Sweetened Condensed Milk – Comfort Food Meals

Sweetened condensed milk is a versatile ingredient that can enhance various dishes. Here are a few delightful pairings that will make your taste buds dance:

1. Coffee and Tea: A splash of sweetened condensed milk elevates your morning cup. It adds sweetness and a creamy texture that makes any beverage luxurious.
   
2. Pies and Desserts: Use it as a filling for pies, or drizzle it over your favorite desserts like brownies or cakes. The sweetness complements rich flavors beautifully.
   
3. Fruit Salads: Drizzle some over a colorful fruit salad for that perfect balance between tartness and sweetness. It transforms a simple dish into a sweet treat.
   

Ah, sweetened condensed milk! This ingredient can turn the simplest recipes into extraordinary delights. Whether you’re making a frothy coffee or the creamiest pie filling, sweetened condensed milk is a game changer. 

You might have stumbled upon it in various recipes, but have you ever thought about creating it from scratch? It’s easier than you might think, and I assure you that the end result is worth every minute spent in the kitchen.

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What is Sweetened Condensed Milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is a thick, syrupy product made by removing most of the water from regular milk and adding sugar. The result is a sweet, decadent ingredient that can be used in both baked goods and beverages. 

Its smooth texture and rich flavor have made it a staple in many cuisines, particularly in desserts and drinks.

Why This Recipe Works?

When I set about making homemade sweetened condensed milk, I had several goals in mind. Here’s why my recipe stands out:

1. Simple Ingredients: You only need four pantry staples: whole milk, fine sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. These ingredients are accessible and affordable.

2. Quick Preparation: The process takes less than 30 minutes. You can whip it up while your cookies are baking or while prepping dinner.

3. Customizable Flavor: With the addition of pure vanilla extract, you can tweak the flavor profile. Want a hint of coconut? Add coconut extract instead.

4. Healthier Alternative: By making it at home, you control the ingredients. You can limit the sugar and avoid preservatives found in many store-bought versions.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Sweetened Condensed Milk

To create this luscious treat, gather the following:

• ⅔ cup (5 oz / 142 g) fine caster sugar
  
• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
  
• 2 cups (16 fl oz / 450 ml) whole milk or light milk of your choice
  
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) pure vanilla extract
  

These straightforward ingredients come together masterfully to create a sweetened condensed milk that you will love.

How To Make Sweetened Condensed Milk

Now, let’s dive into the process. Making sweetened condensed milk couldn’t be simpler.

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, pour the measured whole milk. Then, gently add the fine caster sugar and sea salt. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. It’s essential to keep the heat low to avoid scorching the milk.

Step 2: Heat and Reduce

Place the saucepan over low heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. As it heats, you will see steam rising. This indicates that the water is evaporating, which is what you want.

Step 3: Stir and Monitor

Continue to stir the mixture every few minutes to prevent burning. The goal is to allow it to simmer for about 20-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it. The mixture will gradually thicken and reduce.

Step 4: Add Flavor

Once you see it thickening, remove it from the heat. Stir in the pure vanilla extract while it’s still warm. The aroma will be delightful, hinting at the final product’s sweetness.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Allow the sweetened condensed milk to cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools. Once cooled, transfer it to a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

Tips & Tricks

Creating the perfect sweetened condensed milk can be simple if you follow these handy tips:

• Use Low Heat: Patience is key. Low heat prevents scorching and allows for even thickening.
  
• Whisk Occasionally: Stirring helps distribute the heat evenly and prevents sticking.
  
• Watch the Texture: The final product should fall off a spoon in thick ribbons. If it’s too thin, continue cooking.
  
• Storage: Store in an airtight jar in the fridge. It’ll last up to two weeks.
  
• Repurpose Leftovers: Use leftover sweetened condensed milk in smoothies, as a topping for pancakes, or in baking.
  

Nutrition Information

As you’re making your sweetened condensed milk, it’s helpful to know a bit about the nutritional content. Each serving (approximately 2 tablespoons) contains:

• Calories: 120
  
• Fat: 3.5g
  
• Carbohydrates: 20g
  
• Sugar: 19g
  
• Protein: 2.5g
  

This product is rich in calories due to the sugar content, so enjoy it in moderation.

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

If you have leftover sweetened condensed milk, simply pour it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just make sure it’s sealed well to avoid absorbing other odors from your refrigerator!

What Sides Would Complement Sweetened Condensed Milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with various side dishes.

1. Fresh Berries: A bowl of mixed berries drizzled with sweetened condensed milk is a treat bursting with flavor. The tartness of the berries contrasts brilliantly with the sweetness.

2. Toasted Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies are perfect for dipping into sweetened condensed milk. The texture and crunch add a delightful element to the creamy milk.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream: Need I say more? A drizzle of homemade sweetened condensed milk over a scoop of vanilla ice cream is pure bliss.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?

Don’t have all the ingredients? Here are some alternatives to consider:

1. Non-Dairy Milk: Almond, soy, or oat milk can substitute for whole milk, but the texture may differ slightly.

2. Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, coconut cream can replace regular milk. It adds a different aroma and flavor profile.

3. Brown Sugar: If you prefer a deeper caramel flavor, brown sugar is a fantastic substitute for caster sugar.

4. Maple Syrup: For a natural sweetness, maple syrup works well as an alternative. It’ll give your sweetened condensed milk a unique flavor.

Conclusion

Sweetened condensed milk is a marvelous addition to many dishes, from coffee to dessert. Making it at home is straightforward and rewarding. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have this tasty concoction at your fingertips anytime. Whether you use it to drizzle over your favorite fruit or incorporate it into your baking, your creations will reach new heights.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You’ll be amazed at how rewarding it feels to make your sweetened condensed milk from scratch. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor the delicious results!

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