Homemade Condensed Milk with Just Four

Homemade condensed milk is a delightful alternative to store-bought varieties, offering a fresher taste and the satisfaction of DIY. It’s a simple recipe requiring just four ingredients – milk, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. This versatile sweetener is perfect for desserts, beverages, and baking, bringing a rich, creamy texture and flavor to your culinary creations. Making it at home allows for customization and ensures a preservative-free, natural product.

Storing and Preserving

Storing and preserving homemade condensed milk properly is crucial for maintaining its quality and extending its shelf life. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the condensed milk to cool to room temperature before storing it to prevent condensation inside the container.
2. Airtight Container: Transfer the condensed milk to an airtight container. This prevents it from absorbing odors from the refrigerator and keeps it fresh.
3. Refrigerate: Homemade condensed milk should be stored in the refrigerator. The cold environment helps preserve its freshness and prevents spoilage.
4. Label and Date: Always label the container with the date of preparation. This helps keep track of how long it has been stored and ensures usage within its optimal period.
5. Freezing Option: For longer storage, homemade condensed milk can be frozen. Thaw it in the refrigerator before use.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

1. Burning or Overcooking: This is often due to high heat. Always cook the mixture on low heat and stir constantly. If it’s slightly scorched, strain it to remove burnt bits.
2. Lumpy Texture: Lumps can form if the milk and sugar are not mixed well initially or if the mixture is not stirred consistently. To fix this, you can blend the cooled mixture to achieve smoothness.
3. Too Thick or Too Thin: The final consistency can vary based on cooking time. If it’s too thick, gently reheat with a bit of milk to thin it out. If too thin, cook it a bit longer next time.
4. Crystallization of Sugar: This happens if the sugar doesn’t dissolve properly. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved at the beginning of cooking to prevent this.
5. Lack of Flavor: If the condensed milk tastes bland, increase the amount of vanilla extract or try adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
6. Separation During Storage: If the mixture separates in the fridge, gently warm it and stir to recombine. This is a natural occurrence due to the absence of stabilizers.

FAQs about Homemade Condensed Milk

What is the shelf life of homemade condensed milk?

Homemade condensed milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.

Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?

Yes, sugar substitutes like honey or maple syrup can be used, but they may alter the flavor and consistency slightly.

Is it possible to make dairy-free condensed milk?

Absolutely! You can use almond, soy, or coconut milk as dairy-free alternatives.

How do I know when the condensed milk is ready?

The mixture should be thick and creamy. It thickens further upon cooling.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, the recipe can be easily doubled or halved to suit your needs.

Why add butter to the condensed milk?

Butter adds richness and improves the texture, but it can be omitted for a lighter version.

Conclusion

Homemade condensed milk with just four ingredients is a simple, customizable, and delightful addition to your kitchen repertoire. It’s perfect for those seeking a natural, preservative-free alternative to the commercial product. This easy-to-make recipe not only enhances the flavor of your desserts but also brings a touch of homemade goodness to your cooking. Whether used in beverages, baked goods, or as a sweetener, its rich, creamy texture is sure to impress.

Homemade Condensed Milk with Just Four

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup of milk powder
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/4 cup of water
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla essence

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Instructions

1. In a pot, combine sugar and water over medium-low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not allow the mixture to boil or brown.
2. Once the sugar is dissolved, transfer it to a blender (preferably in a glass jar). Blend for about a minute, then add the vanilla and gradually incorporate the milk powder without stopping the blending.
3. After all the milk powder is added, blend for about five minutes (to avoid straining the blender, you can turn it off every minute for 30 seconds). If the mixture is too thick, you can add 2 or 3 tablespoons of additional water while continuing to blend.
4. Once ready, transfer the mixture to a glass jar, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator.

Notes

• Stir Constantly: To prevent burning, stir the mixture constantly while cooking.
• Low Heat: Cook on a low heat to ensure even thickening without scorching.
• Customize Flavor: Feel free to add more vanilla or other extracts for different flavors.
• Storage: Always store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Consistency Adjustment: If your condensed milk is too thick, you can thin it with a little milk.