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Condensed Milk





Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe

Description of the Recipe

Condensed milk is a versatile and sweet ingredient that enhances many desserts and beverages. This homemade version is simple to make and uses only a few basic ingredients. By making condensed milk at home, you can control the quality of the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions. This recipe yields a rich, creamy, and perfectly sweetened condensed milk that can be used in a variety of recipes, from pies and cakes to coffee and tea.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of whole milk
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Condensed Milk

  1. Combine Milk and Sugar: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the whole milk and granulated sugar. Stir well to ensure the sugar dissolves into the milk.
  2. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to prevent the sugar from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  3. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once the mixture starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low. Continue to simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to reduce the liquid by half, creating a thicker, syrup-like consistency.
  4. Add Butter and Vanilla: After the mixture has reduced, add the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the mixture.
  5. Cool the Condensed Milk: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the condensed milk cool. As it cools, it will thicken even more. Once cooled, transfer it to a clean jar or container.
  6. Store Properly: Store the homemade condensed milk in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to two weeks. Make sure to shake or stir it before using, as it may separate slightly over time.

Tips and Variations for Condensed Milk

Tips

  1. Consistency Check: If the condensed milk seems too thick after cooling, you can add a small amount of milk and stir until you reach the desired consistency.
  2. Prevent Crystallization: To prevent the sugar from crystallizing, ensure that the mixture simmers gently and avoid high heat.
  3. Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of whole milk and follow the same steps.

Variations

  1. Chocolate Condensed Milk: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the milk and sugar mixture before simmering for a chocolate-flavored version.
  2. Spiced Condensed Milk: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to give your condensed milk a warm, spiced flavor.
  3. Flavored Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like almond, coconut, or hazelnut to give your condensed milk a unique twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

  • Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
  • Calories: 56
  • Total Fat: 2.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.4g
  • Cholesterol: 7mg
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8.7g
  • Sugars: 8.6g
  • Protein: 1.1g

Historical Insights about Condensed Milk

Condensed milk has a fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. It was first developed by Gail Borden in the 1850s as a way to preserve milk for long periods without refrigeration. His innovation was driven by the need for safe and stable milk during long sea voyages and for use by the military.

The process of condensing milk involved removing water from the milk, which not only concentrated its nutrients but also made it resistant to spoilage. During the American Civil War, condensed milk became a staple for soldiers due to its long shelf life and nutritional value. This boosted its popularity and cemented its place in American households.

In addition to its military uses, condensed milk found its way into domestic kitchens, where it was used in baking and desserts. Its sweet, rich flavor made it a favorite ingredient for making sweets like fudge, pies, and custards.

Today, condensed milk is enjoyed worldwide and is a key ingredient in many traditional recipes, from Vietnamese iced coffee to Latin American desserts like tres leches cake. Its versatility and convenience continue to make it a beloved ingredient in both home kitchens and professional bakeries.

More Uses for Condensed Milk

Desserts

  1. Key Lime Pie: Condensed milk is a key ingredient in key lime pie, giving it its creamy texture and sweet flavor. Simply mix it with key lime juice and egg yolks, pour into a graham cracker crust, and bake.
  2. Fudge: Make quick and easy fudge by combining condensed milk with chocolate chips and a bit of butter. Melt the mixture, pour it into a pan, and let it set in the refrigerator.
  3. Caramel Sauce: Create a luscious caramel sauce by simmering condensed milk until it turns a rich, golden brown. Use this sauce to top ice cream, pancakes, or waffles.
  4. Ice Cream: Condensed milk can be used to make no-churn ice cream. Simply whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold in this recipe and your favorite flavorings or mix-ins. Freeze until firm.

Beverages

  1. Vietnamese Iced Coffee: Mix a few tablespoons of this recipe with strong brewed coffee and pour over ice for a deliciously sweet and creamy iced coffee.
  2. Tea Lattes: This recipe can be used to sweeten and enrich tea lattes. Try it with chai tea for a spiced, indulgent treat.
  3. Milkshakes: Blend this recipe with ice cream, milk, and your favorite flavorings for an ultra-rich milkshake.

Baked Goods

  1. Tres Leches Cake: This popular Latin American cake is soaked in a mixture of this recipe, evaporated milk, and heavy cream, making it incredibly moist and flavorful.
  2. Dulce de Leche: Simmer a can of this recipe until it turns into dulce de leche, a sweet caramel-like spread. Use it as a filling for cakes, cookies, or simply spread on toast.
  3. Magic Bars: These layered bars, also known as seven-layer bars, use this recipe to bind together layers of graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts.

Savory Dishes

  1. Sweet and Savory Dipping Sauce: Mix this recipe with a bit of soy sauce and chili flakes to create a unique dipping sauce for fried foods or dumplings.
  2. Creamy Soups: Add a touch of this recipe to creamy soups like corn chowder or butternut squash soup for a hint of sweetness and extra richness.

Frequently Asked Questions about Condensed Milk

Can I Make Condensed Milk with Non-Dairy Milk?

Yes, you can make this recipe with non-dairy milk. Coconut milk is a popular choice due to its richness and natural sweetness. Simply follow the same process, substituting coconut milk for whole milk.

How Do I Store Homemade Condensed Milk?

Store homemade this recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to two weeks. Shake or stir it before using, as it may separate slightly over time.

Can I Freeze Condensed Milk?

Yes, this recipe can be frozen. Pour it into an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator and stir well before using.

What Can I Use as a Substitute for Condensed Milk?

If you don’t have condensed milk on hand, you can make a substitute by simmering 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of sugar until it thickens. For a non-dairy version, use coconut milk or another non-dairy milk.

Is Condensed Milk the Same as Evaporated Milk?

No, this recipe and evaporated milk are not the same. This recipe is sweetened, while evaporated milk is unsweetened. Evaporated milk can be used in savory dishes, while this recipe is primarily used in desserts and sweet recipes.

Health Considerations

While this recipe is delicious and versatile, it is high in sugar and calories. It should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those watching their sugar intake. For a lighter version, you can find low-fat or fat-free this recipe in most grocery stores.

Cultural Significance of Condensed Milk

This recipe has played a significant role in various cultures around the world. In Asia, it is a key ingredient in many desserts and beverages. In Thailand, it is used in traditional sweets like khanom thuai and in iced drinks like Thai iced tea. In Vietnam, it sweetens the famous Vietnamese iced coffee.

In Latin America, this recipe is a staple in desserts. It is used in flans, tres leches cake, and alfajores. The creamy, sweet flavor complements the rich, dense textures of these desserts perfectly.

In the United States, this recipe became widely popular during the Civil War as a non-perishable food item for soldiers. Its popularity continued to grow, and it became a common pantry item for home cooks.

Experimenting with Condensed Milk

This recipe is a versatile ingredient that invites experimentation. Try adding it to your morning oatmeal for extra creaminess and sweetness, or drizzle it over fresh fruit for a quick dessert. You can even use it in savory dishes, like adding a small amount to a tomato sauce for a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is a beloved ingredient that has stood the test of time. Its rich, sweet flavor and versatile uses make it a staple in kitchens around the world. By making your own this recipe at home, you can enjoy a fresher, preservative-free version that enhances your favorite recipes.