If you ever needed sweetened condensed milk and didn’t have a can in the pantry, this old-fashion solution has you covered. This homemade sweetened condensed milk recipe comes from a 1978 cookbook and uses powdered milk to create simple, budget-friendly substitute that actually works.

It might sound a little unusual at first, but that’s exactly the kind of “weird but works” recipe that’s been used for years. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make a thick, rich texture without needing hours of simmering. Perfect for baking, desserts, and those moments when you’re out of a can.

Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

A quick and budget-friendly pantry version of sweetened condensed milk made with powdered milk. No cans needed—perfect for baking, desserts, and emergency substitutes.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1 cup water
2 cups sugar
¼ cup butter
4 cups instant powdered milk
1 tsp vanilla

Method

In a saucepan, heat water and sugar until fully dissolved.
Pour the mixture into a blender
Add butter and blend until melted and combined.
Slowly add powdered milk while blending until smooth and thick. Add vanilla.
Use immediately or store in the refrigerator.

Notes

Yield: About 3½ cups (equivalent to ~2 cans)

Can be used as a 1:1 substitute for canned sweetened condensed milk.
For a half batch (about 1 can): simply divide all ingredients in half
Thickens slightly as it cools.

This is one of those simple pantry fixes that can save a recipe when you’re out of a key ingredient.

Just like this homemade sweetened condensed milk, simple pantry recipes like my copycat Manwich sauce can replace store-bought versions in a pinch.

Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk (No Can Needed)