How to Make Condensed Milk at Home (Quick, Creamy, and Only 4 Ingredients!)

Homemade condensed milk is rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to make with just four basic ingredients. Whether you’ve run out of store-bought or simply prefer a DIY version without additives, this recipe delivers a thick, sweet milk perfect for desserts, coffee, and baking. Ready in just 15 minutes, it uses common pantry items and keeps well in the fridge for months. If you’ve never tried making condensed milk at home, this recipe will change your baking game.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Only 4 ingredients and 15 minutes
• Creamy, thick, and perfectly sweet
• No preservatives or additives
• Long shelf life in the fridge
• Perfect for cakes, pies, coffee, or ice cream bases

What Is Condensed Milk?

Condensed milk is cow’s milk that has been slowly cooked down with sugar to create a thick, sweetened syrup-like consistency. It’s a staple in many dessert recipes like tres leches cake, fudge, and key lime pie. The store-bought version is shelf-stable and comes in cans, but making it at home is just as easy — and even more delicious when fresh.

Pro Tips for Perfect Condensed Milk

1. Stir constantly during cooking to avoid lumps or burning
2. Use whole milk for the richest flavor and thickest consistency
3. Let it cool completely before storing
4. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the milk before cooling
5. Add a pinch of salt or vanilla for flavor depth (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, but results will vary. Try full-fat coconut or oat milk for a similar texture.

Is this the same as evaporated milk?

No — evaporated milk is unsweetened and less thick. Condensed milk always includes sugar.

How thick should it be when done?

It should coat the back of a spoon but thicken more as it cools.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just increase all ingredients proportionally and extend the simmering time slightly.

Is this safe for baking?

Yes! Use it in place of canned condensed milk in any recipe.

How to Store

Once cooled, pour the condensed milk into a sterilized glass jar with an airtight lid. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.

How to Freeze

Homemade condensed milk freezes well. Pour into small airtight containers or silicone molds and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir before using.

How to Make Condensed Milk at Home

Start by pouring a small amount of the milk into a bowl and whisking it together with the cornstarch until fully dissolved and smooth. This step ensures the mixture will cook evenly without lumps. Then add the rest of the milk and stir again.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, pour in the milk and cornstarch mixture and immediately stir in the sugar. Continue stirring the mixture over medium heat until it begins to boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for about five minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking or burning. The mixture will begin to thicken as it cooks.

Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. The condensed milk will continue to thicken slightly as it cools. Once fully cooled, you can use it immediately or store it in a sterilized jar in the fridge.

Enjoy and use it for your desserts!