Grocery
Sweetened Condensed Milk
What it is
This is a dairy product made by simmering regular milk until about 60% of the water has evaporated. Sugar is then added, which acts as a preservative and gives it a thick, syrupy consistency and a sweet flavor. It is not the same as evaporated milk, which is simply milk with water removed and has no added sugar. The high sugar content contributes to its unique texture and sweetness.
How people cook with it
Sweetened condensed milk is a versatile ingredient used in many desserts and baked goods.
- Dessert bases
- Sweet sauces
- Candy making
- Beverage flavoring
It is often used directly from the can in recipes that call for its distinct sweetness and creamy texture. It can be whipped with other ingredients to create fillings for pies and tarts, or it can be reduced further by simmering to create a rich caramel sauce. It is a key component in many no-bake desserts, providing structure and sweetness without the need for additional sugar or extensive cooking. Its thick nature means it blends smoothly into batters and mixtures.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk is significantly sweeter and thicker due to the addition of sugar and the reduction process. Regular milk is much thinner and lacks the concentrated flavor and sweetness. Evaporated milk can be used as a substitute for regular milk in some recipes, but sweetened condensed milk cannot be directly substituted for either due to its sugar content and viscosity.
Who it is for
Bakers and home cooks often reach for this ingredient to add sweetness and richness to their creations.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, transfer any unused sweetened condensed milk to a clean, airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly. It can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing other odors from the refrigerator.