Craving something sweet and vegan? You've hit the jackpot.
We've been there - that moment you're about to whip up a storm in the kitchen, and bam, you realize your recipe calls for sweetened condensed milk.
Now, before you toss that apron aside, we've got some magic tricks up our sleeve.
Veganizing your favorite desserts just got a whole lot easier.
Say goodbye to the traditional dairy-laden options; we're about to introduce you to five game-changing vegan substitutes that'll keep the sweetness alive without missing a beat.
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.
