A delicious and healthy alternative to traditional condensed milk, perfect for those watching their sugar intake.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or other unsweetened plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol (or another sugar-free sweetener of your choice, adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon butter or vegan butter (optional, for richness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
- Pinch of salt (optional, to enhance sweetness)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, pour the almond milk, powdered erythritol, butter (if using), and salt (if using).
- Simmer and Reduce: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce Volume: Continue to simmer the mixture, stirring frequently, until it has reduced to about half its original volume. This process can take approximately 30-45 minutes. The mixture will thicken as it reduces.
- Check Consistency: The condensed milk is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a trail when you run your finger through it.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract (if using).
- Cool and Store: Allow the condensed milk to cool completely. It will thicken further as it cools.
- Storage: Transfer the sugar-free condensed milk to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week.
Tips and Notes:
- Sweetener Adjustment: The amount of sweetener can be adjusted to your preference. Start with the recommended amount and add more if needed.
- Powdered Sweetener: Powdered erythritol or other powdered sweeteners dissolve more easily than granulated versions.
- Stirring: Frequent stirring is essential to prevent the milk from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Consistency: The consistency will thicken as it cools, so don’t over-reduce it while it’s hot.
- Other Milks: other unsweetened nut milks can be used, like cashew or soy.
- Thickening agents: a very small amount of xanthan gum can be added to the mixture, if you would like a thicker result.