Sweetened Condensed Milk is a staple pantry item made by simmering milk and sugar to a thick, caramelized syrup, perfect for key lime pies, tres leches cakes, or no-churn ice creams with rich, milky sweetness and long shelf life—ideal for baking, beverages, or vegan swaps with coconut milk. This 30-minute stovetop recipe yields 1 can (14 oz equivalent), serving multiple uses at ~100 calories per 2 tbsp, offering control over sweetness without additives. For more creamy dessert bases, explore our Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins, which uses it for tenderness.
What is the Perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe?
The Perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe is a stovetop reduction where whole milk is gently simmered with sugar until reduced by half to a thick, pourable syrup with subtle caramel notes—perfect for recipes requiring evaporated sweetness. This homemade essential avoids canned preservatives, yielding a versatile ingredient for frostings, candies, or drinks. If you’re craving pure dairy control, follow the Perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe to recreate this kitchen staple at home. It’s a natural companion to fruit pies like our Perfect Rosemary Apple Pie Recipe, where it adds creamy richness.
Why You’ll Love Perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe
This recipe’s value is its simplicity and purity, transforming basic milk into a baking powerhouse.
Quick Stovetop Reduction
Simmer in 25 minutes—no special tools. Ideal for prep, like ease in our Moist Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins.
Pure Creamy Sweetness
Milk’s natural lactose caramelizes with sugar for thick, versatile syrup—customize with vanilla, akin to herb depth in the Lemon Herb Tahini Recipe.
Minimal Cleanup
One pot; basic staples like milk—stress-free, much like our Tender Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf Recipe.
Versatile Baking Staple
Yields 14 oz (1 can); vegan with coconut milk. Pairs with desserts from our Fresh Herb Pasta Guide for creamy contrasts.
Essential Indulgence
Versatile at ~100 calories/2 tbsp; pure yet portioned, like citrus in the Baby Lemon Impossible Pies Recipe.
Staple Simplicity
Glossy syrup in a jar—label for gifting, like layers in the Lemon Herb Tahini Recipe.
For dairy-free, see our Oat-Flour Pasta Experiment.
Perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 14 oz (1 can equivalent)
Category: Ingredient, Dessert Base
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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Base
- 2 cups whole milk (or coconut for vegan)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
- Pinch of salt (for balance)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk 2 cups milk, 1 cup sugar, vanilla (if using), and pinch salt over medium heat until sugar dissolves (2–3 minutes).
- Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low-medium; simmer 20–25 minutes, stirring frequently, until reduced to 1 cup (thick, syrupy; coats spoon). Milk will foam—watch to avoid boiling over.
- Cool and Store: Remove from heat; skim foam if desired. Cool to room temp (thickens more). Pour into jar; seal and refrigerate.
Nutrition (Per 2 Tbsp): ~100 calories.
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Detailed Ingredients Breakdown
Base Ingredients
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Creamy foundation; whole for richness, coconut for vegan like in our Oat-Flour Pasta Experiment.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and thickens via reduction.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp, optional): Enhances without overpowering.
- Salt (Pinch): Balances caramel notes.
These yield versatile, thick syrup.
How to Make Perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe
Focus on low simmer for essential thickness.
Step 1: Initial Whisk
Dissolve sugar in milk—essential for even caramelization.
Step 2: Gentle Reduction
Simmer low, stirring often—essential to prevent scorching (medium-low heat key).
Step 3: Cool and Bottle
Skim foam; cool to set—essential for pourable consistency.
Inspired by reductions? Our Make-Ahead Ravioli Freezer Guide offers simmering tips. For a classic external take, try this Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk recipe from Allrecipes, which simmers for pure results.
Storage and Shelf Life
Refrigerate in airtight jar up to 2 weeks; thickens in cold. Freeze up to 3 months (jarred, leave headspace); thaw in fridge and stir. Signs of spoilage: mold, separation, off-smell—discard. (Pro tip: Like storing syrups in our Perfect Cranberry Sauce Recipe, shake before use.)
Tips and Variations
Use heavy pot to avoid scorching; stir constantly after boiling. Variations: Add browned butter for caramel depth or coconut milk for vegan. For thinner, stop at 1.5 cups reduction. Essential: Low heat for smoothness. Like balance in the Lemon Herb Tahini Recipe, taste for sweetness.
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk is a creamy, versatile essential for baking—rich, sweet, and simple. With key steps, it’s your go-to staple. From milk picks to storage, success every pour. Simmer ahead, use and enjoy in recipes with loved ones! Pair with our Fresh Herb Pasta Guide for creamy desserts.