How to Convert One Cup of Evaporated Milk and One Cup of Sugar into Sweetened Condensed Milk

Have you ever considered making your own sweetened condensed milk but were unsure of the process? In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the steps to transform one cup of evaporated milk and one cup of sugar into a rich, creamy, and delicious sweetened condensed milk. This guide includes a method for using either traditional evaporated milk or non-dairy milk and provides tips for achieving the perfect texture and taste.

Overview of the Process

The process involves simmering a milk and sugar mixture until it thickens and reduces. The end result is a versatile and convenient sweetened condensed milk that you can use in a variety of recipes, ranging from flan to dairy-free desserts. By following the steps below, you can achieve a smoother and more foolproof condensed milk than the traditional version.

Materials Needed

One cup of evaporated milk (or non-dairy milk) One cup of white or brown sugar Salt (1/16 teaspoon of kosher salt for best results) A pot and a heat-safe container A sieve or strainer A whisk or spoon for stirring

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Combine Evaporated Milk and Sugar
Start by combining the one cup of evaporated milk or non-dairy milk with one cup of sugar. If you want to make a larger batch, use two cans of evaporated milk and 1.5 cups of sugar for each 1-1.5 cups of condensed milk yield.

Step 2: Add Salt
Add a pinch of salt (1/16 teaspoon of kosher salt) to the mixture. Salt enhances the sweetness and helps to thicken the mixture.

Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Place the mixture in a pot and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir the mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. Continue to simmer until the mixture has reduced by about half and has begun to thicken, which should take approximately 30 minutes.

Step 4: Strain the Mixture
Once the mixture has thickened, pour it through a sieve placed over a heat-safe container to remove any dark caramelized bits. This step ensures that your sweetened condensed milk is smooth and free of bits.

Step 5: Cool and Store
Allow the sweetened condensed milk to cool completely before covering it tightly with a lid and storing it in the refrigerator. Sweetened condensed milk should be used within 2 to 4 weeks for best quality.

Comparison of Condensed Milk and Evaporated Milk

Sugar:
Condensed milk is made by boiling down whole milk and sugar to create a gooey, sweet liquid. On the other hand, evaporated milk is made by removing most of the water from the milk, resulting in a thicker consistency without added sugar.

Usage:
Condensed milk is primarily used to sweeten desserts like flan, while evaporated milk is often used to enrich recipes without adding sweetness.

Conversion:
If you want to convert evaporated milk into condensed milk, you can caramelize some sugar in a pan before adding the evaporated milk. However, it is recommended to just buy sweetened condensed milk if possible, as it is more convenient and already has the perfect consistency and sweetness.

By understanding the differences and following the steps above, you can successfully transform your evaporated milk and sugar into a creamy and flavorful sweetened condensed milk. This DIY method can save you money and allow you to experiment with different flavors and recipes at home.

Conclusion

Creating your own sweetened condensed milk is a rewarding experience that allows you to customize the sweetness and texture to your liking. Whether you are looking to sweeten desserts or enrich recipes, follow this guide to make your own sweetened condensed milk. Enjoy experimenting with different recipes and flavors, and don't hesitate to reach out for further tips and tricks!