Dairy | N/ A

Condensed Milk

Bos taurus Allergens: Milk
condensed milk

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (Animal product)
  • Primary Cuisine Global (Latin American, Southeast Asian, American)
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's milk

The Forktionary Angle

"The sweet, creamy secret to many classic desserts and beverages."

Definition

Cow's milk from which water has been removed and sugar added, resulting in a thick, sweet, syrupy liquid used in desserts.

Sensory Profile

TasteVery Sweet, Creamy, Caramelized
TextureThick, Viscous, Syrupy, Smooth
AromaDairy, Sweet, Caramel, Toffee
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Opened Storage

5-7 days refrigerated

Sugar Content

~55% by weight

Water Reduction

Reduced by ~60% from fresh milk

Nutrition Facts

Per 2 tbsp (30ml)
Calories321 kcal
Total Fat8.7 g
Saturated Fat5.4 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol34 mg
Protein8 g
Total Carbohydrate55 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars55 g
Calcium280 mg
Iron0.2 mg
Potassium380 mg

Chef’s Secret

To make dulce de leche, simmer an unopened can of sweetened condensed milk in boiling water for 2-3 hours. Allow to cool completely before opening.

Substitutions

Best Match

Evaporated Milk + Sugar

1 cup evaporated milk + 1 cup sugar, simmered

Closest homemade substitute for texture and sweetness; requires cooking to thicken.

Coconut Milk (full-fat) + Sugar

1 can coconut milk + 1/2 cup sugar, simmered

Excellent vegan/dairy-free alternative, but introduces coconut flavor; suitable for many desserts.

Heavy Cream + Sugar

1 cup heavy cream + 1/2 cup sugar, simmered

Can create a similar rich, thick syrup, but will have a richer dairy flavor and higher fat content.

White Chocolate (melted)

Varies

For sweetness and thickness in some no-bake recipes, but provides distinct white chocolate flavor and may seize.

Buying Guide

Check for 'sweetened condensed milk' as unsweetened condensed milk is evaporated milk.

Flavor Pairings

Coffee lime coconut chocolate caramel fruit toast.

Recipes Using Condensed Milk

Occasion Low Sodium 15 Minutes Or Less 3 Steps Or Less

Pink Stuff Cherry Pie Filling Pineapple Dessert

This incredibly easy holiday dessert (or is it a side dish? The debate is ongoing!) is a family favorite that's guaranteed to disappear fast. Bursting with the sweet taste of cherries and pineapple, this Pink Stuff miracle is ready in minutes and requires minimal effort. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a simple weeknight treat!

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Preparation Eggs Dairy Preparation Dietary

30 Minute Lemon Meringue Pie

Whip up this dreamy 30-Minute Lemon Meringue Pie! This quick and easy recipe delivers the classic tangy lemon filling and fluffy meringue topping you crave, all without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for weeknight desserts or impressive gatherings.

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Time To Make Bar Cookies 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

7 Layer Bar

Indulge in the irresistible magic of our 7 Layer Bars! This easy-to-make dessert recipe delivers a delightful symphony of textures and flavors, from a buttery graham cracker crust to creamy layers of chocolate chips, coconut, butterscotch chips, and walnuts, all topped with a luscious drizzle of sweetened condensed milk. Get ready for a treat that will disappear in minutes! Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or satisfying your own sweet tooth.

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Main Ingredient Cuisine Time To Make Spicy

Albuquerque Pinon Red Chile Fudge

Indulge in the fiery magic of the Southwest with our Albuquerque Piñon Red Chile Fudge! This recipe delivers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy, making it a perfect holiday gift or hostess present. The subtle heat of the red chile perfectly complements the rich piñon flavor and creamy chocolate. Prepare the dry ingredients in advance in a mason jar for an unforgettable, easy-to-give gift! This recipe is surprisingly easy and tastes unbelievably delicious.

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Cookies And Brownies Preparation Dietary 4 Hours Or Less

Alfajores

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of homemade Alfajores! This authentic South American recipe, adapted from a Nestle classic, yields incredibly delicious sandwich cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth dulce de leche filling. While it requires a bit of time and effort, the rewarding taste is well worth it. Prepare to impress your friends and family with these delightful treats!

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Course Course 4 Hours Or Less Holiday Event

Amaretto Almond Cheesecake 1999

Indulge in this easy-to-make Amaretto Almond Cheesecake, a delightful dessert from 1999! This creamy, dreamy cheesecake boasts a buttery almond crust and a rich, amaretto-infused filling, topped with crunchy toasted almonds. Perfect for special occasions or a weeknight treat!

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Tropical Fruit 1 Day Or More Tropical Fruit Low Calorie

Ambrosia

This classic Ambrosia Salad recipe is a refreshing and vibrant mix of sweet fruits, creamy coconut, and crunchy nuts. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a light summer dessert! Get ready for a taste of paradise.

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5 Ingredients Or Less Desserts Time To Make Easy

Angel Bread Slices

These irresistible Angel Bread Slices are a quick and easy treat the whole family will adore! Crispy, coconut-covered bread, perfectly sweetened – ready in under 30 minutes. A simple recipe perfect for busy weeknights or weekend fun!

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Time To Make Tex Mex Course Cakes

Anna's Tres Leches Cake

Indulge in this incredibly moist and rich Tres Leches Cake, a family favorite! Originally adapted from a VeryBestBaking.com recipe, this cake is incredibly easy to make and delivers unbelievably delicious results. Perfect for any occasion, its creamy texture and subtle sweetness will leave everyone wanting more. Serve chilled for a refreshing treat or at room temperature for a decadent dessert.

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Berries Course Berries Apples

Apple Cranberry Streusel Custard Pie

This Apple Cranberry Streusel Custard Pie is a decadent explosion of fall flavors! Imagine a flaky pie crust cradling a creamy, spiced custard brimming with sweet apples and tart cranberries. Topped with a buttery, crunchy streusel topping, this pie is perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert. This recipe uses seasonal apples for a truly autumnal treat.

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Desserts Main Ingredient Pitted Fruit Preparation

Apricot Cherry Bars

Dive into delightful apricot cherry bliss with this recipe, originally featured in the USA Weekend newspaper (Dec 10-12, 2004). These irresistible fruit bars offer a burst of sweet and tart flavor in every bite. A perfect treat for any occasion, but remember to carefully remove any stray cherry pits before baking for a truly enjoyable experience!

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Easy Fruit Low Fat Occasion

Aubby Gobby Nana Muffins

These delightful Aubby Gobby Nana Muffins are a must-try recipe! Inspired by a Zaar World Tour 5 submission, this recipe delivers tender, moist muffins bursting with irresistible nana flavor. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat. Easy to make and even easier to devour!

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15 Minutes Or Less Course Easy 15 Minutes Or Less

Avocado Pie

This surprisingly delicious avocado pie tastes just like key lime pie, but with a luxuriously creamy texture! It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. Cool and refreshing, this no-bake recipe will become your new favorite summer dessert.

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Holiday Event 3 Steps Or Less Cocktails Taste Mood

Beautiful Nescafe Oriental Spring

Indulge in the exotic flavors of the Beautiful Nescafe Oriental Spring! This quick and easy recipe blends the rich aroma of orange blossom water (or rose water) with the comforting warmth of Nescafé, creating a delightful hot beverage perfect for a cozy evening or a sophisticated treat. Inspired by the Nescafé cocktail menu cookbook, this recipe is sure to become your new favorite. Discover the magic of this aromatic and delicious drink!

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Cuisine Preparation Brazilian For Large Groups

Beijinho De Coco Brazilian Coconut Balls

Indulge in the delightful taste of Beijinho De Coco, a beloved Brazilian coconut candy! These melt-in-your-mouth balls are a delightful twist on the classic brigadeiro, swapping rich chocolate for the sweet embrace of coconut. A staple at Brazilian children's birthday parties, these irresistible treats are incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Get ready to experience a taste of Brazil with every bite!

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Bananas Main Ingredient 30 Minutes Or Less Low Protein

Best Banana Pudding

This incredibly easy and luscious banana pudding recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a sweet treat any day of the week. Your family and friends will be begging for more of this creamy, dreamy dessert, featuring layers of vanilla pudding, Nilla Wafers, and perfectly ripe bananas. Get ready for rave reviews!

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4 Hours Or Less Oven Weeknight Dietary

Best Ever Pumpkin Pie

Indulge in the ultimate Thanksgiving tradition with our Best Ever Southern Pumpkin Pie recipe! This creamy, spiced pumpkin pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfected for Southern living and always a highlight of Thanksgiving dinner. Get ready to experience the rich, comforting flavors of fall with every delicious bite!

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Cookies And Brownies 4 Hours Or Less For Large Groups Inexpensive

Bikkies Cookies From Heaven

Indulge in these heavenly Bikkies Cookies, a recipe straight from Good Taste November 2008! These chewy, delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion – especially a child's recreation group. Get ready for melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness with a delightful blend of craisins and chocolate. This recipe makes a generous batch, so get ready to share (or not!).

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