There’s a certain nostalgia that comes with the sweet, creamy taste of condensed milk—a reminder of childhood afternoons spent savoring spoonfuls straight from the can or watching it drizzle onto our favorite desserts. Today, I’m eager to share with you a homemade condensed milk recipe that not only captures that cherished sweetness but does so with a touch of modern sensibility.
In crafting this recipe, I was driven by the wish to recreate those fond memories while also being mindful of the ingredients that go into our food. Making your own condensed milk at home allows for a level of control over what we consume, offering a more natural and potentially healthier alternative to store-bought versions. It’s about taking a classic ingredient and infusing it with personal care and attention.
The process of making condensed milk is almost meditative, a slow simmer that transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into something magical. There’s a joy in the anticipation, watching as the milk thickens and takes on a rich, caramel hue. This recipe is for those who find comfort in the act of cooking, who delight in the alchemy of the kitchen, and who appreciate the satisfaction that comes from creating something from scratch.
Whether you’re looking to add a homemade touch to your baking, to control the sweetness level, or to simply indulge in a bit of culinary nostalgia, this condensed milk recipe is a gentle invitation to explore the pleasures of the kitchen. It’s a warm embrace of tradition, with a nod to the thoughtful choices we make today. Let’s begin this sweet endeavor together, stirring up memories and making new ones as we go.
Condensed milk recipe
Light Condensed milk
Equipment
- 1 saucepan
Ingredients
- milk – 1 liter
- sugar – 1 tsp.
- incomplete 200 g
Instructions
- In the end you will get 460 g of condensed milk. Method of preparation: Pour milk (preferably fat – 3.2%) in a saucepan, add sugar in it, stir. Put on the fire and bring to a boil, watch it, stirring occasionally. During the first 4-5 minutes the milk will swell and try to boil, watch it. Once it boils, reduce the heat and simmer, stirring. The larger the diameter of the pot, the faster the result will be (this increases the boiling area).
- Nothing special happens in the first 20 minutes. At the same time you do not need to constantly stir (once every 5 minutes will be enough). After 20-25 minutes the vegetable milks will start to change, cook for another 5 minutes. Check by dripping on a spoon, it should drain slowly. The total cooking time for homemade condensed milk is 30-35 minutes. At the same time, the condensed milk will still look liquid at the end, but it will thicken after cooling.
Video
How to make Dark condensed milk
- milk – 1 liter
- sugar – 160 g
- baking soda – 1 pinch
In the end you will get 320 g of condensed milk. This condensed milk is prepared in the same way, but add a pinch of soda to the milk and sugar. The thickening process will start a little later due to less sugar. Continue to boil the condensed milk, stirring often, making the fire slower and slower.
After about an hour of cooking, the condensed milk will acquire a caramel color. Leave it like this, after another 15 minutes the condensed milk will become even thicker and darker. Soda is added so that the condensed milk does not darken too much during the cooking process. With the prepared homemade condensed milk you can make a sweet temptation such as: – milk pudding; – rice pudding; – milk pie. – homemade vanilla cream.
Tips for making Condensed milk
Cooking Tips
Condensed milk, with its rich, sweet profile, has the power to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. It’s a beloved ingredient that finds its way into a myriad of recipes, from decadent desserts to comforting beverages. The magic of condensed milk lies in its versatility; it can be the secret touch in a coffee that brings a smile on a dreary morning or the key component in a tres leches cake that makes a celebration even more special.
When cooking with condensed milk, one quickly learns that a little goes a long way. Its concentrated sweetness and creamy texture mean that it should be used thoughtfully to enhance, not overpower. For those who are health-conscious, it’s worth noting that there are now low-fat and even dairy-free alternatives available that still capture the essence of traditional condensed milk, allowing for indulgence without compromise.
One of my personal tips for using condensed milk is to incorporate it into homemade ice cream. Without the need for an ice cream maker, you can create a luscious treat that’s both simple and satisfying. Just whisk it with some pureed fruit or vanilla extract, fold in whipped cream, and let the freezer do the rest. The result is a delightful frozen dessert that’s sure to please any palate.
Another tip is to use it as a sweetener for homemade bread or rolls. A tablespoon or two can add a subtle richness to the dough, giving your baked goods a tender crumb and a beautiful golden hue. It’s these small touches that make cooking such a joyous endeavor, where each ingredient, like condensed milk, plays its part in the symphony of flavors that we create in our kitchens.
In essence, cooking with condensed milk is about embracing the sweet moments in life and sharing them with others. Whether it’s through a slice of pie, a spoonful of fudge, or a drizzle over fresh fruit, this ingredient has the ability to spread happiness in its own unique and delightful way.
Serving suggestions
Condensed milk, with its velvety texture and sweet taste, has the power to transform a simple dessert into something truly special. It’s like a gentle hug for the soul, offering comfort and a touch of sweetness that can elevate any dish it graces. When considering how to serve condensed milk, I’m drawn to the idea of drizzling it over fresh fruit—a simple yet profound pairing that allows the natural flavors to shine while adding a luxurious note.
There’s a certain nostalgia tied to the creamy richness of condensed milk, reminiscent of childhood and the simple pleasures that come from the kitchen. It’s versatile, too, making it a delightful addition to a variety of desserts. Imagine a dollop on top of a warm slice of pie, where it slowly melts and mingles with the filling, or swirled into your morning coffee, transforming it into an indulgent treat that starts your day with a whisper of sweetness.
For those who enjoy a bit of texture contrast, condensed milk can be the secret ingredient in a crunchy, nutty granola, adding a chewy, caramel-like quality that is both unexpected and utterly satisfying. And let’s not forget how it can play a starring role in frozen desserts, such as popsicles or ice cream, where it lends a creamy consistency that’s both refreshing and comforting.
In every spoonful, there’s a story—a memory of past delights or the anticipation of creating new ones. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of indulgence to your day or seeking to impress guests with a thoughtful final touch to your dessert, condensed milk is a humble yet majestic choice that promises to bring a smile to anyone’s face. It’s about finding joy in the little things, and how a simple ingredient can be a reminder of the shared sweetness in our lives.
Top 5 FAQs about Condensed Milk
- What is condensed milk? Condensed milk is cow’s milk from which water has been removed and to which sugar has been added, yielding a very thick, sweet product that can last on the shelf for months or years. The sugar acts as a preservative, preventing bacterial growth.
- How is condensed milk used in cooking and baking? Condensed milk is commonly used in desserts and sweet dishes. It is a key ingredient in recipes like fudge, caramel, and certain types of cakes and cookies. It can also be used to sweeten beverages such as coffee and tea. Due to its consistency and sweetness, it is often used to create a rich texture and flavor.
- Can condensed milk be used as a substitute for other dairy products? While condensed milk can sometimes be substituted for other dairy products, it is much sweeter and thicker than products like regular milk or cream. When substituting in recipes, adjustments often need to be made to account for these differences. It can, for example, replace cream in some recipes but would not be suitable in cases where the extra sugar would affect the overall flavor of the dish.
- What is the difference between condensed milk and evaporated milk? The main difference is the sugar content. Evaporated milk is also concentrated milk, but without the added sugar. This makes evaporated milk unsweetened, and it is therefore used in both sweet and savory dishes without altering the recipe’s sweetness level. It can sometimes serve as a lighter substitute for cream in recipes.
- How should condensed milk be stored, and how long does it last? Unopened cans of condensed milk can be stored at room temperature for years, typically until the best before date indicated on the packaging. Once opened, condensed milk should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated, and it is best used within about five days. It’s important to keep it covered to prevent contamination and absorption of other flavors and odors from the fridge.
The appeal of condensed milk lies not only in its taste but also in its ability to create a sense of nostalgia. For many, it evokes memories of childhood treats or family gatherings where it played a starring role in favorite recipes. Its convenience is another factor that cannot be overlooked; the process of condensation extends the shelf life of milk, making it a staple in pantries far and wide.
However, it’s also worth acknowledging the dietary considerations that come into play with condensed milk. As people become more health-conscious and dietary needs evolve, alternatives such as condensed coconut milk or other plant-based options have gained popularity. These alternatives cater to those looking for lactose-free or vegan-friendly versions without sacrificing the creamy sweetness that traditional condensed milk provides.
In sum, condensed milk is a culinary treasure that has stood the test of time, enchanting taste buds and adding richness to a myriad of dishes. Whether embraced in its classic form or through its modern alternatives, it remains a testament to the joy that simple ingredients can bring to our tables and lives.