Little did I know that this humble recipe would become one of the most useful staples in my own kitchen. Now, instead of relying on canned versions, I make it in generous batches and freeze portions for later use. It’s richer, fresher, and far more economical than anything you can buy at the store.

In this article, I’ll share the story behind the recipe and show you exactly how to make sweetened condensed milk at home—the Amish-inspired way.

Why Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk?

Before my neighbor showed me her technique, I had no idea how easy it was to make this pantry essential from scratch. But once I tasted it, the differences were obvious:

✔ Richer Flavor

Homemade has a creamy, velvety sweetness that canned versions just can’t match.

✔ Pure, Simple Ingredients

No preservatives, stabilizers, or artificial anything—just milk, sugar, butter, and patience.

✔ Cost-Effective

You can make a large batch for the price of a single store-bought can.

✔ Freezer-Friendly

It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it incredibly convenient.

✔ Perfect for Countless Recipes

Use it in pies, fudge, cookies, cakes, coffee, and more.

The Amish Approach: Slow, Simple, and Reliable

My neighbor explained that Amish cooking focuses on practicality—using what you have, keeping ingredients simple, and avoiding waste. Her recipe takes a traditional stovetop approach that gently reduces milk and sugar until it becomes thick, glossy, and deeply sweet.

It’s the kind of recipe you make while the kitchen fills with warm aromas and life slows down just a little.

Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk: Ingredients

You only need four basic ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but wonderful)

This recipe makes roughly the equivalent of one standard can (14 ounces).

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk (Amish Style)

Please Head On keep on Reading (>) for the instructions:  

Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk: Ingredients

You only need four basic ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but wonderful)

This recipe makes roughly the equivalent of one standard can (14 ounces).

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How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk (Amish Style)

1. Combine and Heat

Pour the milk and sugar into a heavy-bottomed saucepan.

Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until the sugar fully dissolves.

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2. Simmer Slowly

Once dissolved, reduce to low heat.

Let the mixture simmer gently—never boil—for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

It will slowly thicken and reduce by about half.

You’ll know it’s ready when:

• It coats the back of a spoon

• The color turns creamy and pale

• The texture becomes glossy and syrup-like

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3. Add Butter and Vanilla

Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.

For extra richness and aroma, add vanilla.

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4. Cool Completely

Let the mixture cool at room temperature. It will thicken even more as it rests.

Once cooled, it’s ready to use in any recipe that calls for canned condensed milk.

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How to Freeze Your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

This was the part my Amish neighbor insisted on—never make just one batch.

So now, I double or triple the recipe and freeze it.

Here’s how:

✔ Portion Wisely

Spoon into small freezer containers, silicone molds, or even zip-top bags.

✔ Label Clearly

Mark each container with the date and portion size.

✔ Freeze Up to 3 Months

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when needed.

Once thawed, give it a quick stir—it returns to the perfect consistency.

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Ways to Use Your Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

Once you have it on hand, the possibilities are endless:

• Fudge and candy recipes

• Creamy pies

• Sweet breads

• Coffee creamer

• Homemade ice cream

• Caramel sauce

• Cookie bars

• Smoothies

• Tres leches cake

It becomes one of those kitchen staples you never realized you needed until you have it ready all the time.

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Final Thoughts

It’s amazing how a simple recipe shared by a neighbor can become such an essential part of everyday cooking. Making your own sweetened condensed milk is easy, cost-effective, and incredibly rewarding—plus it brings a touch of homemade comfort to any dish you add it to.

Now, thanks to my Amish neighbor’s wisdom, I keep my freezer stocked with small containers of this creamy, homemade goodness. Whenever a recipe calls for it, all I have to do is thaw, stir, and enjoy.