Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk: A Guilt-Free Indulgence

For those embracing a keto lifestyle, the desire for sweet treats doesn't have to be a thing of the past. This article explores how to create a sugar-free Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk, a versatile ingredient that opens up a world of possibilities for low-carb desserts and beverages.

The Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk Revolution

Traditional sweetened condensed milk is a staple in many classic desserts, but its high sugar content makes it unsuitable for keto diets. Fortunately, a homemade keto version allows you to enjoy the rich, sweet flavor without the carbs. By using sugar substitutes and adjusting the ingredients, you can recreate this essential baking component.

Why Make Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk at Home?

While you can find sugar-free alternatives in stores, making your own Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk offers several advantages:

• Control over Ingredients: You have the power to choose high-quality, keto-friendly ingredients, avoiding unwanted additives and preservatives.
• Customization: You can adjust the sweetness, thickness, and flavor to your liking.
• Freshness: Homemade versions are free from the preservatives found in store-bought products.

Versatility of Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk

Once you've made your Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk, the possibilities are endless. Use it to:

• Sweeten keto-friendly desserts like fudge, pies, and ice cream.
• Create creamy keto coffee or lattes.
• Drizzle over pancakes or waffles.
• Add a keto-friendly twist to cocktails and mocktails.

Two Approaches to Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk

There are generally two methods for making keto sweetened condensed milk: a no-cook version and a cooked version.

Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers

No-Cook Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk

This method is quick and easy, requiring only a few ingredients and a blender or food processor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar-free 100% whey protein powder (a mix of concentrate and isolate protein)
• Granulated sugar substitute
• Boiling water

Instructions:

1. Place protein powder, granulated sugar substitute, and boiling water into a food processor or blender.
2. Blend until the mixture becomes homogeneous, smooth, and creamy, about 30-60 seconds.
3. If it is too thick, start adding a little bit more water and blend again until becoming creamy but neither too thick nor too thin.
4. Pour the mixture into a mason jar and let it cool fully before closing the jar and chilling it in the fridge.
5. It will get thicker as it chills.

Tips:

• Choose a protein powder with a flavor you enjoy, as it will affect the taste of the final product. Vanilla protein powder is often a good choice.
• The amount of boiling water needed may vary depending on the type of protein powder used. Isolated protein powder typically requires more water than whey protein.
• If you're not on a high-protein diet, you can substitute full-fat coconut milk powder or milk powder for protein powder.
• Avoid using liquid sugar substitutes, as they can alter the consistency.

Cooked Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk

This method involves simmering the ingredients on the stove to achieve a thicker, richer consistency.

Ingredients:

• Heavy whipping cream
• Unsalted butter
• Low-carb sweetener (such as allulose, monk fruit, or erythritol blend)
• Xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
• Vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)

Instructions:

1. Combine heavy whipping cream and sweeteners in a large heavy saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has reduced by about half and is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Watch carefully as you want it to simmer but not continue to boil. There should be little bubbles along the edges the whole time.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted.
5. If desired, sprinkle the surface with xanthan gum and whisk vigorously to combine.
6. Stir in vanilla extract, if using.
7. Let cool completely. Mixture will thicken as it cools.

Tips:

• Using a combination of sweeteners, such as allulose and Swerve Confectioners, can help prevent recrystallization and achieve the right consistency.
• For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. You may need to cook it longer and add more xanthan gum to thicken it.
• Be patient and allow the mixture to cool completely, as it will continue to thicken as it cools.
• To avoid scorching, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and stir the mixture frequently.

Sweetener Selection

The choice of sweetener is crucial for achieving the desired taste and consistency in Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk.

• Allulose: This sweetener provides a smooth, non-bitter sweetness and helps keep the condensed milk soft and gooey. It also tends to caramelize easily, so be careful not to overcook it.
• Monk Fruit: Another natural sweetener option, monk fruit is often blended with erythritol to balance the sweetness and prevent crystallization.
• Erythritol: While erythritol is a popular keto sweetener, it can sometimes recrystallize as it cools, resulting in a grainy texture. Combining it with allulose or another sweetener can help mitigate this issue.
• Swerve: Swerve is an erythritol-based sweetener that comes in granulated and confectioners' forms. The confectioners' form is ideal for Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk as it dissolves easily and helps thicken the mixture.

Troubleshooting

• Grainy Texture: This is usually caused by the sweetener recrystallizing. Try using a powdered sweetener or combining erythritol with allulose.
• Not Thickening: Ensure you are simmering the mixture long enough and using a sufficient amount of sweetener and/or thickener (such as xanthan gum).
• Too Thick: If the condensed milk becomes too thick, you can add a little warm water or heavy cream to thin it out.

Storage

Store Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Transforming Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk into Caramel Sauce

For an even more decadent treat, you can easily turn your Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk into caramel sauce. Simply simmer the mixture on medium-low heat for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired caramel consistency.

Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide

Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk Recipes

Here are a few ideas for using your homemade Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk:

• Keto Fudge: Combine Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk with chocolate, butter, and nuts for a rich and satisfying fudge.
• Keto Ice Cream: Use Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk as a base for creamy, low-carb ice cream.
• Keto Pies and Cheesecakes: Add Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk to your favorite pie and cheesecake recipes for extra sweetness and creaminess.
• Vietnamese Coffee: Swirl Keto Sweetened Condensed Milk into hot or iced coffee for a delicious and keto-friendly twist on this classic beverage.

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