Sweetened condensed milk is a versatile ingredient that can elevate many recipes, from desserts to beverages. While store-bought versions are readily available, making it at home is surprisingly easy and allows you to control the quality and flavor of the ingredients.

Plus, it’s a great way to use up some pantry staples. This homemade version is creamy, delicious, and can be used in countless dishes.

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk from Scratch

Name: How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk from Scratch
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 1 min 30 s
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment:

Medium Saucepan
Whisk or Rubber Spatula
Glass Mason Jars or Airtight Containers

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1.5 hours
Yield: 8 ounces
Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months

Ingredients:

2 cups whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitutions:

Dairy: Almond milk, Cashew milk, Oat milk, etc.
Sweetener: Cane sugar, honey, or maple syrup
Vanilla: Gluten-free vanilla extract

Instructions:

Combine Milk and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, pour in the whole milk and granulated sugar. Bring to medium heat, whisking constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved.

Simmer: Allow the milk mixture to simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The mixture will gradually reduce by about half.

Incorporate Butter and Vanilla: Once the mixture has reduced, remove from heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Final Heating: Return the saucepan to medium heat, whisking continuously until the butter has fully melted and incorporated into the mixture.

Transfer and Cool: Pour the sweetened condensed milk into glass Mason jars or airtight containers. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. You can also use it immediately if desired.

Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If freezing, ensure the containers are freezer-safe and label them with the date. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

Usage Tip: If the butter separates slightly upon cooling, simply stir it back into the mixture before using. Shake well before each use to blend any settled ingredients.

Making homemade sweetened condensed milk is a simple yet rewarding process that results in a creamy, flavorful ingredient perfect for all your recipes. Whether you’re using it for baking, in coffee, or as a topping for desserts, this homemade version will not only taste better but will also allow you to customize it to your liking.

Store it in your fridge or freezer, and enjoy the convenience of having a homemade pantry staple whenever you need it. Happy Baking!