Grocery
Sweetened Condensed Milk
What it is
This is a dairy product made by simmering regular milk until about 60% of the water has been removed. Sugar is then added, which acts as a preservative and gives it a thick, syrupy consistency and a very sweet flavor. It is not the same as evaporated milk, which has had water removed but no sugar added.
How people cook with it
Sweetened condensed milk is a versatile ingredient often used in baking and dessert making.
- For creamy desserts
- In no-bake pies
- To sweeten beverages
- As a topping
When baking, it provides sweetness and moisture. It's a key component in many classic desserts like fudge, caramel, and certain types of cookies. It can be drizzled directly over fruit or ice cream for a simple sweet topping. In some cultures, it's added to coffee or tea to create a rich, sweet drink. Its thick texture means it blends well into batters and fillings, contributing to a smooth mouthfeel and a concentrated sweet taste.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk contains a significant amount of added sugar. This makes it much sweeter and thicker. Regular milk is liquid and unsweetened, while evaporated milk is concentrated but unsweetened. This product is distinctly sweet and syrupy due to the sugar content.
Who it is for
Home bakers and dessert enthusiasts often keep this on hand for sweet creations.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused sweetened condensed milk to a clean, airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly. It will typically remain fresh for about 5 to 7 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.