Skip to Content

7 Sweetened Condensed Milk Substitutes: Add Extra Flavor

Got a can of sweetened condensed milk in your pantry gathering dust? Happens to us too. No worries, because turns out, there are so many substitutes that add a fantastic twist to your recipes!

We’re about to make your dessert game stronger.

From creamy coconut milk to the richness of heavy cream, each substitute brings its own flair. Share with us as we explore these delightful alternatives.

Remember that one time we ran out of condensed milk and had to improvise? It actually turned out amazing, and now we’re excited to share those secrets with you!

7 Easy Substitutes for Sweetened Condensed Milk

While there’s nothing quite like the classic, sometimes it’s fun to switch things up and try something new. Here are seven substitutes for sweetened condensed milk that will add a unique flavor profile to your desserts:

1 – Evaporated Milk

First, let’s talk evaporated milk. It’s a solid 1:1 substitute for sweetened condensed milk. Use the same amount and you’re good to go. It’s got a similar consistency, so your recipes won’t miss a beat.

The flavor is slightly sweeter than regular milk, which makes it a bit of a game-changer in desserts. The pros? It’s super easy to find and works like a charm. The downside? It might not be as rich or creamy as sweetened condensed milk.

If you’re curious about more ways to use evaporated milk, check out our evaporated milk substitutes guide.

2 – Heavy Cream

Then there’s heavy cream. It’s a game of richness.

Heavy cream steps up the creaminess in your desserts like no other. You can substitute it 1:1 for sweetened condensed milk and get that lusciously thick texture. We’ve tried this in our fudge, pies, and even pancakes, and it’s delightfully rich every time.

It’s a dairy-based option, so it adds that milky goodness we love. The main perk? It’s richer and creamier than many alternatives. However, it can sometimes be too rich, making your dessert feel heavier. Plus, watch out, high in calories!

Curious about more useful swaps? Check our guide on heavy cream substitutes.

3 – Whole Milk and Sugar

Next up, we have whole milk and sugar. Mix it 1:1 with whole milk and add 1/2 to 1/3 cup of sugar, depending on your sweet tooth. It’s super easy and budget-friendly.

You can tweak the sweetness to fit your taste. The best part? It’s cheap and straightforward. On the flip side, it might not be as smooth or creamy as other options. Plus, you’ll need to use extra sugar.

If you want more ideas on using whole milk, check out our whole milk substitutes guide. It’s a great way to expand your recipe game!

4 – Coconut Cream and Maple Syrup

In case you need a swap that’s both dairy-free and bursting with flavor, try coconut cream and maple syrup. Mix 1:1 with coconut cream and add 1/2 to 1/3 cup maple syrup for sweetness. This pair is a hit for its rich, sweet taste and creamy texture.

The cool part? It’s vegan-friendly and offers a unique twist to your desserts. Beware, it does have a strong coconut flavor which can be a turn-off for some. Also, you’ll need the extra maple syrup.

Curious for more options? Check out our coconut cream substitutes and maple syrup substitutes guides.

5 – Almond Milk and Honey

For those avoiding dairy and wanting a sweet substitute, almond milk and honey are your new best friends.

Mix a 1:1 ratio of almond milk with 1/2 to 1/3 cup of honey, depending on how sweet you like it. This combo gives you a creamy texture without the dairy.

It’s fantastic for those with allergies or intolerances. Lower in calories than traditional sweetened condensed milk, but it might not be as rich or creamy. You’ll need the extra honey for sweetness.

If you’re curious, check out more on almond milk substitutes and honey substitutes.

6 – Cashew Cream and Agave Nectar

The cool new kid in town? Cashew cream with agave nectar. We mix them 1:1 with 1/2 to 1/3 cup of agave nectar, depending on how much sweetness we crave. This combo is a vegan favorite, hitting that sweet-spot balance between rich creaminess and calorie-consciousness.

Cashew cream brings a smooth and nutty texture, making your desserts feel luxurious without dairy. On the flip side, it packs a distinct nutty flavor, which might not suit everyone. Plus, we need extra agave nectar for that sweet kick.

Curious for more swaps? Check our cashew cream substitutes and agave nectar substitutes.

7 – Honey and Vanilla Extract

Last but not least, honey and vanilla extract! This combo is our go-to for a sweet and smooth substitute.

We mix it 1:1 with honey and add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, depending on how intense we want the vanilla flavor. Honey brings a natural sweetness while the vanilla extract adds a delightful aroma.

Pros? It’s lower in calories and super easy to whip up. Cons? It might lack the creamy richness of other options and needs extra vanilla extract for the right flavor.

For more sweet tips, check out our honey substitutes and vanilla extract substitutes.

Index