If you've ever found yourself halfway through a recipe only to discover you're out of sweetened condensed milk, this homemade version is your saving grace. With just two simple ingredients, you'll whip up a batch that's rich, creamy, and perfect for baking or drizzling over desserts.
Whole milk is crucial here because it lends the richness and creamy texture that makes sweetened condensed milk so indulgent. Skim milk just won’t cut it for this recipe. Granulated sugar not only sweetens the milk but helps it thicken as it simmers down, creating that luscious texture we’re aiming for.
This homemade condensed milk is perfect for making fudge, adding to your coffee for a sweet twist, or drizzling over fresh fruit and desserts. It’s a game-changer in homemade ice cream too!
Start by combining your whole milk and granulated sugar in a medium-sized saucepan. You'll want to do this over medium heat, stirring occasionally. What you're looking for is for the sugar to dissolve completely into the milk. This should take just a few minutes.
Once the sugar is fully dissolved, reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer — you'll need to stir it frequently to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This is where patience comes in, as you'll want to let it simmer until it's reduced by about half and thickened up nicely. This usually takes 30-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
Remove it from the heat and let it cool down. It might look a little runnier than you expect, but don't worry, it will thicken up as it cools.