Have you ever found yourself craving a decadent dessert but realized your pantry was missing eggs and butter? Fear not, because sweetened condensed milk can be the secret ingredient to whip up scrumptious treats that are egg-free, butter-free, yet so delectably rich. In this post, we'll delve into the wonderful world of desserts made with sweetened condensed milk, a versatile ingredient that brings a unique sweetness and creaminess to your table. Let's embark on this journey where your kitchen will turn into a haven for those with allergies, diet restrictions, or just a plain lazy craving for sweets!
What is Sweetened Condensed Milk?
Before we dive into the recipes, understanding what sweetened condensed milk is can be quite helpful. Sweetened condensed milk is essentially milk from which water has been removed and sugar has been added. This process not only extends its shelf life but also gives it a thick, syrupy consistency with a rich, caramel-like flavor due to the Maillard reaction during the cooking process. Here are some key points:
- Concentration: It has about 60% sugar by weight, making it much sweeter than evaporated milk.
- Viscosity: Ideal for use in recipes where you want a creamy texture without the addition of extra liquid.
- Flavor: It has a caramel-like flavor that adds depth to desserts.
Advantages of Using Sweetened Condensed Milk
Here are several advantages of using sweetened condensed milk in your baking:
- Convenience: With its long shelf life, it’s perfect for spontaneous baking.
- Richness: It provides a rich, creamy base that replaces the need for butter or eggs in some recipes.
- Stabilizer: It acts as a stabilizer, making your desserts more consistent in texture.
- Flavour Enhancer: The natural caramel flavor enhances the overall taste of your treats.
Delicious Dessert Recipes Without Butter or Eggs
Let’s explore some delightful recipes where sweetened condensed milk shines:
Magic Bars
Magic Bars, also known as Hello Dollies, are legendary for their simplicity and delightful taste. Here’s how you can make them:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup butter or margarine (optional, can be substituted with coconut oil or more condensed milk for a vegan version)
- 1 cup of your favorite toppings like chocolate chips, nuts, coconut flakes, etc.
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter or margarine and press into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Layer your chosen toppings over the crust.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the toppings.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
🥣 Note: If you're avoiding butter entirely, you can use more condensed milk or coconut oil to bind the graham cracker crust.
Fudge
Fudge is one of the easiest desserts you can make, requiring just sweetened condensed milk and chocolate:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups chocolate chips (or any preferred chocolate type)
Steps:
- In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, combine chocolate chips and condensed milk.
- Heat gently, stirring frequently until chocolate is fully melted and mixture is smooth.
- Pour into a lined 8x8 inch pan and chill until set, about 2 hours.
- Cut into squares and enjoy.
🍫 Note: Customize your fudge by adding nuts, coconut, or peanut butter before setting.
No-Bake Cheesecake
A no-bake cheesecake can be whipped up in no time with the creaminess of condensed milk:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute with coconut cream for a vegan option)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened (or a vegan cream cheese alternative)
- 1 Graham cracker crust or digestive biscuit base
- Lemon juice, vanilla extract, or fruit purees for flavor
Steps:
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then slowly mix in the condensed milk.
- Add flavoring agents and whip cream until stiff peaks form, then fold into the cheese mixture.
- Pour into your crust and chill for at least 3-4 hours before serving.
🍋 Note: Adding a bit of citrus zest or puree can bring a refreshing twist to your cheesecake.
Tips for Substituting Sweetened Condensed Milk in Recipes
If you want to make more of your own recipes or adapt traditional ones:
- Replace each egg with ¼ cup of condensed milk. Adjust the liquid content in your recipe accordingly.
- When substituting for butter, use ½ cup condensed milk for each cup of butter. This is especially useful in fudge recipes.
- For vegan versions, consider using coconut milk condensed milk which provides a similar texture and sweetness.
Wrapping Up Your Sweetened Condensed Milk Journey
We’ve explored how sweetened condensed milk can transform your baking, making it easier to create decadent desserts without the need for eggs or butter. Whether it’s the simplicity of Fudge, the layered delight of Magic Bars, or the creamy no-bake cheesecake, sweetened condensed milk offers a convenient and delicious substitute that is both versatile and surprisingly forgiving in recipes. This ingredient not only simplifies your dessert preparation but also ensures that your sweets are rich, flavorful, and loved by all who taste them. Sweetened condensed milk is a pantry essential for anyone looking to add a touch of sweetness and creaminess to their treats with minimal effort.
Can I make homemade sweetened condensed milk?
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Yes, you can! You’ll need milk and sugar. Heat them together in a saucepan until reduced by about half, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Strain and cool to achieve a similar consistency and flavor to store-bought versions.
How long does sweetened condensed milk last once opened?
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Once opened, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it should last for about a week. However, for the best quality, try to use it within a few days.
Is there a non-dairy substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
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Yes, many brands offer coconut milk-based sweetened condensed milk which works well in most recipes. Alternatively, you can make your own by reducing coconut milk with sugar.
