Vegan Sweetened Condensed Milk Substitute: Complete Guide
Discover the best vegan substitutes for sweetened condensed milk. Learn how to make dairy-free alternatives that work perfectly in baking, desserts, and beverages.
Quick Answer
The best vegan substitutes for sweetened condensed milk are coconut cream with sugar, cashew cream with sugar, or store-bought vegan condensed milk alternatives like Nature's Charm or Let's Do Organic.
Best Substitutes
Coconut Cream + Sugar
1:1 (1 cup coconut cream + 1/2 cup sugar per cup)Coconut cream with sugar provides the same thick, sweet consistency as sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for vegan baking, desserts, and beverages where you need dairy-free richness.
Best for:
Mix 1 cup full-fat coconut cream with 1/2 cup sugar. Heat gently to dissolve sugar completely. This creates the same sweetness and creaminess as traditional sweetened condensed milk.
Cashew Cream + Sugar
1:1 (1 cup cashew cream + 1/2 cup sugar per cup)Cashew cream with sugar provides a neutral, creamy base that mimics sweetened condensed milk perfectly. Great for recipes where you don't want coconut flavor.
Best for:
Soak 1 cup raw cashews for 4 hours, blend with 1/2 cup water until smooth, then add 1/2 cup sugar. Heat gently to dissolve sugar completely.
Oat Milk + Sugar + Cornstarch
1:1 (1 cup oat milk + 1/2 cup sugar + 1 tbsp cornstarch per cup)Oat milk with sugar and cornstarch creates a thick, sweet alternative that works well in most recipes. The cornstarch helps achieve the proper consistency.
Best for:
Mix 1 cup oat milk with 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Heat gently while whisking until thickened to condensed milk consistency.
Almond Milk + Sugar + Coconut Oil
1:1 (1 cup almond milk + 1/2 cup sugar + 2 tbsp coconut oil per cup)Almond milk with sugar and coconut oil provides richness and sweetness. The coconut oil adds the fat content needed to mimic sweetened condensed milk.
Best for:
Heat 1 cup almond milk with 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons coconut oil. Whisk until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens slightly.
Store-Bought Vegan Condensed Milk
1:1Commercial vegan condensed milk alternatives like Nature's Charm or Let's Do Organic provide the most authentic taste and texture. Perfect for when you want convenience.
Best for:
Use directly as a 1:1 replacement. Available at health food stores and online. Check labels for added ingredients and sweetness levels.
Cooking Tips
- 💡For best results, use full-fat coconut cream rather than coconut milk for richer texture
- 💡When making cashew cream, soak cashews for at least 4 hours for the smoothest consistency
- 💡Heat vegan substitutes gently to avoid curdling or separating
- 💡Store homemade vegan condensed milk in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
- 💡For baking, ensure your vegan substitute is at room temperature before using
- 💡Add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness in vegan condensed milk substitutes
- 💡For coffee creamer, coconut cream + sugar works exceptionally well
- 💡Vegan condensed milk substitutes work great in fudge, ice cream, and caramel recipes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream for vegan condensed milk?
Coconut cream is better than coconut milk because it's thicker and richer. If using coconut milk, reduce it by half first to concentrate it, then add sugar.
How long does homemade vegan condensed milk last?
Homemade vegan condensed milk substitutes last 5-7 days in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container and stir before using if separation occurs.
Can I use vegan condensed milk in all the same recipes?
Yes, vegan condensed milk substitutes work in most recipes that call for traditional sweetened condensed milk, including baking, desserts, and beverages.
What's the best vegan substitute for making fudge?
Coconut cream + sugar works best for vegan fudge because it has the right fat content and consistency. Cashew cream + sugar is also excellent for a neutral flavor.
Can I make vegan condensed milk without sugar?
Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or other liquid sweeteners, but you may need to adjust the liquid content and cooking time to achieve the right consistency.
Summary
Find the best vegan substitutes for sweetened condensed milk. Learn how to make dairy-free alternatives with coconut cream, cashew cream, and other plant-based options for baking and desserts.