Condensed milk is a sweet, rich ingredient often used in desserts, beverages, and a variety of culinary delights. Making your own homemade condensed milk at home is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy, requiring just two simple ingredients: whole milk and sugar. With this recipe, you can achieve the perfect consistency and flavor without any preservatives or artificial additives. This guide will walk you through the process of creating your own condensed milk with minimal effort and maximum reward. Whether you’re using it for baking, sweetening coffee, or simply enjoying a spoonful, this homemade version will elevate your dishes to the next level.
Why Make Your Own Condensed Milk?
Store-bought condensed milk often contains additional ingredients and preservatives. By making it yourself, you control what goes into your food, ensuring a pure and natural product. Plus, it’s a cost-effective alternative that can be made fresh whenever you need it. This 2-ingredient condensed milk recipe yields a smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweetened product that tastes better than anything you’ll find in the store.
Ingredients
- 1 litre of whole milk (preferably full-fat for the richest texture)
- 250 g of sugar (use white granulated sugar for best results)
This recipe yields approximately 600 ml of condensed milk, enough to fill 3 jars of 200 ml each.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pot: Begin by selecting a tall, heavy-bottomed pot. This is crucial as milk tends to foam and expand significantly during the initial boiling phase. The pot should be filled to a maximum of one-third of its capacity to prevent overflow.
- Combine Milk and Sugar: Pour 1 litre of whole milk into the pot, followed by 250 g of sugar. Stir the mixture well to dissolve the sugar evenly throughout the milk.
- Initial Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Keep a close watch, as the milk will foam up rapidly. Stir frequently to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pot, which can cause burning and affect the flavor.
- Reduce Heat: Once the milk reaches a vigorous foaming boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. The goal is to maintain a simmering state where the milk foams but does not boil over. Continue stirring frequently. This step requires patience, as you will need to keep an eye on the milk to ensure it doesn’t scorch.
- Simmer and Reduce: Let the milk simmer gently, stirring frequently. Over time, the milk will gradually thicken as the water content evaporates. This process typically takes 30-40 minutes, depending on your stovetop and pot size. You’ll notice the milk reducing in volume and taking on a slightly golden hue.
- Achieve the Perfect Consistency: As you stir, pay attention to the milk’s consistency. Once a large portion of the liquid has evaporated and the milk thickens noticeably, it’s crucial to monitor it closely. You’re looking for a consistency similar to that of store-bought condensed milk: thick, creamy, and able to coat the back of a spoon without running off immediately.
- Remove from Heat: The moment the condensed milk reaches the desired thickness, remove the pot from the heat. Be careful not to overcook, as the mixture can quickly turn too thick once it starts to set.
- Fill and Store: Carefully pour the hot condensed milk into sterilized jars of 200 ml each. Allow the jars to cool slightly before sealing them with airtight lids. Once cooled to room temperature, store the jars in the refrigerator. The homemade condensed milk can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Success
- Consistent Stirring: Regular stirring is key to preventing the milk from burning and ensuring an even reduction in liquid.
- Use Fresh Milk: The fresher the milk, the better the flavor of your condensed milk. Avoid using milk that is close to its expiration date.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer your condensed milk less sweet, you can reduce the sugar slightly. However, be mindful that sugar also acts as a preservative, so adjusting too much might affect the shelf life.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: Approximately 100 ml
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
- Total Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Sugars: 55 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Calcium: 20% of the Daily Value
Conclusion
This Homemade 2-Ingredient Condensed Milk is a versatile and essential addition to your kitchen repertoire. With its rich and creamy texture, it serves as the perfect base for numerous desserts, including pies, ice creams, and classic beverages like Vietnamese iced coffee. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating this sweet treat from scratch, knowing exactly what goes into every delicious spoonful. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a home cook looking to expand your culinary skills, this recipe is both a rewarding and practical addition to your homemade staples.