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Gourmet Hacks: 5 Vegan Sweetened Condensed Milk Substitutes

Have you ever wondered what magic ingredient is used to create some of the most delicious desserts, pies, and even savory dishes?

Sweetened condensed milk has long been a dairy staple in many kitchens around the world, but with a rise in vegan lifestyles, it’s wise to consider suitable vegan alternatives.

If you’re looking to make some lips-smacking vegan food, there are various ways you can substitute sweetened condensed milk in your favorite recipes.

Start by exploring some of the five best vegan substitutes for sweetened condensed milk for an unmistakable flavor and texture that will have everyone begging for more.

Can Vegans Have Condensed Milk?

Many people are curious to know if vegans can have condensed milk.

Unfortunately, the answer is no; condensed milk is not considered vegan because it is made from cow’s milk, in combination with sugar and some other ingredients like salt, although recipes vary depending on brands.

When this cow’s milk-based product is heated, it transforms into a thicker, sweetened version of the same liquid that contains more water than evaporated milk, and it has a consistency between that of cream and syrup.

This combination makes it a delectable addition to coffee or desserts like ice creams, pies, or cakes but makes it less suitable for a vegan lifestyle as animal-derived ingredients are not included in their diet.

The 5 Best Vegan Substitutes for Sweetened Condensed Milk

If you’re looking for a vegan alternative to sweetened condensed milk, you’re in luck.

There are many delicious and nutritious options when it comes to baking without cow’s milk.

Here are five of the best vegan substitutes for sweetened condensed milk:

1 – Full Fat Coconut Milk

If you are looking for a delicious and creamy vegan alternative to sweetened condensed milk, full-fat coconut milk is the way to go.

This plant-based dairy substitute is thicker and richer than cow’s milk, with a smooth texture that adds the perfect sweetness to recipes.

Plus, it has much fewer calories than regular condensed milk, meaning your desserts can remain guilt-free.

It has a luscious creamy flavor that pairs beautifully with all sorts of spices – think turmeric, cinnamon, and even cardamom.

As for preparing it for use as a substitute in recipes, just mix equal parts full-fat coconut milk and cornstarch until the mixture thickens to the desired consistency before heating on low heat while stirring continuously.

2 – Almond Milk

Almond milk has become a popular alternative to cow’s milk among vegans, vegetarians, and people with lactose intolerance.

It comes in brands that are shelf-stable as well as refrigerated options with various flavors like plain, vanilla, and chocolate.

Almond milk has a mild nutty flavor, is slightly sweet, and has a creamy texture that makes it an ideal substitute for those with dietary restrictions.

It can also be used as a vegan substitute for ingredients such as sweetened condensed milk due to its sweetness and creaminess.

To do this, combine the almond milk with sugar or honey, warm the combination over low heat then blend until it thickens.

With almond milk being so versatile, it’s no wonder why many love it as part of their diet.

3 – Cashew Cream

Cashew cream is a delicious and simple vegan alternative to the popularly used sweetened condensed milk.

It is made with a base of lightly toasted cashews, blended together with cooked soy milk, sugar and oil to give it a thick and decadent texture.

The combination of taste, creamy mouthfeel and sweetness makes it ideal as a replacement for vegan-unfriendly ingredients in dessert recipes, such as an easy-to-make vegan cheesecake.

Thanks to its health benefits compared to the dairy-based counterpart — being gluten-free, cholesterol free, and lower in fats — cashew cream can now be found in many specialty food stores and online retailers.

Cashew fans can also try their hand at making this versatile ingredient at home; all that’s needed are raw cashews, water, sugar or honey, and salt for seasoning.

Stir everything together, then blend until you achieve a smooth consistency that is perfect for either drizzling or dolloping into your dishes.

4 – Plant-Based Milk Powder

Plant-based milk powder is a great substitute for conventional dairy-based milk for anyone who follows a vegan lifestyle.

It comes in various flavors, such as soy and almond, and provides the same creamy texture and smooth consistency as regular milk.

Furthermore, by simply adding warm water or any other type of liquid to the powder, such as oat or coconut milk, a smooth and delicious drink is created.

Plant-based milk powder can also be used to substitute sweetened condensed milk in desserts or other recipes that call for it.

To do this, mix the plant-based almond or soy powder with a sugar alternative and some melted vegan butter or margarine until the desired texture is achieved.

This is an excellent addition to cakes, cookies, pies, and more.

5 – Nut Butter with Sugar

Nut butter with sugar is a delicious indulgence.

It’s made by combining natural nut butter such as peanut, almond, or cashew with fructose and confectioner’s sugar to create a creamy texture and a unique caramelized sweetness.

The taste of nut butter with sugar is reminiscent of traditional southern pecan pie – both nutty and simultaneously sweet, giving it an extra special flavor boost.

Not only does this uniquely-flavored treat provide a great way to satisfy your sweet cravings, but it can also be substituted for sweetened condensed milk in vegan recipes.

Giving you plenty of freedom to experiment when it comes to desserts or snacks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are a variety of vegan substitutes for sweetened condensed milk that can be used in place of traditional dairy-based ingredients.

Almond milk, cashew cream, plant-based milk powder, and nut butter with sugar all provide delicious alternatives with health benefits.

So next time you’re cooking up a vegan recipe that calls for the creamy ingredient, don’t hesitate to give one of these options a try.

You’re sure to find something that fits your taste and dietary needs perfectly.

The 5 Best Vegan Substitutes for Sweetened Condensed Milk

Need a dairy-free alternative to sweetened condensed milk? Check out our top picks for vegan substitutes that will add sweetness and creaminess to your desserts and beverages.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Substitutes
Servings 1 Serving

Ingredients
  

  • Full Fat Coconut Milk
  • Almond Milk
  • Cashew Cream
  • Plant-Based Milk Powder
  • Nut Butter with Sugar

Instructions
 

  • Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
  • Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.
Keyword Vegan Substitutes for Sweetened Condensed Milk
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