Condensed milk adds a rich sweetness to desserts that’s hard to match with other ingredients. This pantry staple transforms ordinary recipes into extraordinary treats, creating everything from creamy fudge to tangy key lime pie.
Whether you have a partial can leftover or bought some specifically for baking, these condensed milk recipes will help you create delicious desserts your family will love.
You’ll find countless ways to use sweetened condensed milk in your kitchen. Its thick, sweet nature makes it perfect for no-bake desserts, ice cream treats, and traditional baked goods.
From Thai iced tea to million dollar pie, the versatility of condensed milk spans across global cuisines and dessert styles.
1. Condensed Milk Cheesecake Slice
Condensed milk cheesecake slice is a creamy, sweet treat that’s perfect for morning or afternoon tea. This dessert combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of condensed milk for a smooth texture.
You can make this delicious cheesecake slice with just a handful of ingredients. The best part is that some versions don’t even require baking – they set up in about 3 hours in the refrigerator.
For a no-bake version, simply mix condensed milk with cream cheese until well combined. You can serve it straight from the fridge or even frozen for a different texture. Top with your favorite fruit or pie filling for extra flavor.
2. Lemon Curd and Coconut Milk Cake
This delightful dessert combines tangy lemon flavor with creamy coconut milk for an amazing taste experience. The cake is soaked in a mixture of coconut milk, evaporated milk, and condensed milk, giving it an incredibly moist texture.
To make this treat, you’ll start with a light cake base. After baking, you’ll poke holes throughout and pour the three-milk mixture over the top, allowing it to soak in completely.
The cake is then topped with lemon curd-infused whipped cream and shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture. The contrast between the sweet coconut and tart lemon creates a perfect balance.
This dessert is ideal for summer gatherings or whenever you want a refreshing cake option.
3. Caramilk and Condensed Milk Churros
Churros with a Caramilk and condensed milk twist offer a delicious treat for your sweet tooth. These crispy pastries combine the classic churro texture with an indulgent dipping sauce.
To make the churros, you’ll need butter, caster sugar, vanilla extract, plain flour, and eggs. The dough comes together quickly in a saucepan before being piped and fried to golden perfection.
For the dipping sauce, Caramilk chocolate and condensed milk create a thick, caramel-like consistency that pairs wonderfully with the warm churros. Finish with a dusting of icing sugar for that traditional churro look.
This recipe transforms the classic Spanish dessert into something extra special with minimal effort.
4. Pumpkin Pie with Condensed Milk
Pumpkin pie with sweetened condensed milk creates a smooth, creamy dessert perfect for holidays. This version is known for its silky texture and rich flavor.
To make this pie, you’ll need pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, melted butter, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess without requiring additional sugar.
Preparation is simple – just whisk all ingredients together and pour into a pie crust. The minimal prep time (about 10 minutes) makes this an easy option for busy holiday cooking.
This pie has a luscious, custard-like texture that sets it apart from traditional pumpkin pie.
5. Homemade Ice Cream with Condensed Milk
Making ice cream at home is easier than you think when you use sweetened condensed milk. You don’t need an ice cream maker for this simple treat.
The basic recipe requires just a few ingredients: sweetened condensed milk, whole milk or half and half, and vanilla extract. Some recipes use only four ingredients total.
The condensed milk adds sweetness and creates a smooth, creamy texture. It also helps prevent ice crystals from forming.
You can whip up the mixture in about 5 minutes, then just freeze it until solid. Try adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or cookie pieces for variety.
6. Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches Cake is a traditional dessert that features a light sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three milks. The name “tres leches” literally means “three milks” in Spanish.
This classic cake uses condensed milk as one of its key ingredients, along with evaporated milk and heavy cream. The three-milk mixture creates a moist, sweet cake that’s still somehow light.
The cake is typically topped with a layer of whipped cream. Some versions include meringue instead. It’s a popular dessert for spring and special occasions.
You can find many recipe variations, but most require soaking the cake overnight for best results.
7. Condensed Milk Brownies
Condensed milk brownies are a delightful treat that requires minimal ingredients. Most recipes call for just three to four items: chocolate, eggs, and sweetened condensed milk.
The condensed milk creates an incredibly fudgy texture that’s hard to achieve with other ingredients. These brownies turn out moist and rich with a perfectly chewy center.
You can make these from scratch or enhance a boxed mix by adding condensed milk to the standard instructions. The result is extra-moist brownies with a unique texture.
For an even more indulgent treat, add chocolate chips to the batter before baking. This simple dessert is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
8. Berry Condensed Milk Tart
This simple yet delicious treat combines the creamy sweetness of condensed milk with fresh berries for a perfect summer dessert. The contrast between the rich filling and tart berries creates a balanced flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
You can use blueberries for a Nordic-inspired version that’s especially popular during summer months. Strawberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries also work wonderfully.
The tart features a buttery crust that complements the smooth condensed milk filling. For the crust, you’ll need flour, butter, sugar, and egg yolk – simple ingredients that create the perfect base.
Top your tart with fresh berries just before serving for the most vibrant presentation and flavor.
9. Sugar Cookie Fudge
Sugar Cookie Fudge is a sweet treat that combines the flavors of sugar cookies with creamy fudge. It’s surprisingly simple to make with just a few ingredients.
The basic recipe calls for white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, sugar cookie mix, and sprinkles if you want to add color.
To prepare it, you’ll cook the ingredients on low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring until smooth. The result is a rich, creamy fudge that tastes just like sugar cookies.
This fudge makes a great addition to holiday cookie trays or as a special dessert for any gathering. It’s perfect when you want something sweet but don’t want to bake actual cookies.
10. Perfect Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk
Iced coffee with condensed milk offers a sweet, creamy twist on your regular cold brew. This Vietnamese-inspired drink is simple to make at home with just a few ingredients.
Start with strong coffee – dark roast works best. Brew it double-strength and let it cool completely. Pour the coffee over ice in a tall glass.
Add 2-3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk and stir well. The thick, sweet milk creates a perfect balance with the bitter coffee.
You can prepare coffee concentrate in advance and store it in your refrigerator. This makes it easy to enjoy this refreshing drink whenever you want.
11. Atlantic Beach Pie
Atlantic Beach Pie is a delightful dessert with a salty-sweet crust made from crushed saltine crackers. The filling is smooth and tangy, made with sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and fresh lemon or lime juice.
To make this pie, you’ll need about 60 saltines (1½ sleeves), sugar, sweetened condensed milk, 4 egg yolks, and ½ cup of citrus juice. You can use all lemon, all lime, or a mix of both juices depending on your preference.
The pie is typically topped with fresh whipped cream for a perfect finishing touch. This classic Southern dessert balances sweet, salty, and tangy flavors in each bite.
12. Millionaire’s Shortbread
Millionaire’s Shortbread is a decadent treat with three perfect layers. The base is a buttery, crisp shortbread that provides a solid foundation.
The middle layer features a rich, chewy caramel made from sweetened condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. This caramel sets to a perfect consistency that’s neither too soft nor too firm.
The top layer is a smooth chocolate ganache that adds the final touch of luxury. When you bite into this treat, you get the perfect combination of textures and flavors.
You can make this impressive dessert at home with simple ingredients. The layers need time to set, but the results are worth the wait.
13. Condensed Milk Muffins
Condensed milk muffins offer a moist, sweet treat that’s simple to make. The condensed milk adds richness and a unique sweetness that regular sugar can’t match.
You can make both sweet and savory versions of these muffins. Sweet versions work well with vanilla or fruit additions, while savory options include ham and cheese combinations.
To make these muffins, you’ll need a can of condensed milk (about 387g), flour, eggs, and your choice of add-ins. The batter comes together quickly, making this perfect for busy mornings.
When baking, use paper liners in your muffin tin and preheat your oven properly. The result is fluffy, tender muffins with a special sweetness from the condensed milk.
14. Caramel Flan
Caramel flan is a silky smooth custard dessert topped with a layer of caramel sauce. Its creamy texture makes it a perfect way to use condensed milk.
The basic ingredients include sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar for the caramel. Many recipes also add evaporated milk for extra richness.
To make flan, you’ll need to prepare a caramel by melting sugar until golden brown, then pour it into your baking dish. The custard mixture is blended until smooth, poured over the caramel, and baked in a water bath.
After cooling and chilling, flip the flan onto a plate where the caramel flows down the sides, creating a beautiful dessert.
15. Condensed Milk Pudding
Condensed milk pudding is a creamy, sweet dessert that’s simple to make. You only need a few ingredients to create this treat.
The classic Brazilian version blends condensed milk with eggs and regular milk. You can prepare it in a microwave by beating 3-4 eggs with one can of condensed milk and two cans of regular milk until foamy.
Pour the mixture into a dish and bake until set. Once cooled, the pudding has a smooth, custard-like texture that melts in your mouth.
You can customize your pudding with flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or cardamom. Some versions include caramel on top or bottom for extra sweetness.
16. Hot Chocolate Brownies
Hot chocolate brownies combine the best of both worlds – rich brownies and comforting hot cocoa. These treats use sweetened condensed milk to create an extra fudgy texture.
To make them, you’ll need chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. The condensed milk gives these brownies their signature moist and chewy quality.
You can bake these at 350°F for about 20 minutes. The trick is not to overbake them, as you want to maintain that gooey center.
These brownies make a perfect winter treat. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert.
17. Ginger & White Chocolate Cookies
These cookies blend warm ginger spice with creamy white chocolate chunks for a perfect treat. The sweetness of condensed milk creates a soft, chewy texture that’s irresistible.
You’ll love how the spicy ginger balances with the sweet white chocolate in every bite. These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea.
The condensed milk in the recipe makes these cookies extra moist and gives them a distinctive richness. They’re simple to make but impressive to serve.
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warm flavor profile even more.
18. Freezer Fudge with Condensed Milk
Freezer fudge is a simple treat that requires no cooking on the stove. You only need three basic ingredients: condensed milk, chocolate, and butter.
Mix melted chocolate with condensed milk and butter, then pour into a lined container. Place it in the freezer instead of letting it set at room temperature.
This method gives you a quicker version of traditional fudge. The cold temperature helps it firm up faster, usually in about 2 hours.
You can customize your freezer fudge with add-ins like nuts, cookie pieces, or dried fruit. Store leftovers in the freezer for up to one month.
19. Condensed Milk Pan Cake
Condensed milk pancakes offer a deliciously sweet twist on traditional pancakes. With just a few ingredients, you can create fluffy, sweet pancakes that don’t need additional syrup.
The basic recipe requires eggs, condensed milk, and self-rising flour. Some versions add melted butter for richness. You won’t need to add sugar since the condensed milk provides plenty of sweetness.
Mix all ingredients in one bowl until smooth. Pour the batter onto a hot pan and cook until bubbles form on top, then flip.
These pancakes pair wonderfully with butter, honey, or even more condensed milk drizzled on top for an extra indulgent breakfast treat.
20. Condensed Milk Frosting
Condensed milk frosting, also known as Russian buttercream, is an incredibly simple yet delicious topping for your baked goods. This easy frosting requires just two main ingredients: butter and sweetened condensed milk.
The result is a light, silky, and fluffy frosting that pipes beautifully on cakes and cupcakes. You’ll love how the sweetened condensed milk adds a rich, creamy sweetness without being overpowering.
To make it, you’ll need softened butter, chilled sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. The simplicity makes it perfect for beginners. For a chocolate version, just add cocoa powder to the basic recipe.
This versatile frosting works wonderfully on everything from chocolate cupcakes to vanilla cakes.
21. No-Churn Condensed Milk Ice Cream
Making ice cream at home has never been easier than with this no-churn method. You only need a few simple ingredients: sweetened condensed milk, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract.
The process is remarkably simple. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Then fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
You can customize your ice cream by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or cookie pieces. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 6 hours.
The condensed milk provides sweetness and prevents ice crystals from forming, resulting in a creamy texture without an ice cream maker.
Understanding Condensed Milk
Condensed milk is a kitchen staple that transforms ordinary recipes into extraordinary treats. This thick, sweet ingredient has been used in kitchens worldwide for generations and comes in different varieties to suit various cooking needs.
What Is Condensed Milk?
Condensed milk is regular cow’s milk with water removed and sugar added. The removal of about 60% of the water creates a thick, creamy texture that’s perfect for desserts. Most commonly found as sweetened condensed milk, this ingredient contains approximately 40-45% sugar by weight.
The manufacturing process involves heating the milk under vacuum, which allows water to evaporate at a lower temperature. This preserves more nutrients while creating a product with a long shelf life.
Sweetened condensed milk has a distinctive caramel color and syrupy consistency. Its concentrated sweetness makes it ideal for desserts, where it adds richness without requiring additional sugar.
Invented in the 1850s, condensed milk was originally created as a method of milk preservation before refrigeration was common.
Nutritional Information
Sweetened condensed milk is calorie-dense due to its concentrated nature. A single tablespoon (15ml) contains approximately:
- 65 calories
- 1.7g fat
- 11g carbohydrates (all from sugar)
- 1.7g protein
This ingredient is relatively high in calcium, providing about 5% of your daily needs per tablespoon. It also contains small amounts of vitamin A, B vitamins, and minerals like phosphorus.
Due to its high sugar content, condensed milk should be used in moderation. It’s not suitable for people with diabetes without careful portion control.
When used in recipes, remember that it contributes significant sweetness, so you may need to reduce other sugars accordingly.
Types of Condensed Milk
Sweetened Condensed Milk: The most common variety, containing added sugar. It’s shelf-stable for up to two years unopened and has a caramel-like color and thick consistency.
Unsweetened Condensed Milk: Also known as evaporated milk, this version has no added sugar. It’s less thick than the sweetened variety and useful in both sweet and savory dishes where you want creaminess without sweetness.
Flavored Condensed Milk: Manufacturers now offer varieties like chocolate, caramel, and dulce de leche. These specialty products save preparation steps when making specific desserts.
Plant-Based Alternatives: For those avoiding dairy, coconut condensed milk and soy condensed milk offer similar functionality in recipes. These alternatives work well in most recipes that call for traditional condensed milk.
Cooking Tips for Condensed Milk
Sweetened condensed milk can transform your desserts and drinks when used correctly. Knowing how to substitute, store, and avoid common pitfalls will help you get the most out of this versatile ingredient.
How to Substitute Condensed Milk
You can make your own condensed milk when you’re in a pinch. Combine 1 cup of powdered milk with 2/3 cup of sugar and 1/3 cup of hot water and blend until smooth.
For a dairy-free option, try coconut condensed milk. Simply simmer 2 cups of coconut milk with 1/2 cup of sugar until reduced by half.
When a recipe calls for sweetened condensed milk, don’t substitute evaporated milk without adjusting. They’re very different products with different sugar content and consistency.
If you need a less sweet version, try using evaporated milk mixed with about 1/4 cup of sugar per cup.
Storage and Shelf Life
Unopened cans of condensed milk can last up to 1 year past the “best by” date when stored in a cool, dry place. Check the can for dents or bulges before using.
Once opened, transfer any leftover condensed milk to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.
You can freeze condensed milk for up to 3 months. Pour it into ice cube trays for easy portioning, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag.
Don’t store condensed milk in the original can after opening. The metal can affect the flavor and potentially contaminate the product.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t confuse sweetened condensed milk with evaporated milk. Condensed milk contains added sugar and is much thicker.
When making caramel, never boil the can unopened on the stove. Boiling the can unopened is dangerous and can cause the can to explode. Instead, pour the milk into a saucepan or use a safer water bath method.
Avoid adding condensed milk too early when making ice cream or cold desserts. The high sugar content can prevent proper freezing.
When measuring condensed milk, spray your measuring cup with non-stick spray first. This helps the sticky milk slide out completely.
