There are certain ingredients that show up in recipes and instantly make you pause a little. Sweetened condensed milk is one of them. It’s rich, creamy, and tied to so many classic desserts… but if you’re dairy-free or vegan, it can feel like one of those things that’s just off the table.
I’ve never been a fan of that mindset.
Because more often than not, it just takes a small shift to make something work, and this vegan sweetened condensed milk is one of those recipes that proves it.
It’s simple, approachable, and made with just two ingredients. No complicated substitutions, no specialty products. Just a can of coconut milk and a bit of sugar, simmered down into something thick, glossy, and perfectly sweet.
It’s so easy that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.
Why Make Your Own Vegan Condensed Milk?
If you’ve ever gone looking for a dairy-free condensed milk at the store, you’ve probably noticed the options can be limited (or expensive). And sometimes, they come with added ingredients that you don’t necessarily want or need.
Making it at home gives you full control.
Using full-fat coconut milk creates that signature richness and creamy texture you expect from traditional condensed milk. As it slowly simmers, the liquid reduces and thickens, transforming into something silky and spoonable. It’s one of those processes that feels a little bit like kitchen magic, even though it’s incredibly straightforward.
And while it does take some time on the stove, most of it is hands-off. A gentle simmer, the occasional stir, and you’re well on your way.
A Note on Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
Because this recipe is so simple, the ingredients really do make a difference.
I always recommend using a good-quality, full-fat coconut milk with minimal additives. Ideally just coconut and water. It gives you the best texture and the cleanest flavour. You’ll still get that subtle coconut undertone, but it blends beautifully into most desserts without overpowering them.
The sugar not only sweetens but also helps create that classic condensed texture as it reduces. By the time it’s finished simmering, you’re left with a smooth, rich mixture that thickens even more as it cools.
What Can You Use It For?
This is where things get fun.
Once you have a jar of this in your fridge, it opens the door to so many possibilities! Drizzling it over desserts, stirring it into coffee, using it in baking, or adding it to frozen treats for that extra creamy finish.
But if I’m being honest, I have a favourite use coming up…
I’ve been working on a recipe that I’m really excited to share soon: a creamsicle-inspired slushie. Think bright citrus flavour paired with that creamy, dreamy sweetness that makes those classic treats so nostalgic.
And this condensed milk? It’s the key to making it work.
It adds that smooth, velvety texture and just the right amount of sweetness to balance everything out. It’s one of those ingredients that quietly transforms a recipe from good to really good.
So if you’re looking for a reason to try making your own dairy-free condensed milk, consider this your nudge. Make a batch, keep it in the fridge, and you’ll be ready when that creamsicle slushie recipe drops.
Dairy Free and Vegan Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 13.6 oz (405ml) can coconut milk
- ⅓ cup sugar
Instructions
- To a small sauce pan, add the canned coconut milk and sugar. Stir together well and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, immediately reduce to a simmer. Let simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes.
- The condensed milk is done when has reduced in volume to about half. Once done, remove from heat and let cool. The milk will thicken as it cools.
- Use once cooled or pour into an air tight container and store in the fridge for about a week.
Notes
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[…] classic flavours. It just means finding a new way to get there. And once I started making my own vegan condensed milk, this recipe came together almost […]