Plant-based Condensed Milk

If you’re looking for a quick dairy-free substitute for sweetened condensed milk, this homemade vegan condensed milk is the perfect solution. It’s thick, creamy, naturally plant-based, and made with just two simple pantry ingredients.

Traditional condensed milk is made by slowly simmering milk and sugar until it reduces into a rich syrup. This vegan version works the same way, using full-fat coconut milk to create a naturally creamy texture without dairy.

It’s perfect for vegan baking, desserts, coffee drinks, caramel sauces, and fudge recipes.

Best of all, it takes less than an hour to make and stores well in the refrigerator for whenever you need a dairy-free sweetener.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 🌱

• Only 2 ingredients

• Completely vegan and dairy-free

• Naturally gluten-free

• Thick, creamy texture

• Perfect for baking and desserts

• Budget-friendly alternative to store-bought vegan condensed milk

Ingredients

Base Recipe

• 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk

• ⅓ to ½ cup granulated sugar

Optional Flavor Additions

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

How to Make Vegan Condensed Milk

1. Combine the Ingredients

Pour the coconut milk and sugar into a small saucepan. Stir well until the sugar begins to dissolve.

2. Heat the Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

3. Reduce the Liquid

Lower the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for 40–50 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The liquid will slowly reduce and thicken as water evaporates.

4. Cool and Thicken

Remove from heat once the mixture has reduced by about half. Let it cool completely. It will thicken further as it cools.

5. Store

Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container and store in the refrigerator.

Expert Tips for the Best Vegan Condensed Milk

⭐ Use full-fat coconut milk

Low-fat or carton coconut milk will not thicken properly.

⭐ Simmer gently

A strong boil can cause the mixture to separate.

⭐ Stir occasionally

This prevents the sugar from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

⭐ Adjust sweetness

Use more or less sugar depending on how sweet you want the final result.

Flavor Variations

You can easily customize the flavor:

Vanilla condensed milk

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract after cooking.

Salted condensed milk

Add a small pinch of sea salt.

Caramel-style version

Simmer slightly longer for a deeper golden color and richer flavor.

How to Use Vegan Condensed Milk

This dairy-free condensed milk works in many recipes:

• Vegan fudge

• Dairy-free caramel sauce

• Coffee or iced lattes

• Vegan key lime pie

• No-churn vegan ice cream

• Dessert bars and cheesecakes

• Sweet sauces and drizzles

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Storage Tips

Refrigerator:

Store in a sealed jar for up to 1–2 weeks.

Freezer:

Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir before using.

If it becomes too thick after chilling, stir in 1–2 teaspoons of warm plant milk.

Plant-Based Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

Serving size: 2 tablespoons

Servings per batch:~10

Nutrient Amount:

Calories 95 cal

Fat 6g

Carbohydrates 10g

Sugar 9g

Protein1g

Fiber 0 g

Sodium 8mg

Nutrition will vary depending on the sugar amount used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vegan condensed milk the same as coconut cream?

No. Coconut cream is thicker and unsweetened, while condensed milk is sweetened and reduced by cooking.

Can I make this without coconut?

Yes. You can use other plant milks like oat milk or soy milk, but they may require longer simmering to thicken.

Why did my condensed milk not thicken?

Common reasons include:

• Using low-fat coconut milk

• Not simmering long enough

• Cooking at too high heat

Does it taste like coconut?

There is a mild coconut flavor, but it becomes less noticeable in desserts and baked recipes.

Sweet or salty treats?

• Sweet!
• Salty!
• Sweet & Salty!

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