How to Make Condensed Coconut Milk at Home

Posted on March 11 2024, By: Maddie Johnson

How to Make Condensed Coconut Milk at Home

Condensed coconut milk is a delightful addition to many recipes, lending a rich and creamy texture with a tropical twist. Whether you're a fan of coconut-based desserts or looking to experiment with new flavors in your cooking, making condensed coconut milk at home is a surprisingly simple and rewarding process. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the steps to create your own condensed coconut milk, opening up a world of possibilities for your culinary adventures!

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Select High-Quality Coconut Milk: Begin with high-quality canned coconut milk. Check the ingredient list to ensure it contains minimal additives, and opt for full-fat coconut milk for a richer result! 

  2. Combine Coconut Milk and Sugar: In a saucepan, pour the two cans of coconut milk and add the sugar. Stir well to combine. The sugar is essential for both sweetness and thickening, giving your condensed coconut milk its signature texture.

  3. Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir frequently to prevent the sugar from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

  4. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Allow the coconut milk to reduce by about half. This process typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the desired thickness.

  5. Add Vanilla Extract (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the condensed coconut milk. Stir well to incorporate the vanilla and let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.

  6. Check Consistency: To check the consistency, dip a spoon into the mixture. The condensed coconut milk should coat the back of the spoon, indicating that it has thickened appropriately.

  7. Cool and Store: Once the condensed coconut milk has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Transfer it to a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Usage Tips:

  • Use condensed coconut milk as a substitute for traditional sweetened condensed milk in recipes.
  • Drizzle it over desserts like ice cream, pancakes, or waffles for a tropical twist.
  • Experiment with adding condensed coconut milk to your coffee or tea for a creamy and sweet flavor.
  • Store the condensed coconut milk in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Making condensed coconut milk at home is a rewarding endeavor that opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you're crafting indulgent desserts or enhancing your morning coffee, this homemade alternative provides a tropical twist to your favorite recipes. Give it a try and elevate your cooking with the creamy goodness of condensed coconut milk!