Ingredients Needed
Making homemade sweetened condensed milk includes only two ingredients, heavy cream and sugar. Heavy cream has a higher fat content than regular cream, usually around 36%, and is also sometimes referred to as heavy whipping cream or just whipping cream. The sugar should be either white sugar or brown sugar. With these two ingredients, you will be able to create a delicious, sweetened condensed milk.
Depending on the quantity that you wish to make, the ingredients should be measured out accordingly. An easy ratio to remember is half a cup of sugar for every two cups of heavy cream. This amount should be doubled or halved depending on the desired quantity. You can also adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs; if you follow a paleo or keto diet, then you will want to make sure that the sugar that you use is one that is compliant with your chosen diet.
Instructions
To begin, carefully measure out your sugar and heavy cream in the desired ratio. Once you have these ingredients everything is ready to go. Begin by pouring the heavy cream into a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Turn the heat to low once the cream has begun to heat up.
Add the sugar into the saucepan and stir gently to mix it in with the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer over low heat while stirring occasionally. It is very important to remember that the mixture should never be allowed to boil. Continue this process for approximately 25–30 minutes, depending on the amount of milk used. The sweetened condensed milk will be done once it thickens significantly.
Once the sweetened condensed milk is finished, take it off the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, pour the mixture into a container and store it in the refrigerator until ready to be used. The sweetened condensed milk should keep well for about 5-7 days in the fridge.
Tips to Make the Best Sweetened Condensed Milk
When making the sweetened condensed milk, it is important to remember to always keep the heat on low. If the heat is too high, it can cause the mixture to burn and can ruin the entire batch. Making sure to stir the mixture regularly will help to prevent this from happening.
Also, make sure that you use high-quality heavy cream. Heavy cream is a base ingredient, so using a better quality product will lead to a higher-quality end product. Additionally, if you can find organic heavy cream, it is usually recommended as it is free of any additives and chemicals that are commonly used in non-organic brands.
Uses for Sweetened Condensed Milk
Sweetened condensed milk has many uses in both baking and cooking. It can be used as a topping, as a filling for pies or cakes, or as an ingredient in other desserts such as pudding or ice cream. Additionally, it can also be used to make a variety of milkshakes or smoothies and can be added to coffee, hot chocolate, or other beverages for an added sweetness.
Although sweetened condensed milk is most often used for desserts, it can also be used to make savory dishes such as sauces or as a topping for vegetables. For example, sweetened condensed milk can be used to sweeten and thicken a variety of cream-based sauces or to add a sweetness to roasted vegetables.
Storing Sweetened Condensed Milk
Once you have prepared your sweetened condensed milk, it should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 7 days in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer. However, it is important to note that the sweetened condensed milk may separate while it is being stored, so it is best to give it a good stir before using it.
When preparing sweetened condensed milk, it is important to use high-quality ingredients, monitor the heat closely, and store the milk properly to ensure the best possible outcome. Making sweetened condensed milk from scratch can be very rewarding and, with a little practice, you can make the perfect sweetened condensed milk every time!
Adding Flavoring to Sweetened Condensed Milk
If you’re looking to add something special to your sweetened condensed milk, there are a few different options. For example, you can add extracts such as vanilla, almond, or coconut to the mixture while it is still warm. You can also add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the mixture for a delicious chocolate-flavored sweetened condensed milk.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can add spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to your sweetened condensed milk. You can also add a small amount of instant coffee or espresso powder to make a mocha flavor. The possibilities are truly endless!
Reheating Sweetened Condensed Milk
If you ever find that you need to reheat sweetened condensed milk, it is important to remember to do it properly. The best way to reheat sweetened condensed milk is to begin by placing it in a heat-safe bowl and then setting it in a larger bowl or pan filled with hot water that reaches about three-quarters of the way up the side of the bowl containing the milk.
Allow the bowl to sit in the hot water for about 15 minutes, or until the sweetened condensed milk begins to warm up. Once it is warm, stir it a few times to make sure that it is evenly heated. The sweetened condensed milk is now ready to be used!
Health Benefits of Sweetened Condensed Milk
The health benefits of sweetened condensed milk are largely dependent upon the type of heavy cream that you choose to use. Generally speaking, sweetened condensed milk is high in fat and sugar and therefore should be consumed in moderation. However, if you choose to use organic heavy cream, the product will be free of any added preservatives, and therefore may be slightly better for you.
Additionally, sweetened condensed milk does contain some calcium and other essential vitamins and minerals, so it is important to remember to include it in your overall diet as well. It is also important to note that some sweetened condensed milks may contain additives such as corn syrup, so make sure to read the ingredients label carefully before purchasing.
