Coconut Condensed Milk: Recipes, Tips, and Health Benefits Revealed

What is Coconut Condensed Milk?

Coconut condensed milk, also known as the sweetened cream of coconut, is a rich, creamy coconut milk that has been reduced and sweetened. Unlike regular coconut milk, it has a thick, pudding-like consistency and a sweet flavor. Coconut-condensed milk is commonly used as a dairy-free alternative to traditional condensed milk. It is made by simmering coconut milk with sugar until most of the water content evaporates, resulting in a thick and rich consistency. This dairy-free alternative is popular among individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet.

To make coconut condensed milk, coconut milk is combined with a sweetener, often sugar or a natural sweetener like agave or maple syrup. The mixture is then heated and reduced, allowing the sugars to caramelize and the liquid to thicken. The end product is a sweet, coconut-flavored condensed milk with a similar consistency to its dairy counterpart.

Coconut condensed milk can be used in various culinary applications, such as desserts, beverages, and even savory dishes, providing a tropical and dairy-free twist to recipes. It adds a creamy and sweet element to dishes like coconut flan, ice creams, or beverages like Thai iced tea. Its versatility makes it a valuable ingredient for those seeking alternatives to dairy-based condensed milk while introducing a delightful coconut flavor to their culinary creations.

Coconut Condensed Milk Nutrition Facts and Ingredient Profile

Coconut condensed milk, also known as sweetened cream of coconut, is made from coconut milk, sugar, and stabilizers. Although it is high in calories, it does provide some nutritional benefits when consumed in moderation.

Nutrition Facts

A 1/2-cup serving of coconut condensed milk contains:

• Calories: 660
• Fat: 38 grams
• Saturated fat: 36 grams
• Sugar: 58 grams
• Protein: 5 grams

While high in saturated fat, the medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut milk may help with weight loss and management. The fat in coconut milk is easily digested and used as energy instead of being stored as body fat.

Ingredients Profile

• Coconut milk: made from grated coconut meat and water. Provides healthy fats and nutrients.
• Sugar: added to sweeten the milk and thicken it.
• Stabilizers: such as guar gum or carrageenan help prevent separation and improve texture.
• Potassium phosphate: a mineral used as a buffering agent to balance pH.

Some brands do contain natural or artificial flavors, so check the label if you are avoiding additives. For the most nutritious option, choose a brand with no added flavors and as little sugar as possible.

While coconut condensed milk should be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar content, using it to replace regular condensed milk or cream in recipes can provide nutritional benefits. It works great in curries, pies, candies, or as a coffee creamer. When cooking or baking with it, you can typically use the same amount as regular condensed milk. Enjoy!

Health Benefits of Coconut Condensed Milk

Coconut condensed milk is packed with health benefits thanks to the mighty coconut. Here are some of the main benefits this sweet treat provides:

1. It's high in manganese, which helps maintain bone health and metabolize nutrients. Just one cup contains over 60% of your daily needs.
2. It contains lauric acid, a medium-chain triglyceride that may help raise HDL (good) cholesterol and improve heart health.
3. The healthy fats in coconut milk can curb appetite and promote fat burning. Despite its sweetness, it won't spike blood sugar as much as regular condensed milk.
4. It's a good source of copper, iron, and magnesium—minerals important for red blood cell health, metabolism, and hormone balance.

While coconut condensed milk is natural and minimally processed, it's still high in sugar and calories. But when consumed responsibly, it can be part of a healthy diet and provide nutritional benefits that regular condensed milk lacks. Your taste buds and body will thank you!

Top 7 Recipes With Coconut Condensed Milk

Coconut-condensed milk adds a rich, creamy sweetness to many desserts and drinks. Here are seven of our favorite recipes to make with this decadent ingredient.

Coconut Flan

Ingredients:

• 1 can of coconut condensed milk
• 4 eggs
• 1 can of coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 cup sugar (for caramel)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat until it turns into a golden caramel.
3. Pour the caramel into individual ramekins, coating the bottom.
4. In a bowl, whisk together coconut condensed milk, eggs, coconut milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the mixture over the caramel in the ramekins.
6. Place the ramekins in a baking dish, and fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the flan is set.
8. Allow the flan to cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Coconut Coffee Creamer

Ingredients:

• 1 can of coconut condensed milk
• 1 cup of coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup brewed coffee (cooled)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine coconut condensed milk, coconut milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a jar and refrigerate.
4. Add a spoonful to your coffee for a rich and coconut-flavored creamer.

Coconut Bread Pudding

Ingredients:

• 6 cups of cubed bread
• 2 cans of coconut milk
• 1 can of coconut condensed milk
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup of raisins
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, coconut condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Place the cubed bread in the baking dish and sprinkle raisins over the top.
4. Pour the coconut milk mixture over the bread and let it soak for 15 minutes.
5. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
6. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Coconut Tres Leches Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 box of yellow cake mix
• 1 can of coconut condensed milk
• 1 can of evaporated milk
• 1 cup of coconut milk
• 2 cups of whipped cream
• Shredded coconut for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions.
2. Once baked and cooled, poke holes in the cake using a fork.
3. In a bowl, mix coconut condensed milk, evaporated milk, and coconut milk.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to absorb.
5. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Before serving, spread whipped cream over the cake and garnish with shredded coconut.

Coconut Fudge

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded coconut
• 1 can of coconut condensed milk
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or cashews)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Toast the shredded coconut in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown.
2. In a saucepan, combine coconut condensed milk and white chocolate chips over low heat, stirring until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in the toasted coconut, chopped nuts, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture into a lined pan and spread it evenly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the fudge is set.
6. Cut into squares and enjoy.

Coconut Macaroons

Ingredients:

• 3 cups shredded coconut
• 1 can of coconut condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 2 egg whites
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional, for dipping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix shredded coconut, coconut condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coconut mixture.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
7. Allow the macaroons to cool.
8. Optionally, melt chocolate chips and dip the bottoms of the macaroons in chocolate.
9. Serve and enjoy!

Coconut Ice Cream

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of coconut milk
• 1 can of coconut condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional mix-ins (chocolate chips, shredded coconut, nuts)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine coconut milk, coconut condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
2. Blend until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Add optional mix-ins during the last few minutes of churning.
5. Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze until firm.
6. Scoop and enjoy your homemade coconut ice cream.

These recipes showcase the sweet and indulgent possibilities that coconut condensed milk brings to your kitchen. From creamy flans to chewy macaroons, these treats offer a delightful taste of coconut goodness.

Creative Ways to Use Coconut-Condensed Milk

1. Make dairy-free ice cream. Blend one can of coconut condensed milk, 1 1/2 cups coconut milk, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Freeze the mixture in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Create coconut macaroons. Mix 1 1/3 cups shredded coconut, 1/2 cup coconut condensed milk, and 1/4 cup coconut flour. Drop spoonfuls onto a lined baking sheet and bake at 350 F for about 15 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Make coconut caramels or pecan pralines. Heat 1 cup coconut condensed milk, 1 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup butter until 240 F on a candy thermometer. Stir in vanilla and salt, pour into a pan, and chill until firm.
4. Toss with fruit for a quick dessert topping.
5. Add it to curries or stews for a touch of sweetness.
6. Make coconut whipped cream by chilling a can, whipping the solid cream, and sweetening with honey if desired.

Conclusion

So now you know all about this creamy tropical treat and the wonders it can do in your kitchen and for your health. Coconut condensed milk is so versatile and delicious, that you'll be finding excuses to add it to everything once you start experimenting. Whether in curries, desserts, or morning coffee, the rich coconutty flavor can't be beat. And with its immunity-boosting powers and metabolism-revving fats, you can feel good indulging in this little luxury. So get creative and go coco-nuts; your taste buds and your body will thank you! A sweet ending to a journey into the world of coconut condensed milk. Enjoy!