Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk in 30 Minutes
Transform simple pantry staples into rich, creamy sweetened condensed milk using just four ingredients and one pan. This homemade version delivers the same thick, sweet consistency as store-bought but with fresher flavor and no additives. Perfect for baking, coffee drinks, or dessert making when you're out of the canned version or want to control ingredients. The slow simmering process concentrates the milk naturally, while butter adds extra richness and vanilla provides aromatic depth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Stir together milk and sugar in large sauce pan until combined
- 2
Heat mixture over medium heat and bring to a low simmer
- 3
Simmer uncovered until reduced by half, whisking frequently to prevent burning
- 4
Remove pan from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth
- 5
Allow mixture to cool completely before using or storing
Tips
Whisk frequently during simmering to prevent milk from scorching on bottom of pan
Mixture will thicken more as it cools, so don't over-reduce while hot
Use heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heat distribution and better control
Good to Know
Refrigerate in sealed container up to 1 week
Make up to 1 week in advance and store refrigerated
Use at room temperature or chilled in baking, coffee, or desserts
Common Mistakes
Keep heat at medium to avoid scorching milk on pan bottom
Whisk regularly during simmering to prevent lumps from forming
Don't over-reduce as mixture thickens significantly when cooled
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, but the final product will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk provides the best creamy texture and mouthfeel for authentic results.
How long does homemade sweetened condensed milk keep?
Store in refrigerator for up to 1 week in a sealed container. It may thicken further when chilled but will still work in recipes.
Can I freeze sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator and stir well before using as texture may separate slightly during freezing.