Best Substitute for Sweetened Condensed Milk

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Sweetened condensed milk is a staple in many desserts, adding richness and sweetness to everything from brownies to my Ninja Creami recipes. But what happens when you run out or want a better alternative? In this post you’ll find the best substitutes for sweetened condensed milk. Whether you want to reduce sugar, cut dairy, or simply try something new, these options will help you keep baking without missing a beat.

Sweetened Condensed Milk

It will change a recipe completely if you leave out sweetened condensed milk. Here are a few reasons why you need it:

• It binds ingredients together with its thick consistency.
• Sweetened condensed milk provides creaminess without the excess moisture you get when adding regular milk.
• It cooks without curdling.

Best Sweetened Condensed Milk Substitutes

When substituting, the trick is finding something that replicates these properties while also fitting your dietary needs. I explored several options and noted their nutritional benefits to help you choose the best fit.

1. Heavy cream and sugar

How to Use: Combine 1 cup of heavy cream with ¼ cup of sugar to replace 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Heavy cream has the thickness of sweetened condensed milk without the sweetness. 

Nutritional Benefits: Cream from bovine milk is rich in essential fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, and K), and minerals like calcium, which support bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. Its healthy fats also aid in nutrient absorption and energy production. However, its cholesterol content and potential for rancid off-flavors should be considered.

2. Evaporated milk, sugar, and vanilla

How to Use: I always start by pouring a 15-ounce can of evaporated milk into a saucepan, then stirring in 1 ½ cups of sugar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Over low heat, I let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a smooth, creamy consistency. It takes a little patience, but once it’s ready, it’s rich, sweet, and perfect for a sweetened condensed milk swap.

Nutritional Benefits: Evaporated milk is a nutrient-dense dairy product rich in calcium, providing 66% of the daily requirement for bone health. It also contains protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like A and C, supporting immune function, energy production, and overall well-being.

3. Coconut milk and sugar

How to Use:  I’ve found that full-fat coconut milk and sugar create a rich, creamy substitute for sweetened condensed milk with a hint of coconut flavor. I heat a can of coconut milk with ¼ cup of sugar, whisking until it boils, then let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens. Once cooled, it works perfectly as a one-to-one replacement in recipes where coconut pairs well with the main flavors.

Nutritional Benefits: Coconut milk offers several health benefits due to its nutritional composition. It is naturally low in sugar and lactose-free, making it a suitable dairy alternative, especially for individuals with lactose intolerance. It contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, promoting gut health by supporting beneficial bacteria (prebiotics) and aiding digestion.

Coconut milk also provides essential amino acids, surpassing other nut-based milk in protein quality, although it is not as complete as dairy. Additionally, it is rich in minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, contributing to overall health. While high in saturated fat, contemporary research suggests a balanced approach to its consumption.

“A great substitute is coconut milk! Make sure to use the full-fat coconut milk from the can and drain the water. Because of its high-fat content, it works beautifully. It may not be as sweet as traditional condensed milk but, it makes a delicious addition!”

— Shelby, Fit as a Mama Bear

4. Coconut Cream

How to Use: Use coconut cream as a direct replacement for sweetened condensed milk; add ¼ cup of sugar if a sweeter result is needed.

Nutritional Benefits: Coconut cream, rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and lauric acid, may offer antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory benefits. However, its high saturated fat content and potential impact on cardiovascular health remain subjects of ongoing debate.

5. Powdered milk, water, butter, and sugar

How to Use: I’ve found that mixing powdered milk with less water than usual creates a thick milk that’s similar to sweetened condensed milk. I usually mix ⅓ cup of powdered milk with ⅓ cup of hot water, then add 2 tablespoons of butter and a pinch of sugar for extra richness. It works perfectly as a cup-for-cup substitute for sweetened condensed milk.

Nutritional Benefits: Milk powder is rich in essential nutrients, supporting bone development, digestion, and calcium absorption. It provides high-quality protein, energy, and helps with weight management by reducing hunger. Its easily digestible nutrients benefit both children and adults.

6. Milk, sugar, butter, and vanilla

How to Use: I mixed 1 ½ cups of whole milk with ½ cup of sugar in a saucepan and simmered it while stirring constantly. After about 30 minutes, the mixture was reduced by half, and I added 2 tablespoons of butter and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. The result was a perfect homemade sweetened condensed milk substitute.

Nutritional Benefits: Whole milk is a rich source of essential nutrients like high-quality proteins, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. It’s known for promoting calcium absorption, supporting bone health, and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and hypertension. Milk also contains bioactive compounds like whey proteins and casein, which support immune function, lower blood pressure, and may reduce cancer risk.

7. Almond Milk and Sugar

How to Use: I tried using almond milk as a substitute for sweetened condensed milk, and it worked great. I simmered 2 cups of almond milk over low heat until it reduced by half, then took it off the heat and stirred in ⅔ cup of sugar until it dissolved. After letting it cool, it was ready to use. This simple mix can replace sweetened condensed milk cup for cup!

Nutritional Benefits: Almond milk offers several health benefits, including improved vision, weight loss support, stronger bones, heart health, muscle building, ideal blood pressure maintenance, and proper kidney function. It is low in fat yet rich in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fiber, making it a nutritious, cholesterol-free alternative for those with dairy or soy intolerance.

8. Oat milk, Sugar, Cornstarch, Vanilla, and Butter

How to Use: I recently tried making oat milk as a dairy-free alternative to sweetened condensed milk, and it turned out great! I mixed one cup of oat milk, ½ cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla in a microwave-safe bowl, whisking everything together to remove lumps. Then, I microwaved it for 1 minute at a time until it thickened. To make it extra creamy, I stirred in 1 tablespoon of butter. This simple mixture works perfectly as a cup-for-cup substitute for sweetened condensed milk!

Nutritional Benefits: Oat milk is rich in dietary fiber, especially β-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol and blood sugar. It also contains alkaloids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. While lower in fat and higher in unsaturated fatty acids, oat milk has less protein and lacks some essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin A, making it unsuitable as a complete replacement for dairy, especially for young children.

Final Thoughts

Each substitute brings its own spin to sweetened condensed milk—perfect whether you’re cutting back on sugar, avoiding dairy, or adding a nutritional boost. Your ideal pick depends on your taste preferences and dietary goals. With these options on hand, you’ll always be ready to whip up your favorite recipes—no condensed milk required!