Condensed Milk Cake

 

🍰 Condensed Milk Cake Recipe: Moist, Tender, and Delightfully Sweet

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Introduction

Condensed Milk Cake is a classic dessert that showcases the rich, creamy sweetness of sweetened condensed milk. The cake is incredibly moist and tender, with a delicate crumb and a subtly caramelized flavor from the condensed milk. It’s perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to afternoon tea, or a simple family treat.

This cake is simple to make, using common ingredients, and requires no fancy techniques. The sweetened condensed milk not only sweetens the cake but also adds moisture and richness, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a luscious homemade cake.

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Ingredients Breakdown

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour — the base that provides structure to the cake.

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder — helps the cake rise, making it light and fluffy.

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda — works with acidic ingredients to leaven.

• ½ teaspoon salt — balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk — the star ingredient, adds sweetness and moisture.

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened (about 170g) — adds richness and tenderness.

• 4 large eggs, room temperature — bind the cake and add structure.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — for aromatic flavor.

• ½ cup whole milk or buttermilk — adds moisture and helps the cake stay tender.

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Optional Toppings and Fillings

• Powdered sugar dusting — simple and elegant finish.

• Whipped cream or frosting — cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or caramel drizzle pairs beautifully.

• Fresh fruits — berries, sliced peaches, or mango for contrast.

• Nuts — chopped toasted almonds or pecans for texture.

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Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls

• Electric mixer or stand mixer (hand whisk can work but requires more effort)

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Sifter or fine sieve

• 9-inch round cake pan or 8x8 inch square pan

• Cooling rack

• Spatula

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pan with butter or non-stick spray, and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Alternatively, line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a medium bowl. Sifting aerates the flour and helps combine the leavening agents evenly.

Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for best results; they blend more smoothly and trap air better for a lighter cake.

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Step 2: Cream the Butter and Condensed Milk

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes). Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue beating until fully combined and lightened in color.

This creaming step is crucial—it incorporates air into the batter, helping the cake rise.

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Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual mixing helps the batter stay emulsified, resulting in a smooth texture. After all eggs are incorporated, mix in the vanilla extract.

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Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk or buttermilk in two parts. Start and end with the dry ingredients.

Mix gently but thoroughly until you have a smooth, uniform batter. Avoid overmixing, as it can develop gluten and make the cake tough.

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Step 5: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Oven times may vary, so start checking at 30 minutes.

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Step 6: Cooling

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from becoming soggy from trapped steam.

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Tips for Perfect Condensed Milk Cake

• Use fresh baking powder and baking soda to ensure proper rise.

• Keep ingredients room temperature for better mixing.

• Don’t skip the sifting — it improves texture.

• Cream butter and condensed milk well for a lighter cake.

• Avoid overmixing after adding flour to keep crumb tender.

• Check the cake a few minutes before time is up to avoid overbaking.

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Variations and Flavor Ideas

• Citrus twist: Add 1 tablespoon grated lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright, fresh flavor.

• Coffee-infused: Add 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules dissolved in milk.

• Coconut: Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter or sprinkle on top before baking.

• Chocolate: Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips or swirl in cocoa powder.

• Spices: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or cardamom for warmth.

• Frosting options: Cream cheese frosting complements the cake’s sweetness, or try salted caramel sauce for a decadent finish.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve slices with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Dust with powdered sugar for a simple presentation.

• Pair with fresh fruit or a fruit compote for balance.

• Enjoy with tea or coffee as an afternoon treat.

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Storage and Shelf Life

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, wrap well and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• You can also freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal

• Fat: 18-22g

• Carbohydrates: 45-50g

• Protein: 5g

• Sugars: 35g

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Troubleshooting Common Problems

Problem	Cause	Solution
Cake sinks in middle	Underbaked or overmixing	Bake fully, avoid overmixing
Dense texture	Too much flour or overmixing	Measure flour carefully, mix gently
Dry cake	Overbaked or insufficient fat/liquid	Check oven time, add milk/butter if needed
Crust too hard	Oven too hot or sugar caramelized	Use oven thermometer, reduce sugar slightly