Condensed milk, also known as sweetened condensed milk, is a thick, creamy, and ultra-delicious milk product that’s used as an ingredient in different dishes all across the world. It’s used in both savory and sweet dishes, and of course, our belovedVietnamese iced coffee(cà phê sữa đá) but the best way to enjoy it is to scoop a spoonful straight from the can - don’t yuck our yum!
Here’s everything you need to know about condensed milk, from how it’s made, its history, and the best way to enjoy it.
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What is Condensed Milk and How is it Made?
Condensed milk is simply cow’s milk from which 60% of its water content has been removed. Once removed, sugar is then added, which acts as a preservative, extending the shelf life of the milk. The mixture is then heated further until the water content is reduced to around 25%, resulting in a thick, creamy consistency.
The heating process gives condensed milk a caramel-like flavor, making it a wonderful ingredient to add to desserts and baked goods. Once the heating process is complete, what remains is a thick, smooth milk product that has a long shelf life if remained unopened – which won’t be the case, trust us.
Condensed Milk vs Evaporated Milk
While both condensed milk and evaporated milk are quite similar, there are a couple of differences between the two. Condensed milk is sweetened with sugar, while evaporated milk remains unsweetened and has a more neutral flavor. Also, evaporated milk is slightly thinner and since it’s not as sweet, you cannot use condensed milk as a replacement for it in recipes.
The History of Condensed Milk
Condensed milk has a long and rich history, in fact, a rendition of it was described by Marco Polo in the 13th century when he was in Mongolia. However, in more “recent” history, condensed milk was invented in 1853 by Gail Borden, an American inventor, as well as by a Frenchman named Nicolas Appert in 1820.
At the time, milk was a perishable commodity, and transportation and storage were difficult. Borden set out to find a way to preserve milk so it'd be easier to store and transport. After several failed attempts, he finally succeeded in creating condensed milk by heating and reducing fresh milk, then adding sugar to preserve it.
Borden's invention proved to be a game-changer, especially for soldiers during the Civil War, who were able to take condensed milk with them into battle. Over time, condensed milk became a staple ingredient in many households.
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Where is Condensed Milk Used?
Condensed milk is used in a variety of recipes such it’s most often in desserts, but it's even added in marinades for meat in savory dishes! It is commonly used to make fudge, caramel, and Asian desserts like Thai mango sticky rice. It is also used in ice cream, pudding, and cheesecake recipes.
This milk product is also a popular ingredient to add to several beverages across Asian and Latin American cultures. There are several types of Vietnamese coffee that use this milk, as well asThai iced coffee, while in Malaysia it’s added to their iced tea. Brazilians add this delicious sweet milk to their lemonade which offsets the tangy, bitter flavor of lime.
Condensed Milk in Vietnam
Condensed milk has a unique history in Vietnam. Coffee was introduced to the country by the French colonists during the 19th century, and the French also brought condensed milk to Vietnam as they were unable to transport fresh milk. Over time, it was incorporated into local dishes and drinks, adding the vibrancy oftraditional Vietnamese food.
Whether you’re eating a spoonful straight from the can or adding it to your marinades, condensed milk is delicious any way you have it. However, we’re a bit biased here, and we think it’s best enjoyed when paired with strong robusta coffee and made into Vietnamese iced coffee. Don’t believe us? Just snag a case of SANG and see for yourself!
FAQs
Condensed milk is evaporated milk that typically has sweetener added, so much so that the terms 'condensed milk' and 'sweetened condensed milk' are used interchangeably. Sugar is added before canning; condensed milk is very sweet and contains about 40 to 45 percent sugar.
How unhealthy is condensed milk? ›
Sweetened condensed milk includes a lot of calories, but it also has a lot of saturated fat, which is dangerous for people with diabetes and heart issues. According to studies, eating a diet high in saturated fats can raise insulin and Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels.
What is special about condensed milk? ›
It provides a concentrated creaminess and sweet, milky flavor to whatever you put it in, without all the excess moisture that you get from regular old milk. That makes it perfect for creamy things that you want to set to a near-solid, like key lime pie, fudge, frozen margarita pie, or caramel.
Why is condensed milk not advisable? ›
Downsides: Higher Sugar Content. Condensed milk is significantly higher in sugar than granulated sugar, with around 60g per 100g compared to 100g per 100g for sugar. This can be detrimental for those watching their sugar intake or managing conditions like diabetes.
What is the difference between evaporated milk and condensed milk? ›
Condensed milk is much thicker than evaporated milk, since it contains less water and much more sugar than evaporated milk. A can of evaporated milk has about the same consistency as half-and-half.
Is condensed milk worse than sugar? ›
Using sweetened condensed milk to boost calorie content may be more beneficial than using sugar alone since the product also provides extra protein, fat and some bone-healthy minerals like calcium and phosphorus. You can store sweetened condensed milk for a long time without refrigeration.
Is condensed milk bad for your heart? ›
Because condensed milk is more concentrated than the same volume of regular milk, it contains more lactose. cardiovascular issues are more likely to occur. It can also make insulin resistance worse, which inhibits the body from metabolizing the sugar that leads to type 2 diabetes.
Why would someone drink condensed milk? ›
Condensed milk is considered the most useful sweetness, because it contains a lot of calcium and other useful minerals and vitamins, but unlike other sweet foods (cakes, marmalade, sweets and other confectionery), it does not contain yeast and food additives.
Why do people eat condensed milk? ›
The thick syrup contributes both the sweetness of sugar and the benefits of milk without adding too much liquid since condensing milk removes moisture and concentrates the natural sugars. These sugars then take on toasty notes as they warm up and bake in the dessert.
What was condensed milk originally used for? ›
Canned condensed milk was first invented in the 1850s by an American newspaper publisher and inventor named Gail Borden. At the time, refrigeration was nearly nonexistent. An alternative to fresh milk was needed—especially for parents looking for safe ways to feed their infants.
Can I drink sweetened condensed milk? It is a ready-to-use product so it may be consumed without any other preparation. You can add it to everyday items like in your coffee, on toast with cinnamon, on fruit or yogurt, and in any way you see fit.
Why is condensed milk so yummy? ›
The heating process gives condensed milk a caramel-like flavor, making it a wonderful ingredient to add to desserts and baked goods. Once the heating process is complete, what remains is a thick, smooth milk product that has a long shelf life if remained unopened – which won't be the case, trust us.
How long is condensed milk good for after opening? ›
Once you open a can of condensed milk, plan to use it within a week for optimal freshness. However, it'll likely stay good for 2-3 weeks in the fridge.
What can I use condensed milk for? ›
Condensed milk recipes
- How to make fudge. A star rating of 3.8 out of 5. ...
- Rice pudding ice cream. A star rating of 5 out of 5. ...
- Quick & easy tiramisu. A star rating of 4.5 out of 5. ...
- Tres leches cake (milk cake) ...
- Gingerbread tres leches cake. ...
- No-churn ice cream. ...
- Crumbly fudge. ...
- Peanut butter-stuffed French toast.
If dairy isn't an issue, heavy cream can substitute for condensed milk. But if you're avoiding dairy, the only thing that can sometimes substitute for condensed milk “as is” is full-fat coconut milk. However, full-fat coconut milk may not have the condensed milk consistency you're going for.
What is carnation condensed milk used for? ›
Sweet and deliciously creamy, CARNATION Sweetened Condensed Milk is made from all natural ingredients. Made with just two ingredients, fresh whole milk and natural sugar, CARNATION Condensed Milk makes it quick and easy to create delicious sweet treats from creamy cheesecakes to millionaires' shortbread.
Does condensed milk cause weight gain? ›
As it is high in calories it may lead to a quick gain in weight. People with lactose intolerance cannot consume sweetened condensed as it is made from cow's milk and this concentrated milk contains more lactose in even small quantities. Some people may not be impressed with its unusual taste as it is way too sweeter.
Is there a healthy substitute for condensed milk? ›
Many vegan bakers agree that the easiest and tastiest dairy-free alternative to condensed milk is made with coconut milk. Since thickness is part of what you're looking for, it's helpful that full-fat coconut milk is already quite dense. You'll need the following ingredients: One can of full-fat coconut milk.
How much condensed milk can I drink? ›
Know the measure! Many of us are accustomed to eating condensed milk with large spoons and in large quantities, while the daily rate of consumption of condensed milk is only 2 tablespoons! There is a lot of sugar in condensed milk, and, naturally, it is very high in calories.
Is condensed milk ultra-processed? ›
Other examples of ultra-processed food include crisps, Bombay mix, lokum/ Turkish delight, many breakfast cereals, biscuits, ice- cream, fizzy and juice drinks (even the zero calorie versions), supplement drinks like Nurishment and condensed milk.
