Creamy Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe

Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe lovers, you’re in for a treat! If you’ve ever wanted that rich, velvety goodness without the store-bought stuff, you’re about to discover just how easy—and satisfying—it is to make it right in your own kitchen. No preservatives, no mystery ingredients—just pure, creamy perfection made from scratch.

Whether you’re planning to drizzle it over desserts, swirl it into coffee, or whip up a decadent pie, this recipe will be your new go-to. So grab your saucepan, because once you taste this homemade magic, you’ll never go back to the canned version again.

What is Sweetened Condensed Milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is a thick, syrupy liquid made by removing most of the water from cow’s milk. Sugar is then added, making the milk sweet. This concoction originates from a process developed in the 19th century, aimed at preserving milk in a long-lasting form.

The Nutritional Profile

Before we dive into making this delicious treat, let’s look at what’s inside sweetened condensed milk. Typical values might vary based on brands, but here’s a general idea per tablespoon:

It’s a high-calorie ingredient since it carries a significant amount of sugar, which is the basis of its sweetness. So, understanding moderation is key when incorporating it into your diet.

The History of Sweetened Condensed Milk

The origin of sweetened condensed milk traces back to the late 1800s, pioneered by Gail Borden in the United States. He wanted a way to preserve milk without refrigeration. After several attempts and experiments, he developed a process that resulted in the sweetened condensed milk we know today.

During the mid-20th century, this ingredient skyrocketed in popularity. Its presence in world cuisines is vast, from Latin America to Southeast Asia. Each culture has its unique take, often adding local flavors or spices for an extra punch.

Why Make Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk?

There’s something truly special about handmade food. Here are a few reasons why you might consider making your own version:

• Control Over Ingredients: Make it exactly how you like it, whether that’s sweeter or less sweet.
• Quality Assurance: Use the best dairy and sugar, free from additives and preservatives.
• Uniqueness: You can add flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or even spices to customize your batch.

Ingredients Needed

Making creamy homemade sweetened condensed milk is simpler than you’d think. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Whole Milk: 2 cups. This gives the creaminess and richness.
• Sugar: 1 cup. Granulated or brown sugar can work.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons. This will add richness and depth.
• Vanilla Extract (optional): 1 teaspoon. A little extra flavor always helps!

The Recipe Of Sweetened Condensed Milk? Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to make your very own sweetened condensed milk.

Step 1: Ingredients Preparation

Start by gathering your ingredients. Measure them out so you won’t have to scramble halfway through the cooking process.

Step 2: Cooking the Milk Mixture

1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk and sugar over medium heat.
2. Stir the mixture to dissolve the sugar completely in the milk.
3. Once dissolved, reduce the heat to low and maintain a gentle simmer. Make sure not to boil, ’cause boiling can cause curdling!

Step 3: Reduce the Mixture

Allow the milk mixture to simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and scorching. You’ll notice the mixture thickening over time.

Step 4: Add Butter and vanilla

Once the milk has reduced and thickened, turn off the heat. Stir in the butter until melted and fully combined. If you wanna add vanilla extract for some extra flavor, this is the time!

Step 5: Let It Cool and Store

Let your creamy homemade sweetened condensed milk cool down. Once cool, pour into a clean jar or container. You can store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Tips for the Best Sweetened Condensed Milk

While making sweetened condensed milk might feel straightforward, a few tips can elevate your end product:

• Use Full-Fat Milk: It adds creaminess that’s hard to beat.
• Consistent Stirring: Keeps the mixture from burning and ensures even thickening.
• Taste As You Go: If you like it sweeter or with a stronger butter flavor, adjust to your liking!

Creative Uses for Sweetened Condensed Milk

The beauty of homemade sweetened condensed milk lies in its versatility. Here are some fantastic uses:

• Beverages: Use it to sweeten coffee, tea, or even cocktails for a creamy twist.
• Desserts: Perfect for pies, cakes, or even drizzling over ice cream.
• Candy Making: Handy for fudge, caramels, or as a base for homemade candies.
• Dressing & Sauces: It can even serve as a base for salad dressings or glazes.

Storage Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness

To ensure your homemade sweetened condensed milk stays as fresh as the day you made it, here’s a handy guide:

1. Container: Store it in a glass jar or an airtight plastic container. Glass keeps the milk fresher and is better for long-term storage.
2. Refrigeration: Always refrigerate homemade versions. They don’t have preservatives like store-bought ones.
3. Freezing: If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Pour into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag. This can keep it fresh for up to three months!

Cooking with Sweetened Condensed Milk

Let’s dig deeper into some specific recipes where sweetened condensed milk shines! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Classic Tres Leches Cake

This Latin American dessert is soaked in three kinds of milk, including sweetened condensed milk. The result? A moist, creamy delight you won’t soon forget!

Creamy Flan

Prepare a rich, creamy flan using sweetened condensed milk as the base. The result is a velvety dessert with a caramel topping that’s to die for!

Chocolate Fudge

Combine sweetened condensed milk with chocolate chips and nuts for quick, delicious fudge. It’s a perfect treat to impress your friends and family.

Vietnamese Coffee

Combine strong brewed coffee and sweetened condensed milk over ice for a refreshing drink. It balances the bitterness of coffee with creamy sweetness!

Health Considerations

While sweetened condensed milk is delicious, it’s essential to be mindful of the health aspects. Here are some points to consider:

• High in Sugar: Monitor your consumption, especially if you’re watching sugar intake for health reasons.
• Caloric Density: While it adds delicious flavor to recipes, add it in moderation, particularly in dessert-heavy diets.
• Variations for Dietary Needs: If you’re lactose intolerant, you can substitute with lactose-free milk and use alternative sweeteners if you’re avoiding sugar.

Conclusion

Homemade sweetened condensed milk is a simple yet flavorful addition to your kitchen arsenal. With easy-to-follow steps and the freedom to customize, it’s something that can elevate your cooking. Whether you’re using it in drinks, desserts, or savoring it by the spoonful, there’s no denying the richness it brings.

By understanding the process and its versatile uses, you can transform everyday recipes into something special. Plus, you can feel good knowing exactly what’s in your sweetened condensed milk. So grab your ingredients and start making your own today! Your taste buds will thank you.