Introduction
Sweetened condensed milk is a rich, creamy ingredient that enhances various desserts and beverages. Whether you’re planning to use it in a pie, coffee, or as a topping for ice cream, homemade sweetened condensed milk is a delightful option. This simple recipe requires just a few pantry staples and can be made in under an hour.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup whole milk
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Approximately 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk
Directions
1. Combine Milk and Sugar: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, mix together the whole milk and granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves, ensuring the mixture is smooth.
2. Simmer the Mixture: Allow the mixture to gently simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking or burning. Maintain a low heat to avoid boiling, as the goal is to thicken the mixture gradually.
3. Incorporate Butter: After approximately 20 minutes of simmering, add the butter to the saucepan. Stir it in thoroughly, which will contribute to a glossy texture and enhanced richness.
4. Continue Simmering: Keep the mixture simmering until it reduces by about half. The consistency should become syrupy and be able to coat the back of a spoon, indicating it’s adequately thickened.
5. Add Vanilla Extract (Optional): Once you’ve removed the saucepan from heat, stir in the vanilla extract if you’re using it. This adds a subtle depth of flavor to the condensed milk.
6. Cool and Store: Allow the sweetened condensed milk to cool slightly before transferring it into a clean jar or airtight container. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to a week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Combine Milk and Sugar
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, mix together the whole milk and granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves, ensuring the mixture is smooth.
Simmer the Mixture
Allow the mixture to gently simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking or burning. Maintain a low heat to avoid boiling, as the goal is to thicken the mixture gradually.
Incorporate Butter
After approximately 20 minutes of simmering, add the butter to the saucepan. Stir it in thoroughly, which will contribute to a glossy texture and enhanced richness.
Continue Simmering
Keep the mixture simmering until it reduces by about half. The consistency should become syrupy and be able to coat the back of a spoon, indicating it’s adequately thickened.
Add Vanilla Extract (Optional)
Once you’ve removed the saucepan from heat, stir in the vanilla extract if you’re using it. This adds a subtle depth of flavor to the condensed milk.
Cool and Store
Allow the sweetened condensed milk to cool slightly before transferring it into a clean jar or airtight container. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to a week.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Sweetened condensed milk can be used in desserts, coffee, or drizzled over pancakes and waffles for added sweetness.
Storage Tips
Make sure the container used for storage is properly sealed to maintain freshness in the refrigerator.
Consistency Check
To check the right consistency, dip a spoon into the mixture. It should coat the back of the spoon and leave a clear trail when you run your finger through it.
Cook techniques
Combining Milk and Sugar
In this initial phase, mixing whole milk with granulated sugar creates the base for sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously over medium-low heat to ensure that the sugar dissolves completely, resulting in a smooth mixture.
Simmering the Mixture
Simmering the milk and sugar blend allows for gradual thickening. It is essential to maintain a low heat and stir occasionally to prevent burning. The objective is to softly reduce the mixture without bringing it to a boil.
Incorporating Butter
Adding butter after about 20 minutes enhances the final product’s richness and gives it a glossy finish. To fully integrate the butter, stir thoroughly into the simmering mixture.
Continuing to Simmer
Maintain the simmer until the mixture reduces by half and reaches a syrupy consistency. The ability to coat the back of a spoon indicates that it has thickened sufficiently.
Adding Vanilla Extract
Incorporating vanilla extract after removing the saucepan from heat adds a layer of flavor. This step is optional but recommended for enhancing the overall taste of the condensed milk.
Cooling and Storing
Let the sweetened condensed milk cool slightly before transferring it to a clean jar or container. As it cools, it will thicken further. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat or non-dairy milk instead of whole milk?
Using low-fat or non-dairy milk may alter the texture and richness of the condensed milk. Whole milk is recommended for the best results, but alternatives can be experimented with.
How do I know when the sweetened condensed milk is ready?
The mixture is ready when it has reduced by half and can coat the back of a spoon, resulting in a syrupy consistency.
Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your personal preference, but reducing sugar significantly can affect the texture and thickness.
How long can I store the sweetened condensed milk?
The sweetened condensed milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.
Is the vanilla extract necessary?
Vanilla extract is optional. It adds flavor but can be omitted if desired.
Conclusion
This sweetened condensed milk recipe is simple yet versatile, perfect for adding richness and sweetness to various desserts and dishes. With just a few ingredients, you can create a homemade version that enhances your culinary creations. Store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it for up to a week!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Use as a Coffee Creamer
Enhance your morning coffee by adding a tablespoon or two of sweetened condensed milk for a creamy, sweet treat.
Homemade Fudge
Combine sweetened condensed milk with chocolate chips and butter to create a rich, decadent fudge. Just melt, mix, and let it set!
Fruit Salad Dressing
Mix sweetened condensed milk with a splash of citrus juice to create a delicious dressing for fresh fruit salads.
Dulce de Leche
Simmer sweetened condensed milk until it turns caramel in color for a delicious spread or topping for desserts.
Ice Cream Base
Incorporate sweetened condensed milk into homemade ice cream recipes for extra creaminess and sweetness.
Asian Desserts
Use sweetened condensed milk to enhance traditional Asian desserts such as mochi or sweet sticky rice with mango.
Panna Cotta
Add sweetened condensed milk to your panna cotta mixture for a luxurious, creamy texture and sweetness.
Milk Tea
Sweeten your milk tea with a splash of sweetened condensed milk for a rich and delightful beverage.
