Homemade 2-Ingredient Condensed Milk: Delicious, Creamy, and Economical

Condensed milk is a staple in countless dessert recipes — from silky puddings and rich cakes to decadent brigadeiros and no-bake treats. But did you know you can easily make homemade condensed milk with just two simple ingredients? It’s not only budget-friendly, but it also tastes just as rich and creamy as store-bought versions.

Whether you’re a home baker looking to cut costs or just want to try a cleaner version without preservatives, this homemade condensed milk recipe is the perfect solution. It’s thick, sweet, and incredibly versatile.

⭐ Why Make Condensed Milk at Home?

No preservatives or additives
Budget-friendly — save money with pantry staples
Perfect for emergencies when you run out of canned condensed milk
Customizable — you control the sugar content and thickness
Same texture and taste as the store-bought variety

This recipe is not only fast and easy, but it also stores well for future use. Let’s dive into how to make it from scratch using only two ingredients!

🛒 Ingredients for Homemade Condensed Milk

All you need is:

1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

✅ Tip: For a thicker version or longer shelf life, use powdered milk + hot water + sugar. See variations below.

🥣 How to Make Homemade Condensed Milk – Step-by-Step Instructions

🕒 Total Time: 20–25 minutes

🍽️ Yield: About 1 cup (equivalent to 1 store-bought can)

🔥 Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine:

1 cup whole milk
1 cup granulated sugar

Mix well before heating to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.

♨️ Step 2: Heat Slowly

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly to prevent burning or curdling. As the mixture warms up:

The sugar will begin to dissolve
The milk will slowly start thickening

Do not boil! A gentle simmer is all you need.

⏳ Step 3: Simmer and Stir

Keep stirring for 15–20 minutes, or until the mixture reduces by about a third. You’ll know it’s ready when:

It coats the back of a spoon
The texture is thick and syrupy
The color turns slightly off-white or creamy beige

❄️ Step 4: Cool and Store

Remove from heat and let cool completely. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Pour into a sterilized jar or airtight container
Refrigerate for up to 1 week

🧁 Uses for Homemade Condensed Milk

You can use this homemade version in any recipe that calls for traditional condensed milk, including:

Pies & Tarts (like key lime pie)
Cakes & Cupcakes
Brigadeiros and other Brazilian treats
Fudge
Ice cream base
No-bake cheesecakes
Sweetened coffee or milk tea

🥄 Variation: Powdered Milk Version (No Cooking Required)

If you don’t have fresh milk or want a longer-lasting pantry option, try this:

📌 Ingredients:

1 cup powdered milk
½ cup hot water
⅔ cup sugar
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)

🌀 Instructions:

Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth and creamy.
Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

This version is faster, shelf-stable before mixing, and perfect for emergency baking.

🧊 Storage Tips

Refrigerate in an airtight jar
Stays fresh for up to 7–10 days
For longer storage, freeze in silicone ice cube trays. Thaw and use as needed

Note: Homemade condensed milk may separate slightly when chilled. Just give it a quick stir or warm it slightly to restore the texture.

✅ Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Condensed Milk

Use whole milk for the creamiest texture. Low-fat milk will yield a thinner result.
Stir constantly — the milk can scorch easily.
Don’t rush — simmer slowly to avoid burning or curdling.
Want thicker milk? Simmer longer or use powdered milk version.
Add a pinch of baking soda during cooking to prevent crystallization (optional).

🍫 Flavor Boosters (Optional Add-ins)

If you’d like to enhance your condensed milk with extra flavors:

Vanilla Extract – ½ teaspoon after cooling
Cocoa Powder – for a homemade chocolate condensed milk
Coconut Milk – replace milk for a dairy-free version
Maple Syrup or Honey – substitute some sugar for richer sweetness

🧾 Nutrition (Per 1 Tbsp)

Calories: 62
Fat: 1.5g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 1g

(Note: Nutritional values will vary slightly depending on milk fat content and type of sugar used.)

🎯 Final Thoughts

Making your own homemade condensed milk is a smart and satisfying choice. Whether you’re out of canned condensed milk, looking to reduce your grocery bill, or just want a more natural alternative, this 2-ingredient recipe will never fail you.

It’s simple, quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for a wide variety of dessert recipes. Once you try it, you might never go back to the store-bought kind!