Grocery
Sweetened Condensed Milk
What it is
This is a thick, sweet dairy product made by evaporating about 60% of the water from milk and then adding sugar. The high sugar content acts as a preservative, giving it a long shelf life. It has a rich, creamy texture and a very sweet flavor, making it a distinct ingredient in many desserts and beverages.
How people cook with it
Sweetened condensed milk is a popular ingredient for adding sweetness and creaminess to a wide range of dishes.
- Dessert bases
- Beverage sweetener
- Baking ingredient
- Sauce thickener
It is commonly used in baking to create smooth and rich textures in pies, cheesecakes, and cookies. It can also be a key component in no-bake desserts like fudge and bars. In beverages, it's often stirred into coffee or tea for a sweet, milky boost. For a quick treat, it can be drizzled over fruits or used as a base for homemade ice cream. Its thick consistency also helps to bind ingredients together in certain recipes.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk has a significant amount of sugar added and is much thicker and sweeter. Regular milk is much thinner and contains no added sugar or concentrated milk solids. Cream is also richer but typically unsweetened and has a higher fat content.
Who it is for
Home bakers and cooks often reach for this ingredient to achieve specific sweet and creamy results in their creations.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, transfer any unused sweetened condensed milk to a clean, airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for about 5 to 7 days when properly stored. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.