Have you ever tried Vietnamese coffee? Well if you haven’t, it’s essentially brewed coffee with sweetened condensed milk. It’s very simple yet incredibly delicious. Definitely not a very forgiving drink (especially if you’re watching the old waistline). But never the less, it is delicious. So I thought maybe I should give this drink a healthier vibe. I really want a dairy-free option, so I decided to write a recipe!
Sweetened Condensed milk is also a staple for holiday baking (or baking in general). Whether you’re making a custard, a cake or a pie. Condensed milk gives your recipes such a rich and indulgent flavor. This spiced sweetened condensed milk is exactly what you need for your vegan or paleo baking during the holiday seasons.
Now, me being a coffee whore, this deliciousness usually ends up in my coffee creations. But, if baking is a part of your journey, you will definitely love this recipe!
Now, the most important thing about this recipe is the coconut milk. So you want to make sure you are using full-fat, great quality coconut milk (I like the Native Forest coconut milk). Do not use that “low fat”, “fat-free” crap. You just won’t be able to get the same consistency or taste without full-fat coconut milk. And honestly, what is the point of making condensed milk if you are going to use “fat-free” shit right?
You can use other dairy-free milk options for this recipe (I’ve seen others have success with that). But, I have not tried those methods. So proceed with caution or google that shit.
WHAT SWEETENER TO USE TO MAKE Sweetened Condensed Milk
Of course this being “sweetened” condensed milk, we need a sweetener. When testing this recipe, I used two different sweetener options. Coconut sugar and maple syrup. Personally, I prefer the maple syrup because of its rich molasses-like vibe. It gives the condensed milk a really decadent flavor and it also pairs very well with the coconut milk. But, it is all up to you. If you prefer regular or coconut sugar, go for it. The recipe will be incredibly delicious either way.
So, even if you’re like me and NOT a baker, having sweetened condensed milk on hand can be a game changer. Your coffee creations will thank you! Or, you can drizzle this bad boy over grilled fruits or warm tarts to take dessert to the next level.
Let’s get cooking
Let’s get cooking
Spiced Sweetened Condensed Milk (Dairy-Free)
Coconut milk and maple syrup simmered until thickened to make a rich and decadent dairy-free alternative to sweetened condensed milk. Use it in baked goods or delicious drinks.
Coconut milk and maple syrup simmered until thickened to make a rich and decadent dairy-free alternative to sweetened condensed milk. Use it in baked goods or delicious drinks.
Prep Time:5 mins
Cook Time:40 mins
Total Time:45 mins
Yields:1 cup
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Ingredients
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1
13.5-ounce can of full-fat coconut milk
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1/2
cup grade A maple syrup, or sweetener of choice (*SEE NOTES)
-
1/4
tsp. ground nutmeg
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1
cinnamon stick or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- To begin, place a deep saucepan over medium heat. Shake up the can of coconut milk and pour it into the pan along with the maple syrup nutmeg and cinnamon stick. Stir to combine. Once the mixture starts to simmer, lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer (using a whisk to frequently stir the mixture) until it is thickened and has reduced to about half, about 40-45 minutes. Let the mixture cool completely before using it in drinks or recipes.
- Your sweetened condensed will last in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in a glass jar with an airtight lid. Make sure you use a clean spoon each time you dip into it.
Notes
- *You will notice the color of your condensed milk will be a little darker than pictured. That is completely Normal! In the recipe photos, you will notice the color is a bit lighter. That is mostly because of lighting and editing. But, it’s also due to the fact that I used only 1/4 cup of maple syrup for the batch I made when I shot these photos. Whenever I make this, I prefer it a little less sweet. But, as stated on the recipe card, using 1/2 cup of maple syrup (or any sweetener of your choice) to 1 can of coconut milk, will result in a sweeter, “more like the real thing”, condensed milk. Especially if you’re using this in baked goods, I highly recommend using 1/2 cup of maple syrup to 1 can of coconut milk.
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