk of scorching.
  • Hang in there while it cooks: It has a tendency to seem too thin until it’s completely cooled, so don’t be alarmed!
  • Store it in the fridge: Homemade sweetened condensed milk can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Experiment with flavors: Consider adding a touch of almond extract or even a bit of coconut milk for a fun twist.