master-cooks | 2 Easy Swaps For Sweetened Condensed Milk In A Recipe

Sweetened condensed milk is a common ingredient in many recipes, adding a rich, creamy sweetness. However, if you find yourself without it or need a substitute for dietary reasons, there are a couple of easy swaps. One option is to use evaporated milk combined with sugar. Simply mix one cup of evaporated milk with 1¼ cups of granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. Allow it to cool before using it in your recipe. This swap works well because evaporated milk has a similar consistency to sweetened condensed milk, and the added sugar mimics the sweetness. Another alternative is to make a homemade version using milk and sugar. Combine 1½ cups of whole milk with 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan. Heat the mixture on low, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by half and thickens. This process can take about 30-45 minutes. Once it reaches the desired consistency, let it cool before incorporating it into your dish. This method is particularly useful for those who prefer a more natural approach, as it allows you to control the ingredients and sweetness level. Both substitutes offer an effective way to maintain the creamy texture and sweet flavor essential in recipes calling for sweetened condensed milk.

Make condensed milk with a reduced blend of milk and cream

To create a homemade version of the creamy condensed milk found in cans, begin by combining a few cups of fresh milk with some white sugar in a saucepan. Aim for a ratio of about three to four parts milk to one part sugar, but feel free to adjust this to suit your taste. Increasing the sugar will not only enhance the sweetness but also contribute to a thicker consistency. Allow the milk to simmer until it reduces by half; as the water evaporates, the flavor will intensify, resulting in a rich, creamy syrup.

When heating milk, there's a chance it may curdle, but you can prevent this by boosting the fat content. While whole milk works well, adding a bit more fat will help achieve a smooth texture. Consider incorporating some heavy cream or butter into the mixture. This also opens up the possibility of adding flavorings; vanilla extract is a popular choice, but spices like cinnamon can also be infused into the milk as it simmers. Although condensed milk is inherently sweet, a small pinch of salt can enhance the overall flavor beautifully.

Use coconut milk for a vegan alternative

An alternative option—if you're seeking a plant-based substitute for sweetened condensed milk—is to create a version using coconut milk. The method is nearly the same as making sweetened condensed milk from cow's milk, but you won't need to incorporate any cream or butter. All you need is a can of coconut milk and some sugar. Aim for a ratio of about three parts milk to one part sugar, combining them in a saucepan and simmering until the mixture reduces by half. At the end, feel free to add any flavorings you prefer. This condensed coconut milk can be used in any recipe that calls for sweetened condensed milk, such as pies, coffee, and ice cream. Just keep in mind that it will impart a coconut flavor, which may influence how it complements other ingredients.

The most challenging aspect of making condensed milk, whether vegan or not, is having patience. Both methods require about an hour for the milk to reduce. During this time, you'll need to monitor the saucepan closely, stirring often and scraping down the sides to prevent burning. While it can be a tedious process, the final results are definitely worth the effort.

2 Easy Swaps For Sweetened Condensed Milk In A Recipe

Make condensed milk with a reduced blend of milk and cream

Use coconut milk for a vegan alternative

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