Combining the rich creaminess of condensed milk with the nutty crunch of peanuts results in an unexpectedly delightful treat. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests with a unique, homemade confection. Here’s how to create this delicious dish step-by-step.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (395g) of sweetened condensed milk
- 200g of roasted, unsalted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Measure the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and measure them out to ensure a smooth cooking process. Proper preparation can help streamline the steps and reduce the likelihood of missing out on any components.
- Roast the Peanuts: If your peanuts are not pre-roasted, you can roast them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or until they are golden brown. Let them cool before using. Roasting the peanuts enhances their flavor, giving the final treat a deeper, richer taste.
Step 2: Cook the Mixture
- Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Ensure that the butter does not burn, so keep a close eye on it.
- Add Condensed Milk: Once the butter is melted, add the condensed milk to the saucepan. Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from burning. The condensed milk provides the sweet, creamy base for the treat.
- Incorporate Peanuts: Add the roasted peanuts to the condensed milk and butter mixture. Stir well to ensure the peanuts are evenly distributed. This step ensures that every bite will have a delightful crunch.
Step 3: Cook Until Thickened
- Cook the Mixture: Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. This will help prevent the condensed milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. The stirring is crucial to maintaining the right consistency.
- Check for Thickness: After about 10-15 minutes, the mixture should start to thicken. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to pull away from the sides of the pan and holds its shape when stirred. This thickening indicates that the mixture is ready to set properly.
Step 4: Add Flavorings (Optional)
- Add Vanilla Extract: If using, add the vanilla extract to the mixture and stir well. This will add a nice depth of flavor to the treat. Vanilla can elevate the overall taste profile, making the treat even more delightful.
- Add Salt: Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors. The salt acts as a counterbalance to the sugar, preventing the treat from being overly sweet.
Step 5: Set the Mixture
- Prepare a Dish: Grease a shallow dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent the mixture from sticking. This preparation step ensures easy removal once the mixture sets.
- Pour the Mixture: Pour the thickened mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula. Ensure the mixture is spread evenly to allow for uniform setting.
- Cool and Set: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator to set for at least 2 hours or until firm. The cooling process allows the treat to solidify into a cohesive piece.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
- Cut into Pieces: Once the mixture is fully set, remove it from the refrigerator and cut it into small squares or bars. Cutting the treat into bite-sized pieces makes it easier to serve and enjoy.
- Serve: Serve your condensed milk and peanut treat immediately or store it in an airtight container for later. This treat can be enjoyed at any time, making it a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.
Tips for the Perfect Treat
- Constant Stirring: To avoid burning the condensed milk, ensure you stir constantly while cooking. Burnt milk can ruin the flavor, so attention to this detail is crucial.
- Even Roasting: If roasting peanuts yourself, ensure they are evenly roasted for consistent flavor throughout the treat. Unevenly roasted peanuts can lead to an inconsistent taste and texture.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding different flavorings such as cinnamon, cocoa powder, or coconut flakes to customize your treat. These variations can add a new dimension to the basic recipe.
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once the mixture is set, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before cutting into pieces for an added layer of flavor. Chocolate complements the sweetness of condensed milk and the nuttiness of peanuts beautifully.
- Nut Mix: Use a mix of different nuts like almonds, cashews, and walnuts along with peanuts for a varied texture and taste. This variation can make the treat more interesting and appealing to different palates.
- Fruit Add-ins: Dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates can be added for a sweet and chewy texture. The combination of nuts and dried fruits creates a delightful contrast.
Combining condensed milk with peanuts creates a delightful and simple treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The process is straightforward, and the result is a sweet, nutty delight that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet cravings, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your homemade condensed milk and peanut treat!
This expanded guide provides a comprehensive look at creating a delightful condensed milk and peanut treat. It covers the ingredients, detailed steps, tips, and possible variations, ensuring a complete and satisfying cooking experience.
