Sweetened condensed milk is a pantry staple that can be used to make a variety of delicious desserts. Its creamy texture and rich sweetness make it a versatile ingredient in baking, candies, and no-bake treats. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or a bit more intricate, there are many options to explore. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best desserts you can make using sweetened condensed milk and how to prepare them.
1. Classic Fudge
Fudge is a classic dessert that’s rich, creamy, and indulgent. Sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient that helps to achieve the perfect texture. The best part? You only need a few ingredients to make it.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups of chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Start by lining a square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter.
- Stir the mixture over low to medium heat until the chocolate chips and butter melt completely and everything is smooth.
- Once melted, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract if you’re using it.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours until it hardens.
- Cut the fudge into squares and enjoy!
2. Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie is a tangy and sweet dessert that’s loved for its smooth filling and buttery crust. Using sweetened condensed milk simplifies the process while adding the right amount of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup of lime juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
- Lime zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add the lime juice and whisk again until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Pour the lime filling into the graham cracker crust.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Let the pie cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least two hours before serving.
- Garnish with lime zest or whipped cream if desired.
3. No-Bake Cheesecake
No-bake cheesecakes are simple to make and require minimal ingredients. Sweetened condensed milk gives the cheesecake filling a smooth, creamy texture that sets perfectly without the need for baking.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 2 packages (16 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
- Fresh berries for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set.
- Top with fresh berries before serving.
4. Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are chewy, sweet, and satisfyingly crispy on the outside. They are easy to make with sweetened condensed milk and coconut flakes.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large egg whites
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the macaroons are golden brown.
- Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
5. Dulce de Leche
Dulce de leche is a rich, caramel-like treat that can be used in various desserts. Sweetened condensed milk is the key ingredient in making this delectable treat, which you can use as a filling for cakes, drizzled over ice cream, or spread on toast.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
- Place the can of sweetened condensed milk in a large pot and cover it with water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Let the can simmer for 2 to 3 hours, making sure the water covers the can at all times.
- After the time has passed, remove the can from the water and allow it to cool completely before opening.
- Once opened, the dulce de leche should be thick and caramelized. You can store it in a jar and refrigerate it for up to two weeks.
6. Thai Coconut Sticky Rice with Mango
This traditional Thai dessert combines sweetened coconut milk with sticky rice and fresh mango. The sweetened condensed milk adds richness to the coconut milk and gives the dish its signature sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup sticky rice (glutinous rice)
- 1 can of coconut milk
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
- Rinse the sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Steam the rice for about 30 minutes or until tender.
- In a saucepan, heat the coconut milk with the sweetened condensed milk, stirring occasionally until warm and smooth.
- Once the rice is done, pour the sweetened coconut milk mixture over the rice and mix well.
- Serve the sticky rice with fresh mango slices on top.
7. Ice Cream (No Machine)
Making ice cream at home doesn’t require an ice cream maker when you use sweetened condensed milk. This simple recipe gives you creamy, delicious ice cream without the hassle.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, crushed cookies, fruit, etc.
Instructions:
- Whip the heavy cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture, being careful not to deflate the cream.
- Add any mix-ins if desired.
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Scoop and serve!
8. Pavlova
Pavlova is a light and airy meringue-based dessert that’s topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Sweetened condensed milk can be used to make a smooth, creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the crispy meringue.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh fruit for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the meringue is glossy and stiff.
- Gently fold in the vinegar and vanilla extract.
- Spoon the meringue onto the baking sheet, forming a large circle.
- Bake for about 1.5 hours, then turn off the oven and let the meringue cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
- Once cooled, top with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
9. Caramel Flan (Crème Caramel)
Caramel flan is a smooth, creamy dessert that has a rich caramel flavor. Sweetened condensed milk is used in the custard to create a silky texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a small saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat until it melts and turns golden brown. Carefully pour the caramel into a round baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the baking dish.
- Place the baking dish in a larger pan and fill the pan with hot water (about halfway up the sides of the dish).
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the custard is set.
- Let it cool, then refrigerate for a few hours. To serve, run a knife around the edges and invert the flan onto a plate.
Conclusion
Sweetened condensed milk is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can elevate many desserts. From rich fudge and creamy cheesecakes to tropical treats and classic puddings, there are endless possibilities when you use this ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a simple no-bake dessert or a more complex recipe, sweetened condensed milk is a great option to ensure your desserts are deliciously rich and satisfying.
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