2-Ingredient Homemade Condensed Milk (Detailed & Gentle Method) ✨🥛
Making condensed milk at home is easy, budget-friendly, and gives you full control over the ingredients. With just two simple items, you can create a smooth, creamy condensed milk perfect for desserts, drinks, and baking—no additives, no extras.
This method uses slow, gentle heat and patience to naturally thicken the milk and develop its rich texture.
🧾 Ingredients
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2 cups (500 ml) whole milk
Full-cream milk gives the best creamy body and smooth mouthfeel. -
⅔ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
Sweetens the milk and helps it thicken naturally as it reduces.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Combine the Ingredients
Pour the milk into a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add the sugar and gently stir to combine.
Using a thick pan helps the milk heat evenly and stay smooth.
2️⃣ Dissolve the Sugar
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat.
Stir slowly and continuously until the sugar fully dissolves into the milk.
This step is important for a silky texture later.
3️⃣ Gentle Simmer & Reduce
Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat slightly so the milk stays at a very gentle simmer (small bubbles at the edges, not active bubbling).
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Let it cook for 35–45 minutes
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Stir every few minutes to keep the mixture smooth
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If light foam forms on top, gently skim it off with a spoon
As it cooks, you’ll notice:
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The color changing from white to a soft creamy tone
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The volume gradually reducing to about half
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The texture becoming thicker and glossy
4️⃣ Check the Consistency
The condensed milk is ready when it:
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Looks smooth and shiny
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Feels lightly thick and coats the back of a spoon
👉 Keep in mind: it will become thicker as it cools.
5️⃣ Cool and Smooth
Remove the pan from heat and let the condensed milk cool completely.
If you notice tiny lumps:
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Strain through a fine sieve or
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Blend briefly for a perfectly smooth finish
6️⃣ Store
Pour into clean, dry glass jars.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
🌟 Helpful Tips & Variations
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🥥 Dairy-free option: Full-fat coconut milk works very well and gives a rich result
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🍯 Flavor boost: Add a small splash of vanilla after cooling
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🧁 Uses: Perfect for desserts, no-bake treats, tea, coffee, and baking
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❄️ Texture tip: If it thickens too much in the fridge, stir in a little warm milk to loosen
❓ Common Questions
Can I use sugar alternatives?
Yes, but the texture may be lighter since regular sugar thickens more naturally.
How long does it last?
Up to 2 weeks when kept cold in a sealed container.