Do They Make Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk?

The global market for plant-based condensed milk is growing, with research projecting the sector will reach a significant valuation in the coming years. This rapid expansion confirms that yes, they do make non-dairy sweetened condensed milk, offering a crucial vegan alternative for countless recipes.

Quick Summary

Dairy-free sweetened condensed milk is available commercially from various brands or can be easily made at home using plant-based milks. These alternatives, typically derived from coconut, oat, or soy, function as a direct substitute for traditional condensed milk in desserts and beverages. The end product's flavor and richness can vary depending on the base ingredient.

Key Points

• Availability: Non-dairy sweetened condensed milk is widely available both from store-bought brands and through simple homemade recipes using plant-based milks.

• Base Ingredients: Common plant-based milks for alternatives include coconut (often full-fat canned), oat, almond, and soy, which are simmered with sugar to achieve the right consistency.

• Convenience: Commercial options from brands like Nature's Charm and Carnation offer a ready-to-use product, while DIY recipes provide a cost-effective and customizable approach.

• Versatility: The dairy-free version can be used as a 1:1 substitute in classic recipes for fudge, ice cream, cakes, and sauces.

• Flavor Profile: The final flavor can range from subtly tropical (with coconut base) to a more neutral, rich taste depending on the specific plant milk used.

Yes, Delicious Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk Exists

For those following a vegan diet, managing a dairy allergy, or simply looking to expand their culinary horizons, the question of a non-dairy sweetened condensed milk is common. The answer is a resounding yes. The market has embraced the demand for plant-based options, and whether you prefer the convenience of a store-bought can or the satisfaction of a homemade batch, a variety of excellent substitutes are readily available. These alternatives replicate the signature creamy, thick, and sweet qualities of traditional condensed milk, making them suitable for a wide range of baking and beverage applications.

Store-Bought Non-Dairy Options

An increasing number of brands now offer pre-made non-dairy sweetened condensed milk, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. These products typically use plant-based milks as their base and are formulated to have a similar consistency and sweetness to the dairy version. Many can be found in natural food stores or online.

• Nature's Charm: A brand frequently cited for its range of plant-based products, Nature's Charm offers sweetened condensed coconut milk, sweetened condensed oat milk, and even sugar-free options. Their condensed coconut milk was one of the first commercially available vegan versions.
• Carnation Vegan Condensed Milk: A legacy brand in the condensed milk space, Carnation (owned by Nestlé) introduced its own vegan version using oat and rice flour in 2020. It is certified by The Vegan Society and works as a 1:1 substitute in most recipes.
• Let's Do Organic: This brand offers a simple and clean-label sweetened condensed coconut milk made with only organic coconut milk and organic cane sugar.
• Jus' Amazin: An Indian brand that created what is considered the world's first condensed almond milk, made from almonds and jaggery.

How to Make Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk at Home

Creating your own version at home gives you control over the ingredients, sweetness, and base flavor. It's a straightforward process that typically involves simmering a plant-based milk with a sweetener until it reduces and thickens.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk or 2 cups of a different plant-based milk (e.g., soy, oat, or almond)
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup granulated sugar or other sweetener (like maple syrup)
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Combine the plant-based milk, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking frequently to dissolve the sugar and prevent scorching.
3. Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30–45 minutes. The goal is to reduce the volume by about half and achieve a thickened, syrupy consistency.
4. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
5. Let it cool completely. It will continue to thicken as it chills in the refrigerator.

Comparison of Non-Dairy Condensed Milks

Feature	Homemade Coconut Condensed Milk	Store-Bought Oat Condensed Milk	Store-Bought Almond Condensed Milk
Base	Full-fat canned coconut milk	Oat and rice flours	Almonds and jaggery
Flavor Profile	Subtly tropical, rich	Neutral, slightly sweet	Mild, nutty
Consistency	Thick and creamy after chilling	Smooth and fudgy	Creamy, can be rich in nutrients
Cost	Generally inexpensive	Varies by brand, typically mid-range	Varies by brand, can be premium
Versatility	Excellent for most desserts, adds a hint of coconut flavor	Versatile, good neutral base for many recipes	Suited for Indian desserts and other sweet treats
Process	Requires simmering and cooling time	Ready to use straight from the can	Ready to use straight from the can
Allergens	Coconut	Oat	Almond

Uses for Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk

Non-dairy sweetened condensed milk can be used in any recipe that calls for the traditional version, with fantastic results. The versatility is what makes it a prized ingredient for dairy-free cooking. Here are just a few ideas:

• Vegan Fudge: Combine with dairy-free chocolate and nuts for a rich, creamy confection.
• Tres Leches Cake: Use a mixture of vegan condensed milk, coconut milk, and almond milk to create a decadent, dairy-free version of this classic cake.
• Creamy Coffee & Tea: Stir a spoonful into your hot or iced beverages for a sweet, creamy flavor.
• Ice Cream Base: It is a perfect base for no-churn vegan ice cream recipes.
• Caramel Sauce (Dulce de Leche): Slowly heating vegan condensed milk can produce a delicious caramel sauce.
• Magic Bars: Create layered dessert bars with a non-dairy version of the classic gooey binding layer.

Conclusion

Yes, the market offers a wide array of options for non-dairy sweetened condensed milk, eliminating any barriers for those with dietary restrictions or ethical preferences. Whether you opt for a high-quality, pre-made version from brands like Nature's Charm or Carnation, or you choose to craft a simple, two-ingredient version at home with coconut or oat milk, you can achieve the rich, creamy results needed for all your favorite desserts. The availability and simplicity of these alternatives prove that going dairy-free no longer means sacrificing flavor or texture in classic recipes.

More vegan resources

For more information on plant-based cooking and how to adapt your favorite recipes, visit the popular vegan food blog, Vegan in the Freezer.

FAQs About Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk

• question: What is non-dairy sweetened condensed milk made from?
  • answer: It is made by simmering down plant-based milks, such as coconut, oat, almond, or soy, with a sweetener like sugar until it thickens and reduces significantly.
• question: Can I substitute vegan condensed milk 1:1 for regular condensed milk?
  • answer: Yes, most store-bought and homemade versions can be used as a 1:1 replacement in recipes, though some variation in flavor and richness may occur depending on the base milk used.
• question: Will non-dairy condensed milk taste exactly the same as the dairy version?
  • answer: While it replicates the sweetness and texture, the flavor will have a subtle profile of its plant-based origin, such as a hint of coconut.
• question: Where can I buy non-dairy sweetened condensed milk?
  • answer: Many brands are available at health food stores, online retailers, and increasingly in the baking or health-conscious sections of major grocery stores.
• question: Is it easy to make my own vegan condensed milk?
  • answer: Yes, making it at home is quite easy and only requires two main ingredients and about 30–45 minutes of simmering.
• question: What types of recipes can I use vegan condensed milk in?
  • answer: It works well in a wide variety of desserts, including fudge, magic bars, ice cream, caramel sauce, tres leches cake, and as a sweetener for coffee or tea.
• question: How should I store homemade non-dairy condensed milk?
  • answer: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It will thicken further as it cools.
• question: What is the difference between evaporated and condensed milk?
  • answer: Evaporated milk is simply milk that has been cooked to remove water and is unsweetened, while sweetened condensed milk has added sugar for sweetness and a thick, syrupy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is non-dairy sweetened condensed milk made from?

It is made by simmering down plant-based milks, such as coconut, oat, almond, or soy, with a sweetener like sugar until it thickens and reduces significantly.

Can I substitute vegan condensed milk 1:1 for regular condensed milk?

Yes, most store-bought and homemade versions can be used as a 1:1 replacement in recipes, though some variation in flavor and richness may occur depending on the base milk used.

Will non-dairy condensed milk taste exactly the same as the dairy version?

While it replicates the sweetness and texture, the flavor will have a subtle profile of its plant-based origin, such as a hint of coconut.

Where can I buy non-dairy sweetened condensed milk?

Many brands are available at health food stores, online retailers, and increasingly in the baking or health-conscious sections of major grocery stores.

Is it easy to make my own vegan condensed milk?

Yes, making it at home is quite easy and only requires two main ingredients and about 30–45 minutes of simmering.

What types of recipes can I use vegan condensed milk in?

It works well in a wide variety of desserts, including fudge, magic bars, ice cream, caramel sauce, tres leches cake, and as a sweetener for coffee or tea.

How should I store homemade non-dairy condensed milk?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It will thicken further as it cools.

What is the difference between evaporated and condensed milk?

Evaporated milk is simply milk that has been cooked to remove water and is unsweetened, while sweetened condensed milk has added sugar for sweetness and a thick, syrupy consistency.