Sweetened Condensed Milk

"The Holidays" are approaching fast! It's already Thanksgiving in Canada. It's almost Halloween. Are we panicky yet??

One ingredient I use a lot in holiday baking is sweetened condensed milk. At well over a dollar a can, it can get pricey! I found this recipe a long time ago in a cookbook full of recipes strictly for making your own version of processed products.

About 20 years ago I even had it published in the paper! Someone wrote the cooking column asking for one,and the columnist replied "Sure, I'll ask, but WHY would anyone care about making their own?" With my recipe I sent this response: "It's cheaper, for one. Also it's nonfat (there was no nonfat version of canned back then), and you know exactly how old it is -- and what's in it. No additives!"

Just be aware that it will be a thinner consistency than the canned. For most things this is not a problem, in fact I can't think of anything at the moment! You may find that there are certain recipes you will still want to use the canned. But for most things this is a nice substitute and no one will ever guess there is less fat in their holiday goodies!

Sweetened Condensed Milk

1-1/2 cups dry milk powder
1/2 cup water
2/3 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

Mix milk powder with water until smooth. Add remaining ingredients. Microwave on high for 90 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds. Cool before using.

This makes the equivalent of a 14 oz can.