This sweetened condensed milk substitute is a must-have recipe for any baker. With just a pantry ingredients, you can make your own when you need a can but don't have one on hand. This versatile ingredient adds a richness to a variety of desserts like our Condensed Milk Brownies and Key Lime Pie.
These simple homemade ingredients let you keep your recipe moving without a last-minute trip to the store.
If you're in the middle of a recipe and don't have sweetened condensed milk or brown sugar, our recipe for sweetened condensed milk and homemade brown sugar substitute are quick and easy substitutes you can make on the spot.
Why You'll Love This Sweetened Condensed Milk Substitute Recipe
This sweetened condensed milk substitute is a simple and reliable pantry-friendly solution that gives you creamy, thick results without a can. It works beautifully in baking and desserts, providing the texture and sweetness needed for recipes that call for traditional sweetened condensed milk.
- Quick Pantry Hack: You can make this sweetened condensed milk substitute anytime with just powdered milk, sugar, and water-no running to the store required.
- Perfect Baking Texture: When measured correctly, this substitute mimics the thickness and creaminess of store-bought sweetened condensed milk, making it ideal for baking.
- Versatile in Recipes: It can be used in everything from fudge and pies to homemade caramel, making it a handy staple for your kitchen.
This recipe is part of our collection of homemade pantry staples. See the full spice and pantry substitutions guide for more easy ingredient swaps.
Ingredients Overview
Not only is this sweetened condensed milk substitute solution easy to make, making your own sweetened condensed milk can save you money. You just need powdered milk (any kind), hot water, and granulated sugar!
Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How To Make Sweetened Condensed Milk
This homemade version is just as delicious and creamy as store-bought sweetened condensed milk. Plus, making it yourself gives you complete control over the ingredients and allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.
Whether you're whipping up a batch of caramel, making a classic tres leches cake, or adding a sweet touch to your coffee, this substitute for sweetened condensed milk is the perfect solution.
Pro Tip
This recipe makes the equivalent of one 12 oz can of sweetened condensed milk. If you need more you can double the recipe. For step-by-step guidance, see How To Scale A Recipe.
Step 1: Combine the white granulated sugar, powdered milk, and hot water in a medium size mixing bowl.
Step 2: Whisk the ingredients until no powdered milk clumps remain and ingredients have dissolved and are smooth. Allow to rest and thicken for about 10 minutes before using.
Step 3: Use immediately or store in a Mason canning jar, or sealed plastic tub in the refrigerator.
Ways To Use Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk
Use this sweetened condensed milk to make Dulce de Leche, caramel, or toffee. Use just as you would canned sweetened condensed milk in any of your recipes.
Substitutions and Variations
Some useful tips and substitutions when making this recipe:
- You can use non-fat dry milk, or dry whole milk powder.
- Use soy or coconut milk powder for a non dairy version.
Tips for Success
Helpful tips to help you when making this recipe:
- This recipe thickens the more it cools, up to a certain point, of course.
- Use hot water when mixing the powdered milk so it dissolves fully and creates a smooth, creamy texture without grit.
- This recipe makes the perfect amount for replacing the average can size found at the store, which is 14 ounces.
- Whisk or blend the mixture thoroughly to ensure the sugar is completely dissolved and evenly distributed.
- Let the mixture cool before using, as it will thicken and better mimic the texture of sweetened condensed milk.
- Store the finished substitute in an airtight container in the refrigerator and stir before each use.
Storage Options
Here is how I store leftovers when making this recipe:
- Store homemade sweetened condensed milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it will affect the flavor the the sweetened condensed milk. For a fresher milk taste, the powdered milk works better.
Some substitutes, like coconut cream, will add their own flavor profile, while combinations like powdered milk and sugar stay closer to the original taste; choosing the right base depends on the recipe you're making.
It's close in sweetness and texture for baking, though it may not be as rich or caramel-like as traditional sweetened condensed milk.
Yes. Adding a splash of vanilla can enhance the flavor and make your substitute more similar to canned sweetened condensed milk.
When mixed well and allowed to cool, the homemade version thickens and can be used in many desserts like fudge, pie fillings, and bars.
Dessert Recipes
Get The Recipe!
Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe
Equipment
- Whisk
Instructions
- Combine all three ingredients in a medium mixing bowl.¾ Cup White Granulated Sugar, ¾ Cup Dry Milk, ½ Cup Hot Water
- Whisk until no clumps remain and ingredients have dissolved.
- Allow to rest and thicken for about 10 minutes.
- Use immediately or store in a sealed container in the fridge.
Notes
- This recipe thickens the more it cools, up to a certain point, of course.
- Use hot water when mixing the powdered milk so it dissolves fully and creates a smooth, creamy texture without grit.
- This recipe makes the perfect amount for replacing the average can size found at the store, which is 14 ounces.
- Whisk or blend the mixture thoroughly to ensure the sugar is completely dissolved and evenly distributed.
- Let the mixture cool before using, as it will thicken and better mimic the texture of sweetened condensed milk.
- Store the finished substitute in an airtight container in the refrigerator and stir before each use.
Kelly Bloom says
Delicious, I'm making this again!