Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk
A simple homemade sweetened condensed milk you can use as a 1:1 substitute for the canned version in desserts, candies, coffee drinks, and no-bake recipes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
- Total Time: about 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
- Category: Sauces
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (Use less for a less “rich” flavor)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
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Dissolve sugar: Add milk, sugar, and salt to a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan. Heat over medium-high, whisking just until the sugar dissolves and the milk reaches a very gentle simmer.
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Simmer to reduce: Reduce heat to maintain a low simmer. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, until reduced by about half and thickened to a maple-syrup consistency (about 30–45 minutes).
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Finish: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. If needed, strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove any solids/foam. Cool completely (it thickens more as it cools).
Notes
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Once the sugar is dissolved, avoid vigorous whisking to help prevent crystals along the sides of the pan.
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If it thickens too much after chilling, microwave in 10-second bursts until pourable