Yes, Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk Is Readily Available
For those following a vegan, dairy-free, or lactose-intolerant diet, the search for a creamy, thick sweetened condensed milk alternative is over. What was once a niche product is now accessible in many supermarkets and health food stores. These plant-based versions are made by simmering milk from sources like coconuts, oats, and soy with a sweetener until it reaches the desired syrupy consistency. Whether you're making fudge, a vegan tres leches cake, or a creamy dessert, there's a non-dairy option to suit your needs.
Popular Store-Bought Non-Dairy Brands
The market for plant-based alternatives has expanded significantly, offering several commercial options for sweetened condensed milk. These brands have perfected recipes for consistency and flavor, often using thickeners to ensure a reliable product.
- Nature's Charm: A market leader, Nature's Charm offers sweetened condensed coconut milk and oat milk. Their coconut version is known for its rich texture, while the oat milk offers a more neutral flavor profile.
- Carnation (Nestlé): The company synonymous with condensed milk has entered the plant-based market with its own vegan condensed milk, made from a blend of oat and rice flour.
- Let's Do Organic: This brand provides a simple, two-ingredient sweetened condensed coconut milk, combining organic coconut milk and organic cane sugar for a clean label option.
- Jus' Amazin: An Indian brand that has created a sweetened condensed almond milk alternative, made with just almonds and jaggery.
How to Make Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk at Home
Making your own dairy-free condensed milk is a cost-effective and simple process. It allows you to control the ingredients and flavor, and the basic method is consistent across different plant-based milks: reduce the milk with a sweetener over heat until it thickens.
Sweetened Condensed Coconut Milk
- Ingredients: One 14-ounce can of full-fat coconut milk and 1/3 to 3/4 cup of sugar (or preferred sweetener).
- Instructions: Combine coconut milk and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. It will thicken as it cools.
Sweetened Condensed Oat Milk
- Ingredients: 2 cups of oat milk, 3/4 cup of sugar, and an optional thickening agent like cornstarch or xanthan gum.
- Instructions: Heat milk and sugar, simmer for 30–45 minutes until reduced by half and slightly thickened. Adding a thickener can expedite the process.
Sweetened Condensed Soy Milk
- Ingredients: 3 cups of soy milk and 1/2 cup of sugar.
- Instructions: Combine in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by two-thirds to one cup.
Comparison Table: Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk Types
| Feature | Coconut Condensed Milk | Oat Condensed Milk | Soy Condensed Milk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Rich, distinct coconut taste | Milder, more neutral flavor | Neutral with a slight nutty undertone |
| Consistency | Creamy and thick naturally due to high fat content | Can be thinner; often uses a thickening agent | Naturally thickens well upon reduction |
| Best For | Fudge, key lime pie, anything where coconut flavor is welcome | Coffee, tres leches cake, less flavor-sensitive baking | Fudge, caramel sauces, desserts where a neutral base is desired |
| Common Issue | May have a slightly grainy texture or separate | Can become too starchy if over-thickened | Can curdle if heated too quickly |
How to Use Non-Dairy Sweetened Condensed Milk
These plant-based alternatives are versatile in the kitchen. For many recipes, they can be substituted cup-for-cup with traditional sweetened condensed milk, though some adjustments might be needed for flavor or consistency. They are perfect for creating rich, creamy desserts without dairy.
- Vegan Tres Leches Cake: Use a combination of non-dairy milks, including condensed coconut or oat milk, for a decadent cake soak.
- Dairy-Free Fudge: Combine melted dairy-free chocolate with condensed coconut milk for a simple, quick fudge.
- Creamy Coffee and Tea: Stir a spoonful into hot or iced beverages for a rich, sweet, and creamy addition.
- Vegan Key Lime Pie: Use sweetened condensed coconut milk as a rich, creamy base for the filling, pairing it with lime juice.
- Caramel Sauce (Dulce de Leche): Some non-dairy condensed milk can be simmered or pressure-cooked to create a dairy-free caramel sauce, though this often works best with coconut milk due to its fat content.
Conclusion
The existence of non-dairy sweetened condensed milk is a testament to the innovation within the plant-based food industry. Whether you opt for a readily available commercial product or prefer to craft your own from scratch using coconut, oat, or soy milk, a satisfying dairy-free alternative is at your fingertips. By understanding the unique characteristics of each base, you can confidently create delicious vegan treats without compromising on flavor or texture. From luscious fudge to creamy coffee, the possibilities are endless for those seeking a dairy-free indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is non-dairy sweetened condensed milk safe for people with lactose intolerance?
Yes, as it is made from plant-based ingredients and contains no lactose, it is completely safe for those with lactose intolerance.
Can I use non-dairy condensed milk in any recipe that calls for regular condensed milk?
In most cases, yes. However, since the flavor and consistency can vary depending on the plant-based milk used, you may need minor recipe adjustments. The best results often come from recipes specifically developed for vegan alternatives or after testing the specific product.
What does non-dairy sweetened condensed milk taste like?
The taste depends on the base. Coconut versions have a distinct coconut flavor, while oat and soy versions are more neutral in taste.
Where can I buy store-bought non-dairy sweetened condensed milk?
You can typically find it in the baking aisle, international foods section, or health food aisle of major supermarkets and health food stores. It is also widely available from online retailers.
What is the shelf life of homemade non-dairy condensed milk?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade versions typically last for up to one to two weeks, depending on the base and preparation method.
Can I make a sugar-free version of non-dairy sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, by substituting the sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Some recipes may require an additional thickener to achieve the right consistency.
Why does my homemade non-dairy condensed milk separate?
Separation is common in coconut-based versions, especially when refrigerated, due to the high fat content. Simply warm and stir it to recombine before use.
Is coconut cream the same as sweetened condensed coconut milk?
No. Coconut cream is a high-fat, unsweetened product, while sweetened condensed coconut milk is a concentrated and sweetened mixture of coconut milk and sugar.
Can I use low-fat plant-based milk to make a homemade version?
Using a low-fat plant-based milk will make it more difficult to achieve the proper thick consistency. For best results, use full-fat or high-fat plant-based milks, especially for coconut versions.
Can I use non-dairy condensed milk in no-bake desserts?
Yes, it works beautifully in no-bake recipes like pies, ice creams, and fillings. Always ensure the product has cooled and thickened completely before adding it to your dessert.
