Condensed milk

The dessert that sweetens your days: Homemade condensed milk

Who doesn't love a versatile ingredient that can transform any sweet dish into a masterpiece? Condensed milk is undoubtedly one of those magical ingredients that adds creaminess, sweetness, and a rich flavor to our favorite desserts. In this recipe, I will show you how to make condensed milk at home with a simple and quick recipe that will satisfy not only your sweet tooth but also your desire to create something special.

Total preparation time: 20 minutes
Servings: 200 ml condensed milk

Ingredients:
- 75 ml hot water
- 40 g sugar
- 60 g honey
- 60 g butter
- 130 g unsweetened powdered milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Helpful tips:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature before you start preparing; this will help it melt more easily into the mixture.
- You can use different types of honey to achieve distinct flavors; sunflower honey has a more neutral taste, while lime honey adds a floral note.
- Unsweetened powdered milk is essential to control the sweetness level of the final product. Avoid using sweetened powdered milk, as it will make the condensed milk too sweet.

Step by step:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Measure the sugar, honey, butter, and powdered milk accurately. It’s important to follow the recipe closely to achieve a perfect result.

2. Mix sugar and honey: In a small bowl, combine the 40 g of sugar with 60 g of honey. Mix well until the sugar partially dissolves. This will help create a more homogeneous texture in your condensed milk.

3. Add the butter: In the same bowl, add the 60 g of butter. You can cut the butter into small cubes to help it melt faster. Stir until the butter is completely melted and incorporated into the mixture.

4. Incorporate hot water: In a separate cup, add 75 ml of hot water. Pour the water into the sugar, honey, and butter mixture. Whisk vigorously with a whisk or hand mixer until you obtain a smooth and fluffy composition.

5. Add the powdered milk: Gradually incorporate the 130 g of unsweetened powdered milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. You can use a mixer on low speed to achieve a fine texture.

6. Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. This will enhance the flavor and give a wonderful aroma to your dessert.

7. Cool the condensed milk: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and let it cool. You can use a glass jar or a plastic container. Cover it and refrigerate for about 1-2 hours to thicken.

8. Enjoy: Once the condensed milk has cooled and thickened, it is ready to use! You can add it to coffee, use it as an ingredient in cakes, or even in various ice cream recipes.

Possible variations:
- Flavored condensed milk: You can experiment with other flavors by adding, for example, cinnamon or cocoa for chocolate condensed milk.
- Dairy-free: If you prefer a vegan version, you can replace the butter with vegan margarine and the powdered milk with almond or coconut milk powder.

Nutritional benefits:
Homemade condensed milk is a healthier alternative to commercial ones, which often contain preservatives and additives. By using natural ingredients like honey and butter, you enjoy a cleaner and more nutritious product. Additionally, powdered milk is an excellent source of protein and calcium.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use sweetened powdered milk?
- It is recommended to use unsweetened powdered milk to control sweetness, but if you choose to use sweetened, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.

2. How can I use condensed milk?
- Condensed milk is perfect for sweetening coffee, in various desserts, or even as a filling for pancakes or pastries. You can experiment with it in your favorite recipes.

3. How long does condensed milk last?
- Condensed milk can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent odor absorption.

4. Can I freeze condensed milk?
- While not recommended, you can freeze condensed milk, but the texture may change once thawed. Use it only in cooked dishes after thawing.

Serving and delicious combinations:
Condensed milk can be served with a spoonful of melted chocolate and a few slices of fresh fruit for a quick and elegant dessert. It also pairs well with chocolate cakes or puddings, and for a complete experience, green tea or cappuccino pairs perfectly.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try making condensed milk at home. With simple and easily found ingredients, you can bring a touch of sweetness to every day. Enjoy the cooking process and, above all, the final result!