Making Sweetened Condensed Milk at home is one of the simplest and most satisfying kitchen tricks you can master. With just two basic ingredients, you’ll get a thick, creamy, and perfectly sweet result that tastes just like the store-bought version — but fresher, cheaper, and even more delicious! This homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk is ideal for desserts, coffee, and baking recipes that call for a silky touch of sweetness.
📋 Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Ingredients
- Time & Yield
- How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk (Step-by-Step)
- Tips & Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Creative Uses for Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Learn More About the Science Behind Condensed Milk
- Final Thoughts
💛 Why You’ll Love This Sweetened Condensed Milk
Made with only two ingredients — simple and affordable!
100% successful even on your first try.
Has the perfect creamy texture and balanced sweetness.
Stores beautifully in the fridge for weeks.
Can be used in dozens of desserts and drinks!
This homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk gives you control over the flavor, consistency, and quality. It’s perfect for recipes like cheesecakes, fudges, or even in your morning coffee.
🧂 Ingredients
2 cups (500 ml) of full-fat milk
1 cup (200 g) of white sugar
Optional:
1 tablespoon of butter for extra richness
A pinch of salt or a drop of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor
⏱️ Time & Yield
| ⏰ Step | Time |
|---|---|
| 🥣 Preparation | 2 minutes |
| 🔥 Cooking | 25–30 minutes |
| ❄️ Cooling | 15 minutes |
| ⏳ Total Time | ~45 minutes |
| 🍶 Yield | About 1 ½ cups |
| 💪 Difficulty | Easy |
👩🍳 How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk (Step-by-Step)
- Add the ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine milk and sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely. - Simmer gently
Place the pan over medium heat and bring it just to a gentle simmer. Do not boil. - Reduce the mixture
Keep stirring occasionally for 25–30 minutes until the milk thickens and reduces by about half. - Optional finishing touch
Add butter or vanilla if desired, then remove from heat. - Cool completely
Allow it to cool to room temperature; it will thicken further as it cools. - Store properly
Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk into a clean jar, seal tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
✨ Tips & Variations
Use whole milk for the creamiest result.
Stir gently and continuously to prevent burning.
You can make caramelized condensed milk (dulce de leche) by cooking it longer until golden brown.
To make it vegan, replace milk with coconut milk and use the same amount of sugar.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use low-fat milk?
You can, but the texture will be thinner and less creamy than traditional Sweetened Condensed Milk. - How do I know it’s ready?
When the mixture coats the back of a spoon and has reduced by half, it’s done. - How long does homemade condensed milk last?
It keeps well for up to 2 weeks in the fridge in a sealed jar. - Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze it in small portions and thaw before use. Stir well after thawing.
🍯 Creative Uses for Sweetened Condensed Milk
You can use sweetened condensed milk in a variety of ways! Add it to creamy drinks, where you’ll find plenty of inspiring recipes in our Drinks category, or use it to decorate desserts and pastries in the Desserts section. For more ideas, explore our collection of sauces and jams to elevate your creations even further.
📘 Learn More About the Science Behind Condensed Milk
Enhance your homemade sweetened condensed milk by understanding milk reduction and sugar caramelization. As milk simmers, water evaporates, thickening it, while sugar caramelization adds rich color and flavor. Learn more expert tips on texture and sweetness at King Arthur Baking: Condensed Milk Tips.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Sweetened Condensed Milk recipe is a true kitchen gem — simple, affordable, and always reliable.
Once you try making it at home, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment, rate it, and share it with your friends who love easy homemade sweets! 💛