How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk (Bold Baking Basics)

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk involves heating full or low-fat milk with white sugar until the sugar dissolves. The mixture is then gently simmered for 35 to 40 minutes without stirring after it begins simmering, allowing it to reduce by half and thicken with a creamy color. Foam forming on top should be skimmed off carefully. Avoid stirring once simmering starts to prevent crystallization or cracking of the milk.

The resulting condensed milk has a richer color and concentrated sweetness, equivalent to about one cup after reduction. It can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to six months. Variations include using nut milks or natural caramelizing sugars like maple syrup or coconut sugar, but artificial sweeteners are unsuitable as they do not caramelize properly.