5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
If you’ve ever found yourself needing a quick sweetener or a creamy ingredient for your desserts but didn’t want to run to the store, then you’re going to love this easy recipe for 5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk. It’s incredibly simple to whip up with pantry staples and delivers that rich, luscious texture and sweetness just like the canned versions, but fresher, tastier, and with no preservatives. Whether you want it for drizzling over pancakes, mixing into coffee, or baking your favorite treats, this homemade version will quickly become your secret weapon in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this 5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk happens with just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the dry milk powder offers that creamy base, sugar provides the perfect sweetness, butter adds richness, and hot water helps bring it all together into that silky texture we love.
- Whole milk powder: This is the heart of the recipe, giving it that velvety creaminess without the moisture of liquid milk.
- White granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture and helps create that thick syrupy consistency.
- Hot water: Dissolves the sugar and butter, forming a silky syrup as the foundation.
- Butter: Adds a lovely depth and smooth mouthfeel that mimics the richness of classic condensed milk.
How to Make 5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk
Step 1: Create the Sugar-Butter Syrup
Start by combining the sugar, butter, and hot water in a food processor or a mixing bowl if you’re using a hand mixer. Whisk or blend until the sugar completely dissolves and the butter melts into the warm syrup. What you’re aiming for is a clear, golden liquid that sets the stage for the creamy magic to come. This step is key because a smooth, lump-free base ensures your condensed milk has that wonderfully consistent texture.
Step 2: Blend in the Milk Powder
Next, add the whole milk powder to the syrup mixture. Pulse or mix continuously to incorporate it fully. This can take a few minutes, so patience here pays off. You’ll notice the mixture thickening and becoming glossy, transforming into that classic condensed milk look and feel. It might require stopping to scrape down the sides occasionally, but once it’s creamy and thick, you’ve nailed it!
Step 3: Store and Chill
Once your 5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk is smooth and thick, transfer it to a clean jar or airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. Chilling helps it set properly and taste even richer. Stored right, it’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 6 months, ready whenever you need a sweet boost.
How to Serve 5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk

Garnishes
This luscious condensed milk is a beautiful finish to so many desserts. Drizzle it over fresh fruit like berries or mangoes to add a creamy, sweet touch. You can also swirl it atop a warm brownie, sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for some delightful texture contrasts that will impress any guest.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside traditional desserts such as puddings, tres leches cake, or steamed buns for dipping. It also makes a dreamy dip for sweet potato fries or churros, bringing a luxurious creaminess that elevates these simple sides to something special.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by transforming your 5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk into flavored variations. Add a hint of vanilla extract, cinnamon, or even a pinch of cocoa powder to tailor it to your dessert mood. You can also fold it into whipped cream for an irresistibly smooth topping or use it as the sweetener and base in homemade ice cream recipes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This recipe makes about a cup of condensed milk, which is perfect for several dessert projects, but if you have leftovers, just make sure they stay sealed tight in an airtight jar. Keeping it chilled in the fridge preserves its freshness and texture for up to half a year, so it’s great for making ahead during busy holidays.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s generally not ideal for 5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk because the texture can separate slightly once thawed. If you do freeze it, make sure to use a freezer-safe container and allow it to thaw slowly in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
If you want to use the condensed milk warm, simply heat it gently in a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring often to keep it smooth and avoid scorching. Warmed up, it’s perfect for drizzling over warm desserts or mixing into hot drinks.
FAQs
Can I use skim milk powder instead of whole milk powder?
You can swap in skim milk powder, but keep in mind the texture and flavor won’t be as rich or creamy. Whole milk powder gives your condensed milk that classic indulgent mouthfeel.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
This version isn’t vegan because of the butter and milk powder, but you could experiment with non-dairy powdered milk and vegan butter to create a plant-based variation.
Can I make this recipe without a food processor?
Absolutely! Use a whisk or hand mixer to combine the ingredients thoroughly, just be prepared for a little more arm work and to be patient while achieving that silky texture.
How long does homemade condensed milk last in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, your homemade condensed milk will last up to 6 months refrigerated, which is way longer than most fresh dairy products.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes! If you prefer a less sweet condensed milk, reduce the sugar slightly, but remember, sugar also helps with the texture and preservation, so don’t cut it too drastically.
Final Thoughts
Making your own 5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk is not only super satisfying but also wonderfully practical. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal time, you can enrich your desserts and drinks with a homemade touch that canned just cannot match. Give this easy recipe a try – I promise it will become a kitchen staple you’ll turn to again and again!
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5 Minute Homemade Condensed Milk Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy homemade condensed milk recipe that takes just 5 minutes using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for baking, coffee, or desserts, this recipe yields a creamy, thick condensed milk substitute without the need for canned products.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk powder (keep powdered, not reconstituted)
- 2/3 cup white granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup hot water
- 3 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Combine Sugar, Butter, and Water: Add the sugar, butter, and hot water into a food processor. Whisk together until the sugar dissolves completely and the butter melts into liquid. The mixture should resemble a clear sugar syrup.
- Add Milk Powder: Add the whole milk powder to the sugar syrup mixture. Pulse the food processor until everything is combined and the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency similar to canned condensed milk. This process can take a few minutes, so be patient and scrape down the sides as needed.
- Store the Condensed Milk: Transfer the homemade condensed milk to a clean jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for up to 6 months. Use as needed in recipes or as a sweetener in beverages.
Notes
- Use whole milk powder for the richest, creamiest result.
- Ensure sugar fully dissolves for a smooth texture.
- Pulse the mixture carefully to avoid over-processing and achieve the right thickness.
- Store refrigerated and always use a clean spoon to maintain freshness.
- This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of condensed milk, enough for medium-sized baking projects or beverage sweetening.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Condiments, Baking Ingredient
- Method: Food Processor Blending
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30ml)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: homemade condensed milk, quick condensed milk, dairy recipe, baking ingredient, sugar syrup, milk powder condensed milk