Homemade Sweetened Condensed Coconut Milk

Time to Make:
30–40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1/3 to 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to sweetness preference)
• Pinch of salt (optional, enhances flavor)
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional, added at the end for a flavor boost)

Instructions:

1. Combine & heat:
   Pour the coconut milk into a small saucepan and add the sugar. Stir to dissolve.
2. Simmer:
   Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking or burning.
3. Reduce:
   Let it simmer gently (not boil) for about 30–35 minutes, until the liquid reduces by about half and thickens. Stir occasionally. It will thicken more as it cools.
4. Finish:
   Once thickened, remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.
5. Cool & store:
   Let it cool completely. Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.

This makes about 3/4 cup to 1 cup of sweetened condensed coconut milk—just the right amount for a batch or two of Thai iced tea.