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The Lowdown on Evaporated and Condensed Milk: What You Need to Know

When it comes to baking, two types of milk often cause confusion: evaporated milk and condensed milk. While they may seem interchangeable, they have distinct differences that can affect the outcome of your recipes.

What’s in a Can?

Evaporated milk is cow’s milk with 60% of its water content removed, making it shelf-stable. Condensed milk, on the other hand, is evaporated milk with added sugar. Both products contain stabilizers and preservatives to extend their shelf life.

A Brief History

Before pasteurization, milk was difficult to store for long periods. Evaporated milk became popular in the late 19th century as a way to kill bacteria and extend shelf life. Condensed milk was introduced during the American Civil War, providing a nutritious and safe product for soldiers and civilians.

Manufacturing Process

To make evaporated milk, manufacturers heat milk to kill bacteria and remove excess water. For condensed milk, sugar is added to evaporated milk at a 50/50 ratio, resulting in a thick, rich, and off-white product.

Sweet Treats and Savory Delights

Condensed milk is a staple in desserts worldwide, used to make dulce de leche, sweeten coffee, and add richness to baked goods. Evaporated milk, on the other hand, is a versatile ingredient for both sweet and savory recipes, such as fudge, pie, and cheesy macaroni.

Can You Substitute One for the Other?

While you can’t swap evaporated and condensed milk directly, you can use evaporated milk with added sugar as a substitute in a pinch. However, it’s best to keep both types of milk on hand to ensure the best results.

Recipe Roundup

Try these recipes to experience the unique benefits of each milk type:

• Evaporated Milk Recipes:
  • Nacho Queso Dip
  • Grilled Chicken with Roasted Poblano Cream Sauce
  • Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
  • Coconut Sago Pudding
• Condensed Milk Recipes:
  • No-Churn Cake Batter Ice Cream
  • Homemade Dulce de Leche
  • Easy Mocha Fudge
  • Rice Krispie Treats
• Recipes That Use Both:
  • Easy Lime Icebox Cake
  • Tres Leches Cake

The Bottom Line

In summary, evaporated milk and condensed milk are distinct products with different uses. While evaporated milk can be used in both sweet and savory recipes, condensed milk is primarily reserved for desserts. By understanding the differences between these two milks, you’ll be better equipped to tackle any recipe that comes your way.