Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself in the middle of a baking project, only to realize you’re out of sweetened condensed milk, you’re in luck! Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk is ridiculously easy, budget-friendly, and delivers a lusciously creamy, velvety result with richer flavor than anything you’ll find in a can. This recipe requires just four simple ingredients and a touch of patience as it gently simmers to perfection. Once you’ve tried making it yourself, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought—it’s the kind of pantry magic that opens the door to countless decadent desserts and comforting classics, all with a sweetly homemade touch.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk is in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a starring role, contributing to the final creamy texture, sweet depth, and that unmistakable, dreamy finish. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Whole milk: Full-fat whole milk gives your condensed milk its luxurious body and rich mouthfeel—don’t skimp here for the best results!
• Granulated sugar: Classic white sugar sweetens and thickens the mixture, helping create that characteristic syrupy consistency.
• Unsalted butter: A touch of butter stirred in at the end adds silkiness and a subtle flavor boost.
• Vanilla extract (optional): Just a hint of vanilla rounds out the flavor and makes your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk taste extra special—add it if you love a little warmth and extra aroma.

How to Make Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

Step 1: Combine Milk and Sugar

Start by pouring the whole milk and granulated sugar into a medium saucepan. Stir the mixture together so the sugar is evenly dispersed in the milk. This base creates the sweet, creamy foundation of Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk, so take a second to make sure it’s well mixed before moving forward.

Step 2: Gently Heat and Dissolve

Set your saucepan over medium heat and stir, stir, stir! The goal here is to dissolve all the sugar while gently warming the milk. As soon as you notice the sugar has disappeared and the mixture comes just to a gentle simmer, you’re ready to move to the next step—don’t let it boil, as that can alter the flavor and texture.

Step 3: Simmer and Reduce

Lower the heat to the barest simmer. Now, patience is key! Let your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk bubble peacefully, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 35 minutes. This slow reduction thickens the mixture and intensifies the sweetness naturally. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s reduced by about half and looks beautifully creamy and glossy.

Step 4: Finish with Butter and Vanilla

Take the saucepan off the heat. Stir in the unsalted butter until completely melted for extra silkiness and richness. If you’re using it, add the vanilla extract now. This is the step where your kitchen starts to smell absolutely irresistible—a sure sign delicious things are ahead.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Let your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk cool for several minutes in the pan. Then, pour it into a clean jar or airtight container. As it cools, it will thicken even more to that irresistible spoonable consistency. Store it in the fridge, and marvel at your homemade creation each time you use it!

How to Serve Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

Garnishes

A tiny swirl of this creamy goodness instantly elevates everything from morning coffee to fresh cut fruit. Drizzle it over berries, or top with a dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon for a fun finishing touch. For an extra bit of flair, try toasted coconut or a sprinkle of sea salt—you’ll be amazed at how such a simple garnish can send your dishes over the top!

Side Dishes

Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk pairs like a dream with pancakes, waffles, or as the sweet drizzle on hot oatmeal. It’s a classic companion to fresh-baked banana bread, or even as a dipping sauce for churros. Basically, anywhere you want a creamy, sweet finish, this stuff shines!

Creative Ways to Present

Pour your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk into a cute jar and add a ribbon for a personalized homemade gift. Serve it alongside a dessert bar, or fill individual dipping cups for brunch parties. Try layering it into trifles, or swirling into overnight oats for a breakfast treat. The possibilities are as fun as they are delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk can be kept in a clean, airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Give it a quick stir before each use, especially if separation occurs. It’s perfect for making ahead, so you’ll always have some on hand for your next dessert emergency!

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch, good news: you can absolutely freeze Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before adding to recipes.

Reheating

To gently bring your homemade condensed milk back to its smoothest texture, set the jar in warm water and stir until loosened, or microwave in very short bursts, stirring frequently. This makes it pourable and perfect again for drizzling or mixing into both hot and cold treats.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat milk or non-dairy milk for this recipe?

Absolutely! While whole milk makes for the creamiest result, you can sub with low-fat milk or even use canned full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just note the texture and flavor may vary slightly from classic Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk.

Why is my condensed milk not thickening?

It can take a solid 30–35 minutes of gentle simmering for the mixture to reduce by half and reach the right thickness. If it’s not thick enough, keep simmering and stirring until it becomes creamy and coats the back of a spoon.

How do I keep my Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk from crystallizing?

Stirring consistently while it simmers ensures the sugar dissolves evenly and helps prevent crystals from forming. Always store it in an airtight container, and if crystals do appear, reheat gently while stirring to return to smoothness.

What should I do if it separates in the fridge?

This can happen, especially with non-dairy versions! Simply stir your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk well before each use and it’ll return to its luscious, unified texture.

Can I double or triple this recipe?

You sure can! Just use a larger saucepan and make sure to extend the simmering time, as larger volumes take longer to reduce. Watch closely and stir often for consistently dreamy results every time.

Final Thoughts

If you love the taste of truly homemade treats, you’ll be absolutely smitten with Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk. Skip the trip to the store and transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary right in your own kitchen! Give this recipe a try—you’ll never look at a can the same way again.

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