Condensed vs. Evaporated Milk: What's the Difference? (2024)

FAQs

Condensed vs. Evaporated Milk: What's the Difference? ›

The main difference between evaporated milk and condensed milk is that evaporated milk is unsweetened while condensed milk is sweetened. Evaporated milk is simply fresh milk that's been heated until about 60 percent of its water content has evaporated.

Evaporated milk is milk that has been heated so that about 60% of the water evaporates. It is then canned and can be used as you would half-and-half, since it is extra creamy! Condensed milk is made in a similar way, but sugar is added to it so that about 45% of its content is sugar.

It's thicker and sweeter than evaporated milk, which means the two cannot be used interchangeably. It's typically used to make rich desserts, such as magic cookie bars, tres leches cakes or an easy caramel sauce. Just two tablespoons of condensed milk contain 18 grams of added sugar.

In summary, evaporated milk is unsweetened and has a similar nutritional value to regular milk, while sweetened condensed milk is very sweet and has a higher calorie count due to the added sugar.

Evaporated milk starts out as fresh milk and is heated to drive off more than half of the water. Add water and use it as milk or pour it straight out of the can and use it as half-and-half. Creamy, rich and perfect for baking, custards, soups and even ice cream.

For the most part, if you find yourself without condensed milk on hand, you can substitute an equal amount of evaporated milk. The consistency will be the same, but since evaporated milk is unsweetened, you'll need to add sweetener to match the recipe's intended flavor profile or to suit your personal preference.

Sweetened-condensed milk is the perfect addition to all kinds of treats and recipes, from pies to fudge to tres leches cake. But in Vietnamese coffee culture, it has a much more important purpose – it's mixed into strong coffee to make delicious, traditional Vietnamese brew.

Evaporated Milk – With a similar consistency, you can use a 1-to-1 swap of evaporated milk for heavy cream in most sweet and savory dishes. Its flavor is richer with unique caramelized tones and is not a lower-fat option, but evaporated milk makes do in a pinch.

Just like fresh milk or powdered milk, evaporated milk is a healthy choice. It provides nutrients needed for healthy bones: protein, calcium, vitamins A and D. Evaporated milk is sold in cans. It comes in skim, 1%, 2% or hom*ogenized (3.25%) versions.

And while milk might only last a week in the refrigerator, unopened evaporated milk that is properly stored can last up to two years. But how can you tell when it's gone bad? In short, by looking at it. If your milk has turned dark yellow or brown, don't use it.

Why is condensed milk not advisable? ›

High Sugar Content: Condensed milk is known for its high sugar content. Regular consumption of foods and beverages high in added sugars can contribute to various health iss.

On its own, evaporated milk is thick and creamy, making it an excellent replacement for half and half or creamer in your coffee or tea. You can also experiment with adding it to smoothies, milkshakes, soup, or pasta sauces, although you'll want to use less than you would with regular milk.

The thick syrup contributes both the sweetness of sugar and the benefits of milk without adding too much liquid since condensing milk removes moisture and concentrates the natural sugars. These sugars then take on toasty notes as they warm up and bake in the dessert.

Evaporated milk may be used to prepare both sweet and savory dishes, mostly desserts or sauces that call for a thick consistency. You may also use it as a substitute for heavy cream or half-and-half, or even drink it on its own. Still, note that its caramelized taste differs from that of fresh cow's milk.

So, now we know that evaporated milk is safe to drink from its container, but just because you can consume it this way doesn't necessarily mean you'll want to. Since evaporated milk is thick and creamy, the consistency will be completely different than a regular carton that you're used to.

Evaporated milk may also be added to coffee or tea, or used as a substitute for heavy cream or half-and-half. You may even decide to drink it on its own, use it to prepare smoothies, or enjoy it with your favorite cereal, especially if you're trying to gain weight.

Regular Milk (whole, 2% or skim)

How to Substitute: Place milk in a saucepan and simmer it on the stovetop for about 30 minutes until it has reduced by about 60%. To make the equivalent of a 12 ounce can of evaporated milk, simmer a quart of milk or 32 ounces, until it reduces to about 12.

Evaporated milk offers a lighter alternative with subtle sweetness, while heavy cream provides unparalleled richness and creaminess. Each ingredient lends its unique texture and flavor profile to recipes, whether it's a savory coconut curry, a decadent coconut cream pie, or a refreshing coconut ice cream.