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Savoring The Good > Recipes > Homemade Ingredients

Sweetened Condensed Milk

A woman with long brown hair wearing a light-colored blouse smiles at the camera in a softly lit indoor setting, offering a welcoming glimpse into the post author's personality.Sarah Mock headshot 100by100.
Updated: Jan 26, 2025 to include new step-by-step photos, clarified instructions, and/or improved tips for best results.· by Sarah Mock· 2 Comments This post contains affiliate links.
A person pouring sweetened condensed milk into a jar.

This homemade sweetened condensed milk recipe has 3 simple ingredients and comes together in less than 15 minutes. Perfect for when you need a substitute for condensed milk.

Jump to Recipe Start Cooking
Two mason jars filled with sweetened condensed milk and a spoon.

Here is why this recipe is amazing:

This easy-to-make, delicious homemade sweetened condensed milk with its simple ingredients can be used in your favorite dessert recipes. It is an easy-to-make recipe and the perfect substitute for store-bought condensed milk.

  • Simplicity: Crafting your own sweetened condensed milk requires just three common ingredients and a simple mixing process. With no cooking involved, it's an easy recipe even for kitchen novices.
  • Customizable Flavors: By making your own, you have the flexibility to adjust the sweetness and flavor intensity to suit your taste preferences. This opens up creative possibilities in various recipes.
  • Richness and Creaminess: The homemade version boasts a rich, creamy texture that enhances the taste and mouthfeel of your desserts and beverages, adding an indulgent touch to your creations.
  • No Additives: Unlike store-bought varieties that might contain additives and preservatives, your homemade sweetened condensed milk is pure and additive-free, ensuring a cleaner, more natural ingredient for your recipes.

What are the sweetened condensed milk ingredients?

Ingredients for sweetened condensed milk with text overlay. Hot water powdered milk sugar

Recipe Card?

To find the full printable recipe with specific measurements and directions CLICK HERE to go to the recipe card.

Variations

A person pouring sweetened condensed milk into a jar.

Coconut Sweetened Condensed Milk

  • ¾ Cup White Granulated Sugar
  • 1 Cup Coconut Milk
  • ½ Cup Hot Water

Follow the instructions for homemade condensed milk.

How to make homemade condensed milk quickly.

  1. Gather the three ingredients in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
    A glass bowl with sugar and water being poured into it.
  2. Vigorously whisk the mixture until all lumps are gone and the ingredients are completely blended.
    A bowl with powdered milk, sugar and a whisk to make sweetened condensed milk.
  3. Let the mixture sit for approximately 10 minutes and allow it to thicken.
    A jar of milk and other ingredients on a table.
  4. You can either use it right away or store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
    A person pouring sweetened condensed milk into a jar.

Did you make this recipe?

Do you have feedback that would be helpful to others? If so can help this small business owner by leaving a rating and a review in the comments section? Thank you for being part of the Savoring The Good Community. ~ Sarah

Should sweetened condensed milk be refrigerated?

Yes, sweetened condensed milk should be refrigerated. After you make this recipe, it's important to store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. This helps to maintain its freshness and prevent any spoilage. Remember that the homemade version lacks the preservatives found in store-bought options, so refrigeration is necessary to ensure its quality. It's recommended to use or consume the stored sweetened condensed milk within 4-6 days.

Is sweetened condensed milk the same as evaporated milk?

No, sweetened condensed milk is not the same as evaporated milk. While they might seem similar due to their thick consistency and the word "milk" in their names, they serve different purposes in cooking and baking. In recipes, they are generally not interchangeable without affecting the flavor and consistency of the final dish. Always choose the one specified in the recipe or choose a suitable substitute if needed.

  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: This milk is thick and sweetened, made by removing most of the water content from regular milk and adding sugar. It's commonly used in desserts, candies, and baked goods to provide sweetness, creaminess, and a distinct flavor. It's not a direct substitute for evaporated milk due to its sweetness and thickness.
  • Evaporated Milk: Evaporated milk is regular milk that has had about 60% of its water content removed through a process of evaporation. It has a rich and creamy texture without added sugar. It's often used as a creamy addition to recipes, such as in soups, sauces, and some desserts, without adding the sweetness that comes with sweetened condensed milk.

What can I substitute for condensed milk?

If you're looking for a substitute for sweetened condensed milk in your recipes, there are a few options you can consider, depending on the specific recipe and desired outcome. Remember that the exact substitution may vary depending on the recipe and the flavors you're aiming for. It's always a good idea to do a small test before using the substitute in a large batch of your dish. Here are a few alternatives:

  • Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk: If you're out of sweetened condensed milk but have the necessary ingredients (sugar, dry milk, and hot water), you can follow this recipe to make a fresh batch.
  • Evaporated Milk and Sugar: For recipes where sweetness is not a primary concern, you can use a combination of evaporated milk and sugar. For each cup of sweetened condensed milk, mix 1 cup of evaporated milk with 1 ¼ cups of granulated sugar and gently heat until the sugar dissolves.
  • Coconut Cream: In recipes where the coconut flavor complements the dish, you can substitute coconut cream for sweetened condensed milk. Coconut cream is thicker and richer than coconut milk and can add a delightful tropical twist to your creations.
  • Cream and Sugar: For a basic replacement, you can combine heavy cream and sugar. Use ¾ cup of heavy cream and mix it with ¾ cup of granulated sugar to replicate the consistency and sweetness of sweetened condensed milk.
  • Non-Dairy Milk and Sweetener: If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use non-dairy milk like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk, along with a sweetener like agave syrup or maple syrup. Combine them to achieve the desired sweetness and consistency.

Condensed Milk Recipes:

  • Classic Tres Leches Cake
    A bundt cake with icing and flowers on a plate.
  • Creamy Coconut Macaroons
    Coconut macaroons in a tray on a marble table.
  • Homemade Coffee Creamer (Instant Pot)
    An instant pot adding sweetened condensed milk to a cup of coffee.
  • No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake
    A sweetened condensed milk lemon cheesecake topped with cherries.
  • Mango Ice Cream
    Peach ice cream in a bowl made with sweetened condensed milk.
  • Key Lime Pie Bars
    Lime bars made with sweetened condensed milk and topped with whipped cream and lime slices.
  • Peanut Butter Fudge

Can dogs have condensed milk?

While small amounts of condensed milk might not be toxic to dogs, it's generally not recommended to feed them this type of dairy product. Dogs' digestive systems are not well-suited to process lactose, which is present in milk and dairy products like condensed milk. Feeding condensed milk to dogs can lead to digestive upset, including symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, and gas.

If you're considering providing a treat for your dog, it's safer to choose dog-friendly options specifically designed for their dietary needs. These can include commercial dog treats or natural treats like small pieces of cooked plain meat or vegetables. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food items into your dog's diet to ensure their safety and well-being.

Seasonal Favorite

Two jars of seedless blackberry jam on a wooden table.

This is the best homemade seedless black raspberry jam recipe made with fresh or frozen black raspberries.

Black Raspberry jam Recipe
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Sarah Mock, savoring a glass of red wine, smiles warmly indoors near a staircase. With her long brown hair and light blouse, she exudes relaxed elegance in this candid headshot.Sarah Mock
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This homemade sweetened condensed milk recipe has 3 simple ingredients. Perfect for when you need a substitute for condensed milk.
Print Recipe
Two mason jars filled with sweetened condensed milk and a spoon.
Prep TimePrep:10 minutes mins
Total TimeTotal:10 minutes mins
servingsServings:16 tablespoons

Ingredients

  • ¾ Cup Sugar
  • ¾ Cup Powdered milk
  • ½ Cup Water Hot
InstacartGet Recipe Ingredients

Instructions 

  1. Combine all three ingredients in a medium mixing bowl.
    ¾ Cup Sugar, ¾ Cup Powdered milk, ½ Cup Water
  2. Whisk until no clumps remain and ingredients have dissolved.
  3. Allow to rest and thicken for about 10 minutes.
  4. Use immediately or store in a sealed container in the fridge.

Nutrition

Serving: 1T | Calories: 66kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 23mg | Potassium: 80mg | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 56IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 0.03mg

Notes

This recipe thickens the more it cools, up to a certain point, of course.
Make sure your water is plenty hot enough to dissolve both the dry milk and sugar. You don’t want to end up with clumps.
This recipe makes the perfect amount for replacing the average can size found at the store, which is 14 ounces.
Do not store outside the fridge. Store in a sealed container for up to 4-6 days.
CourseCourse: Ingredients
CuisineCuisine: American
KeywordKeyword: Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

Sarah Mock of savoringthegood.com headshot 2022

I am Sarah Mock. Welcome!

Sarah Mock is a classically trained Chef and graduate of Johnson & Wales University. A culinary blogger for 15 years Sarah helps the home cook prepare her recipes with professional results.

Get to know me

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Comments

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    Recipe Rating




  1. Pam says

    September 27, 2023 at 8:19 pm

    Can I use a sugar blend substitute?

    Reply
    • Sarah Mock says

      September 27, 2023 at 8:40 pm

      I have never tried so I can't say for sure.

      Reply
Sarah Mock of savoringthegood.com headshot 2022

I'm Sarah Mock, Welcome!

Sarah Mock is a classically trained Chef and graduate of Johnson & Wales University. A culinary blogger for 17 years Sarah helps the home cook prepare her recipes with professional results.

Get to know me

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