How to make low-fat or non-dairy versions of condensed milk?
For a non-dairy version, simmer two 14 oz cans of full-fat coconut milk with about 1/2 cup sugar until reduced and thick; recipes quote roughly 30 to 45 minutes. It will not be low-fat, and light coconut milk is unlikely to thicken well. We found no reliable tested method for a truly low-fat homemade condensed milk, so buy a reduced-fat can or use the full-fat version in small amounts.
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In this article
How do you make non-dairy condensed milk?
The standard approach is coconut milk. A popular recipe uses two 14 oz cans of full-fat coconut milk and about 1/2 cup of sugar (honey or coconut sugar also work; coconut sugar gives a darker, caramel color). Heat the coconut milk with the sweetener, whisking until dissolved, then simmer gently, stirring now and then, until it is reduced and thick (recipes quote roughly 30 to 45 minutes in total). Cool it fully in a glass jar and refrigerate. It makes about 12 to 14 oz.
Can you make it low-fat?
Not well. Coconut recipes use full-fat coconut milk, and light coconut milk, being more watery, is unlikely to thicken to a creamy texture. We did not find any tested low-fat recipe, so we are not going to invent one. Options that do work:
- Look for a reduced-fat or fat-free sweetened condensed milk on the shelf; availability varies, so check the label for fat per serving.
- Use less: a smaller amount of the full-fat version in a recipe can give the flavor with less fat overall.
- Choose a different dessert base: if you need a light texture, a thin custard or a fruit puree can replace condensed milk in some desserts.
Tips for success
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Too thin | Simmer longer; it thickens as it cools |
| Burnt or scorched | Lower the heat and stir; use a heavy pan |
| Too coconut-flavored | Use in strong flavors such as coffee or chocolate |
| Sweetness off | Taste and adjust sugar before the last few minutes |
How do you use it?
Coconut condensed milk is often used 1:1 in place of regular sweetened condensed milk in no-bake desserts, fudge, ice cream bases, pies and coffee. It will taste of coconut. Keep it in the refrigerator and use it within a few days; treat that as a guide, not an official shelf life.
Note: coconut is a tree nut for some labeling, and nutrition values vary by brand, so read the label if you have an allergy or need exact numbers. This is general kitchen guidance.
People also ask
Can you use light coconut milk for condensed milk?
Not recommended. It is more watery, so it is unlikely to get thick and creamy; recipes use full-fat.
What is a dairy-free substitute for condensed milk?
Homemade condensed coconut milk is the most common. Some stores also sell ready-made versions.
Does homemade coconut condensed milk keep?
Refrigerate it in a clean sealed jar and use it within a few days. There is no official shelf life for homemade versions.
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