Step 3: Add Butter and Vanilla (Optional)
1️⃣ Once the mixture has reduced and thickened, stir in the unsalted butter. The butter adds richness and creaminess to the condensed milk.
2️⃣ Add vanilla extract if you want a hint of flavor. Stir everything together until smooth.
3️⃣ Taste the mixture, and if you’d like it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more sugar (but make sure it dissolves completely).
📌 Tip: If you prefer an extra silky texture, you can blend the mixture with an immersion blender after adding the butter. This helps smooth out any small curds that may have formed during the simmering process.
Step 4: Cool and Store
1️⃣ Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the homemade sweetened condensed milk cool to room temperature.
2️⃣ Pour it into a clean, airtight container or a glass jar.
3️⃣ Store the homemade condensed milk in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months if you want to keep it longer.
📌 Tip: The condensed milk will thicken even further as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little runny while it’s still hot.
How to Use Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk
Now that you’ve made your own sweetened condensed milk, you can use it in a variety of recipes, such as:
✔ Pies and Tarts – Use it as the base for key lime pie or coconut cream pie.
✔ Baked Goods – Add it to cookies, cakes, or brownies for extra sweetness and moisture.
✔ Coffee or Tea – Add it to your morning cup for a rich, sweet flavor.
✔ Ice Cream – Use it as the main ingredient in no-churn ice cream recipes.
✔ Fudge or Caramels – Sweetened condensed milk is the key ingredient in many caramel and fudge recipes.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk
🔹 Use whole milk for the best results, but you can also make it with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream for an even richer texture.
🔹 If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the whole milk, and coconut sugar for the granulated sugar.
🔹 Be patient when reducing the milk. The process can take time, but it’s worth it for that perfect, thick consistency.
🔹 Stir often to prevent the milk from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade sweetened condensed milk is a simple and satisfying process that will elevate your baking game. Whether you’re making your favorite desserts, creating homemade ice cream, or simply want to keep a jar on hand for your morning coffee, this recipe gives you a fresh, customizable version of this pantry staple.
Once you taste the difference between homemade and store-bought, you’ll never look back!
✨ Give this recipe a try and let me know how it goes! Do you have any creative ways to use sweetened condensed milk? Feel free to share your ideas!
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