CRAVING something sweet but don't have condensed milk in your pantry? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we'll guide you through the delightful world of condensed milk and show you how to create lip-smacking desserts and treats using this versatile ingredient. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills while enjoying the sweet rewards. Let's dive in!
What is Condensed Milk?
Before we start making the sweet and creamy goodness, let's understand what condensed milk is. Condensed milk is a thick, creamy, and sweetened milk product that is made by removing most of the water content from regular milk. It has a rich, caramel-like flavour and a smooth texture that adds depth to various desserts.
Benefits of Homemade Condensed Milk
Making your own condensed milk has several advantages. Firstly, you have control over the ingredients, allowing you to choose high-quality milk and natural sweeteners. Additionally, it saves you a trip to the store and helps you avoid preservatives or additives found in store-bought versions. Plus, homemade condensed milk can be customised to suit dietary restrictions such as using vegan milk or alternative sweeteners.
Simple DIY Condensed Milk Recipe
Now, let's get down to business and learn how to make condensed milk in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow these easy steps:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Pour the milk into a thick-bottomed saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. Gradually add the sugar while stirring continuously to dissolve it completely.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the milk simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours until it reduces in volume and thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
4. Once the milk reaches a thick, syrupy consistency similar to that of condensed milk, remove it from the heat and let it cool.
5. Transfer the homemade condensed milk to a sterilised jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
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Now that you have your homemade condensed milk, let's explore some delightful recipes that will make your taste buds tingle!
Classic Condensed Milk Fudge
This creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness is a staple in many households, loved for its smooth texture and rich flavour. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this fudge is a delight to whip up and a joy to savour.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of homemade condensed milk
- 2 cups of icing sugar
- ½ cup of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the homemade condensed milk, icing sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well until smooth.
3. Continue cooking the mixture on low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to come off the sides of the pan.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and refrigerate until set.
5. Once firm, cut into squares and indulge in the creamy goodness of condensed milk fudge!
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Condensed Milk Ice Cream
This luscious frozen treat combines the velvety smoothness of condensed milk with the creamy richness of heavy cream, resulting in a dessert that is pure bliss on a hot day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1 cup of homemade condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Whip the heavy cream in a bowl until stiff peaks form.
2. Gently fold in the homemade condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 6 hours or until solid.
4. Scoop out the creamy condensed milk ice cream and savour each spoonful.
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Condensed Milk Tart
This dessert combines a buttery, crumbly crust with a silky smooth filling that perfectly balances the sweetness of homemade condensed milk and the tanginess of lemon. The result is a delightful treat that will transport you to a world of comfort and joy.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups of digestive biscuit crumbs
- 1/3 cup of melted butter
- 1 cup of homemade condensed milk
- 3 eggs
- ¼ cup of lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C.
2. In a bowl, combine the digestive biscuit crumbs and melted butter until well mixed.
3. Press the mixture into the base of a greased tart tin, spreading it evenly to form the crust.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the homemade condensed milk, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared crust.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set.
7. Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy the tangy and creamy goodness of condensed milk tart!