Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• ⅔ cup (135 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine milk and sugar
   In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk and sugar.
2. Simmer gently
   Heat over medium-low until the mixture begins to steam.
   Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally.
   Avoid boiling — it should stay at a slow simmer.
3. Reduce the mixture
   Continue simmering for 30–40 minutes, until the liquid reduces by about half.
   It should look slightly thickened but still pourable; it will thicken more as it cools.
4. Add butter and vanilla
   Remove from heat and stir in the butter (for smoothness) and vanilla, if using.
5. Cool
   Let it cool completely. It will thicken to the classic condensed-milk consistency.

Storage

• Refrigerate in an airtight jar for up to 1 week.
• Freeze for up to 3 months (thaw in the refrigerator).

Tips

• For a richer version: substitute ½ cup of the milk with heavy cream.
• For a dairy-free version: use full-fat coconut milk and follow the same steps.