🥛 Dairy

Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Substitute Guide

Learn how to make homemade sweetened condensed milk substitute from scratch. Easy DIY recipes using common ingredients with step-by-step instructions and tips.

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Quick Answer

You can make homemade sweetened condensed milk by simmering 2 cups of milk with 1 cup of sugar for 25-30 minutes until it reduces by about 60%. This creates the same thick, sweet consistency as store-bought condensed milk.

Best Substitutes

Traditional Homemade Condensed Milk

2:1 (2 cups milk + 1 cup sugar = 1 cup condensed milk)

The traditional method of making sweetened condensed milk from scratch. Simmer milk and sugar until it reduces by about 60%, creating the same thick, sweet consistency as store-bought condensed milk.

Best for:

authentic tastewhen you want to control ingredientsemergency situationsall recipes calling for condensed milk

Combine 2 cups whole milk with 1 cup sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently, until reduced by about 60% and thickened.

Quick Homemade Condensed Milk

1:1 (1 cup milk + 1/2 cup sugar + 2 tbsp butter per cup)

A quicker method for making condensed milk substitute using milk, sugar, and butter. This method takes less time but still provides good results for most recipes.

Best for:

quick preparationwhen you're short on timemost baking recipesemergency substitutions

Heat 1 cup milk with 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons butter. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens slightly.

Coconut Homemade Condensed Milk

1:1 (1 cup coconut milk + 1/2 cup sugar per cup)

A dairy-free homemade condensed milk using coconut milk and sugar. This method creates a rich, tropical-flavored alternative that's perfect for vegan and dairy-free recipes.

Best for:

dairy-free recipesvegan bakingtropical-flavored dessertscoconut-based recipes

Use full-fat coconut milk for best results. Heat with sugar for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. This creates a dairy-free alternative with subtle coconut flavor.

Oat Milk Homemade Condensed Milk

1:1 (1 cup oat milk + 1/2 cup sugar + 1 tbsp cornstarch per cup)

A dairy-free homemade condensed milk using oat milk, sugar, and cornstarch. This method creates a smooth, neutral-flavored alternative that works well in most recipes.

Best for:

dairy-free recipesneutral-flavored dessertsquick preparationallergy-friendly recipes

Heat oat milk with sugar and cornstarch, whisking constantly until thickened. This creates a smooth, dairy-free alternative that's easy to make and versatile.

Almond Milk Homemade Condensed Milk

1:1 (1 cup almond milk + 1/2 cup sugar + 2 tbsp coconut oil per cup)

A dairy-free homemade condensed milk using almond milk, sugar, and coconut oil. This method creates a nutty-flavored alternative that's perfect for those who prefer almond-based products.

Best for:

dairy-free recipesnutty-flavored dessertsalmond-based recipesdairy-free baking

Heat almond milk with sugar and coconut oil until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens. This creates a dairy-free alternative with subtle almond flavor and good richness.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even heating
  • 💡Stir frequently during the reduction process to prevent scorching
  • 💡The mixture is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and has reduced by about 60%
  • 💡Let homemade condensed milk cool completely before using in recipes
  • 💡Store homemade condensed milk in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
  • 💡For best results, use whole milk for the richest flavor and texture
  • 💡Add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness in homemade condensed milk
  • 💡If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Learn how to make homemade sweetened condensed milk substitute from scratch. Easy DIY recipes using common ingredients with step-by-step instructions and tips for perfect results.