Low Cost Sweetened Condensed Milk

Prep: 10 min

A versatile, budget-friendly sweetened condensed milk substitute with a rich, creamy texture, ideal for baking and desserts, suitable for those seeking an easy homemade alternative.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup instant nonfat dry milk
  • 1/3 cup boiling water
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter or margarine
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Place all ingredients in a blender.
  2. Process until smooth.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve a smoother consistency, ensure all ingredients are blended thoroughly. You can substitute the nonfat dry milk with whole or 2% dry milk for a creamier texture. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk powder instead. Adjust the sugar to your taste, especially if you plan to use this in recipes like Tres La Leche Cake.

Serving Suggestions

This sweetened condensed milk is perfect for drizzling over desserts like English Summer Pudding or using as a base for homemade ice cream. It can also enhance the flavor of your coffee or hot chocolate. Consider pairing it with treats like Reindeer Crunchies Ii(Used With Reindeer Treats) for a delightful dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover sweetened condensed milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm. This homemade version can also be frozen in ice cube trays for easy portioning.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Low Cost Sweetened Condensed Milk contains roughly 552 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).

552 kcal 28% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.8g 6% DV
Total Fat 47.5g 61% DV
Carbs 29.9g 11% DV
Fiber 2.9g 10% DV
Sugar 9.2g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 561.7mg 24% DV
Potassium 207mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 136.2mg 45% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 37.6mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 24.9mg 28% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 97.7mg 8% DV
Iron 1.7mg 9% DV
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this sweetened condensed milk in baking?

Yes, this homemade version works well in various baking recipes. Use it in place of store-bought sweetened condensed milk in cakes, cookies, or bars. It’s especially good in recipes like Tres La Leche Cake, where the creamy texture is essential.

How long does this homemade sweetened condensed milk last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this sweetened condensed milk can last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in small portions for later use in recipes.

Can I make a smaller batch of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can halve the ingredients to make a smaller batch. Just adjust the boiling water and other components accordingly, ensuring the ratios remain the same for the best results.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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