Gather ingredients: 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
Gather equipment: saucepan, whisk or spatula, measuring cups/spoons, can opener (if using a can), heat-safe container (if transferring), thermometer (optional)
Choose method:
Shortcut (use canned sweetened condensed milk)
Homemade (cook milk + sugar)
Homemade method (stovetop):
Combine 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk and 1 1/4 cups (250 g) granulated sugar in a saucepan
Add 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter (optional for richness)
Heat over medium-low, stirring until sugar dissolves
Simmer gently, stirring frequently, until reduced to about 1 cup (240 ml) and thickened (about 45–75 minutes)
Stir in 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional; helps reduce graininess)
If using, add 1 teaspoon vanilla (optional) after thickening
Remove from heat and cool to thicken further
Transfer to a jar/container and refrigerate
Homemade method (oven, optional):
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
Mix 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk and 1 1/4 cups (250 g) sugar in an oven-safe dish
Cover loosely with foil
Bake 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring every 20–25 minutes
Uncover for final 10–15 minutes to thicken
Cool, then refrigerate
Storage:
Refrigerate in a sealed container up to 1–2 weeks
Stir before using if separated
Yield target:
Approximately 1 cup (240 ml) condensed milk per batch