You likely have both of these staples in your pantry, but how do they differ? Learn all about both types of canned milk—and secrets for using each one.
What’s the Difference Between Evaporated and Condensed Milk?
Updated on Feb. 27, 2024
It happens almost every Thanksgiving. I’m super excited to whip up one of my favorite pumpkin pie recipes, when I realize it’s a can of condensed milk hiding in my pantry—not the evaporated milk I need. Frustrated, I go to the store, because even though they’re similar in name, there’s a stark difference between evaporated and condensed milk.
Luckily, it’s easy to remember the difference. Read on to discover more about each type of milk and to learn if you can substitute condensed milk for evaporated milk—or vice versa.
What is evaporated milk?
Evaporated milk is just what it sounds like. It’s milk that has gone through a cooking process to remove—or evaporate—over half of the water content. The resulting liquid is creamier and thicker than regular whole milk, making it the perfect addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Since most of the water is removed, evaporated milk also provides a concentrated, nutty flavor.
Keep evaporated milk on hand to mix into mac and cheese or to use in custard-based desserts. Try it out with these extra-delicious evaporated milk recipes. As far as nutritional value goes, full-fat evaporated milk has about 340 calories and 20 grams of fat per cup, making it a healthier replacement for heavy cream.
The shelf life of evaporated milk is also much longer than fresh milk. Expect a can to last in your pantry for six months to a year—depending on if you buy the full-fat or low-fat variety. While you’re at it, learn about other foods that last a long time in the pantry.
Need to make a sweet potato pie but out of this key ingredient? You can easily find or make a substitute for evaporated milk.
Our Favorite Evaporated Milk Recipes
Healthy Pumpkin PieDon't worry, our healthy pumpkin pie recipe doesn't shy away from the classic fall flavor you love.
Don't swap evaporated milk with condensed milk—they're not interchangeable. Here's what makes them different.
Chicken and Asparagus BakeGreet guests with a taste of springtime with this chicken and asparagus casserole on the menu. It bakes in just half an hour. People savor the rich cheesy sauce, and it freezes well too. —Ramona Ruskell, Columbia, Missouri
Beef Enchiladas VerdesThese beef enchiladas verdes are easy to make ahead and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. After quickly cooking the tortillas in hot oil, I layer them between paper napkins to soak up excess oil. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Lemon Raspberry CakeThis lemon raspberry cake is rich, tender and full of lemon and raspberry flavors. If you like lemon and raspberry, this is a recipe you'll want to make as soon as you can.
Cocktail MeatballsSweet, juicy meatballs on toothpicks send a strong signal that it’s time to party. This easy cocktail meatballs recipe is ready in an hour and packs some satisfyingly beefy flavors
Sweet Potato CheesecakeBored with pumpkin pie? Our sweet potato cheesecake sings with the same fall flavors but features a creamy layered filling and a lovely graham cracker crust.
Southern Mac and CheeseSouthern mac and cheese is an uncomplicated comfort food favorite that uses affordable ingredients for a super rich dish.
Gob CakeThis gob cake recipe has been passed down in our family for generations. We always eat it at our gatherings. —Kristina Hershey, Columbia, Pennsylvania
Stroganoff SoupMy husband and I share a love for all kinds of soup and came up with this delicious recipe together. It really does taste like beef Stroganoff. With a crusty roll, it's a satisfying meal in itself. —Karen Shiveley, Springfield, Minnesota
FudgeNo need to head to the candy store when you have this fudge recipe. We will show you how to make fudge that is rich, creamy and decadent.
Pumpkin Spice CustardHere's a traditional slow-cooker pumpkin spice custard with some espresso powder for a latte effect. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon
Caramel CupsYep, we've transformed your favorite candy bar into a whole 'nother bite-sized treat. Learn how to make Twix cookies—a riff on delicious caramel cups.
Clam ChowderEnjoy a big bowl of award-winning clam chowder, a traditional favorite from the New England coast. It's creamy and chock-full of clams, potatoes, bacon and more.
Old-Fashioned Oat BreadWhen this old-fashioned oat bread is baking, it reminds me of childhood and the warm, inviting aromas that greeted me after school. The light sweet flavor, crispy crust and hearty texture of this bread made for a special treat when Mom baked it for us. —Gloria Murtha, West Mifflin, Pennsylvania
Mexican Chicken CasseroleThis Mexican chicken casserole is just the ticket when you want a substantial but simple meal. Cooked chicken, canned soup, evaporated milk and aromatic vegetables create a dish—and an aroma—that will make your mouth water.
No-Bake Peanut BrowniesYou can enlist the kids to help make these chocolaty peanut butter brownies. I like
the fact that I can enjoy them but keep my kitchen cool, especially in summer. —Connie Ward, Mount Pleasant, IA
Best Banana Ice CreamThe secret to this satisfying homemade banana ice cream is fresh fruit, and few fruits are more affordable or versatile than the humble banana. Betcha can’t stop at just one scoop!
Best Seafood ChowderThis seafood chowder recipe will transport you to coastal Maine.
Sweet Potato Souffle with PecansA sweet Southern holiday side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas or Easter; sweet potato souffle combines a velvety sweet potato base with a crunchy pecan and brown sugar topping.
Broccoli Rice CasseroleDiscover the perfect potluck dish, a hearty broccoli rice casserole topped with a rich cheese sauce. It's the perfect combination: easy to make and delicious to serve!
Cake Mix BrowniesThese cake mix brownies are a mashup of two of my favorite desserts. A woman I worked with gave me a recipe for chocolate caramel brownies, and I had a recipe for yellow cake mix bars. I wondered what they would taste like together, so I tried it. I've been making them ever since! —Staci Mergenthal, Verdi, Minnesota
Flan de QuesoA creamy, cheesy dessert with homemade caramel sauce on top? Count us in! This Puerto Rican specialty offers a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors and is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Slow-Cooked Creamy RiceThis wonderful side dish goes well with any meat stew. I use whatever fresh herbs I have on hand along with the chopped parsley to add even more flavor. —Laura Crane, Leetonia, Ohio
Chocolate Caramel CandySimilar to a Snickers bar—but better—this homemade chocolate caramel candy will scratch your itch for a chewy, chocolaty, caramel, peanut butter treat.
Comforting Tuna PattiesMy grandmother and mother made these tuna patties on Fridays during Lent. I'm not the biggest fan of tuna, but it's perfect in this dish. These patties are even good cold the next day, if there are any leftovers. —Ann Marie Eberhart, Gig Harbor, Washington
BeignetsThe Big Easy is known for its fresh, doughy beignets. Here is our recipe for making these iconic doughnuts at home.
Ribbon Fantasy FudgeI developed this recipe especially for my husband, who likes anything that has chocolate and peanut butter together!
Bacon Cheeseburger SoupThis bacon cheeseburger soup brings two of my absolute favorite foods together in one! The tomato, fresh lettuce and crisp bacon toppers make this soup taste as if it's burger time. —Geoff Bales, Hemet, California
Swedish MeatballsWhip up a batch of these easy Swedish meatballs for a meal that's all comfort and no fuss!
WafflesWhipping up our waffles recipe might be the most rewarding way to start a day. Dust off your waffle maker, stir the batter, fold in the egg whites and get cookin’! The included cinnamon cream syrup recipe is optional but oh, so recommended.
Creamy Chicken and Rice SoupFor an easy meal that's equal parts cozy, comforting and satisfying, turn to this 30-minute creamy chicken and rice soup recipe.
Chocolate Cream PieWith a shortened baking window for the crust and a quickly cooked filling, our chocolate cream pie comes together with minimal hands-on time.
Cheesy Chile CasseroleA short list of ingredients packs full flavor in this easy-to-assemble casserole. Serve it as the star of your next meal. —Phyllis Bidwell, Las Vegas, Nevada
Broccoli-Mushroom Bubble BakeI got bored with the same old breakfast casseroles served at our monthly moms' meeting, so I decided to create something new. Judging by the reactions of the other moms, this one's a keeper. —Shannon Koene, Blacksburg, Virginia
Garlicky Cheddar Cheese BisqueI came up with a cheddar cheese soup a while ago and decided to give it a boost with a variety of root vegetables. Crushed pita chips and fresh parsley make fun garnishes. —Patricia Harmon, Baden, Pennsylvania
Butterscotch FudgeWhen only a decadent treat will do, give this butterscotch fudge a try. It offers a nice change of pace from typical fudge and packs a lot of flavor into each bite-sized piece.
Potato Leek SoupEven though our potato leek soup is a lighter version of the French classic, the recipe packs tons of flavor.
Irish CreamThis delicious, festive Irish cream recipe can be made with ingredients already in your refrigerator and cupboard.
Saucy Scalloped PotatoesFor old-fashioned flavor, try these scalloped potatoes. They cook up tender, creamy and comforting and chopped ham adds a hearty touch. —Elaine Kane, Keizer, Oregon
Farmer’s CasseroleThis brunch-friendly make-ahead farmer's casserole is a hearty combination of hash brown potatoes, Monterey jack cheese, ham and eggs.
No-Fuss Potato SoupFor a busy-day supper, my family loves to have big steaming, delicious bowls of this soup, along with fresh bread from our bread machine. —Dotty Egge, Pelican Rapids, Minnesota
Raspberry RibbonsI make these attractive, buttery cookies to serve at our remote guest lodge, and all the cooks in the kitchen are addicted to them! —Patsy Wolfenden, Golden, British Columbia
Ravioli with Snap Peas & MushroomsTopped with the toasty texture and flavor of hazelnuts, this pasta makes an easy, earthy weeknight dinner. I serve it with an herb and lettuce salad and white wine. —Charlene Chambers, Ormond Beach, Florida
Pretzel-Topped Sweet PotatoesEveryone I've shared this recipe with says it's the tastiest way to serve sweet potatoes. I like to make it for special dinners and even for brunch as a colorful go-with dish. The mingled sweet, tart and salty flavors are an unusual treat. —Sue Mallory, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Shrimp ChowderMove over, clam chowder! This shrimp chowder recipe is family-approved and ready to hit the table.
Short a can? You can always use a substitute for evaporated milk.
Butter Pecan CakeThis irresistible butter pecan cake features multiple layers, plenty of toasted buttery pecan crunch and a thick layer of buttercream frosting. In a word, it's delicious. Serve with a scoop of vanilla or maple ice cream to complement this decadent southern dessert.
Hawaiian MeatballsThese Hawaiian meatballs are cooked low and slow until they're rich in flavor.
Butternut Squash CasseroleThis sweet butternut squash casserole is the perfect side to pair with savory dishes during a big family feast. Just be warned: If you take it to a potluck, you'll come home with an empty dish.
Crockpot Mac and CheeseThis Crockpot mac and cheese recipe is the perfect no-fuss recipe for busy weeknights, potlucks and holiday gatherings. It contains a few secret ingredients to make an effortless cheese sauce that's incredibly rich and creamy.
Cherry & Spice Rice PuddingI live in Traverse City, the Cherry Capital of the World. What better way to celebrate our wonderful orchards than by using plump, tart dried cherries in my favorite desserts? This slow-cooked rice pudding recipe always turns out wonderful. —Deb Perry, Traverse City, Michigan
Italian Sausage & Sun-Dried Tomato PastaFlavor-packed sausage and sun-dried tomatoes are sure to liven up any simple pasta dish. I have a feeling that once you've tried it, it'll become a family favorite!—Dawn Singleton, Eighty Four, Pennsylvania
Potato SaladEveryone needs a reliable potato salad recipe in their repertoire, and this one is classic in its simplicity. It's quick and versatile, and it will go with just about anything.
Three-Chocolate FudgeI make this fudge at Christmastime to give to friends and neighbors. That tradition started years ago when I made more candy than my husband, three sons and I could eat, so we shared it. It's a tasty tradition I'm glad to continue. —Betty Grantham, Hanceville, Alabama
Cream of Wild Rice SoupTender cubes of chicken, fresh vegetables and wild rice make this soup hearty enough for a meal. You can't beat the down-home comfort of a warm bowlful. I like to serve it with whole wheat rolls. —J. Beatrice Hintz, Neenah, Wisconsin
Pumpkin French Toast CasseroleOur pumpkin French toast casserole combines cinnamon-raisin bread, cream cheese and fall spices with canned pumpkin. Prep the casserole in the evening so you can pop it in the oven when you wake up.
Coconut CloudsCoconut lovers will have extra reason to celebrate when they taste these cakelike drop cookies. The generous frosting and coconut topping make them a hit at holiday cookie swaps. —Donna Scofield, Yakima, Washington
Pumpkin Pie SmoothiesMy pie-flavored smoothie is loaded with fruit. The spices make it all come together. —Karen Sikora, Dayton, Nevada
Sweet Potato Pecan PieSweet potato pecan pie pairs two southern classics in one delicious layered dessert.
Chocolate-Caramel Rum CoffeeThis decadent drink can stand alone as a final course or as a complement to dessert. Our family loves it for sipping in front of the fireplace. —Joyce Conway, Westerville, Ohio
What is condensed milk?
Condensed milk is evaporated milk’s sweeter cousin. Regular milk is cooked down to remove water—but lots of sugar is added, too. The end result is super thick and sweet. You’ll find condensed milk on the ingredients list of many dessert recipes, including fudge, layered bars and frozen pies. Have a can on hand? Don’t miss our sweetest ways to use condensed milk.
From a nutritional standpoint, condensed milk is far from healthy, packing in nearly 1,000 calories and over 150 grams of sugar per cup. With all this added sugar, condensed milk tends to last in the pantry longer than other canned milks. When properly stored, it lasts for years before going bad.
Our Favorite Condensed Milk Recipes
My mother never wrote down her delightful recipes, so I created this recipe as a holiday tribute to her. They're creamy, sweet and a little tart. Eat with a fork so you can scoop up all the delicious topping ingredients that might tumble off. —Lisa Glassman, Boynton Beach, Florida
Ran out of condensed milk? Try out these condensed milk substitutes instead.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Poke CakeWhen my family is planning a get-together, I can count on three or four people to ask if I'm bringing this dessert. If you don't have a chocolate cake mix, use a white or yellow one and stir in 3 tablespoons baking cocoa. —Fay Moreland, Wichita Falls, Texas
Coconut Pound CakeTropical flavor shines in this sweet and simple coconut pound cake recipe. Baking it in a fluted pan gives it a sophisticated look, but once the butter and cream cheese for the batter are softened it's a cake you can have in the oven in only about 20 minutes.
Chocolate TrufflesThese chocolate truffles with condensed milk are so quick and easy that you'll have almost no reason not to bring a batch to your next event
Pot of S’moresMom’s easy Dutch-oven version of the popular campout treat is so good and gooey. The hardest part is waiting for this to cool so you can devour it. Yum! —June Dress, Meridian, Idaho
Kahlua FudgeThis five-ingredient recipe makes serving up treats easy and scrumptious. —Laura Hanks, Harleysville, Pennsylvania
Frozen Key Lime DelightIn the middle of summer, nothing hits the spot quite like this sublime Key lime dessert. Cold, creamy and tart, it tastes like sunshine. —Melissa Millwood, Lyman, South Carolina
Irish Creme DrinkWe top off holiday celebrations with this creamy beverage. With sweetened condensed milk and ice cream, it's like a liquid dessert!—Fred Schneider, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
Pecan Pie BarsCome for the pecan pie-like flavors, stay for the milk chocolate toffee bits. Our pecan pie bars might be tastier than their pie inspiration!
Special Chocolate TreatsI serve these lovely cookies to guests. They freeze well. —Walter Max, Wabasha, Minnesota
Cherry-Coconut Chocolate TorteThis torte reminds me of two favorite treats: chocolate covered cherries and old-fashioned Cherry Mash candy bars. —Dian Hicks Carlson, Omaha, Nebraska
Cake Mix Cookie BarsCake mix cookie bars have a scrumptious chocolate layer between two cookie layers made with cake mix. It's a simple and speedy recipe when you want something baked, and you want it quick.
Dulce de LecheHere's how to make dulce de leche with a can of sweetened condensed milk.
Almond Cherry FudgeCooked in the microwave, this fast fudge is a sweet addition to any holiday gathering. I make it when I need a quick treat for a school party or to take to a neighbor. —Shellie Tucker, Hendersonvlle, Tennessee
3-Ingredient Ice CreamWhip together an easy, three-ingredient, creamy dessert in just 15 minutes. Heavy whipping cream, sweetened condensed cream and vanilla extract create a velvety, smooth frozen dessert that's just sweet enough to satisfy any craving. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Lime TartThis lime tart is a prettier version of Key lime pie, complete with a delicious graham cracker crust and tangy whipped topping.
Sweet Potato Cheesecake BrowniesSatisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent sweet potato cheesecake brownie bars. This simple recipe results in an irresistible treat for just about any occasion.
Chocolate Malt CheesecakeMy mother-in-law loved chocolate malts and cheesecakes, too. Can you guess who passed this recipe on to me? Sometimes, I substitute pretzel crumbs for the graham cracker crumbs. They make a surprisingly good crust! —Anita Moffett, Rewey, Wisconsin
Tres Leches CakeExperience the ultimate in creamy, dreamy desserts with this easy-to-make tres leches cake, soaked in a trio of milks and finished with a cloud of whipped cream.
S’mores on a StickMy kids love to take these for treats everywhere. That's lucky for me since they are so easy to make. Beside the sprinkles, try mini candies for toppings.—Ronda Weirich, Plains, Kansas
Pineapple & Cream Cheese Bread PuddingThis bread pudding is easy, convenient, versatile, and delicious. Every time I take it to church or school everyone asks for the recipe because it's the best bread pudding they have ever tasted—I never have any leftovers. This delicious brunch casserole has been requested for family gatherings, holidays, weddings, and birthday parties.—Laura Ellis, Biloxi, Mississippi
Picnic BarsYou'll score points with a crowd when you stir together these delicious fudge-like treats. They're very moist and rich. The chocolate chips and walnuts make a pretty topping. —Frank Bee, Eugene, Oregon
Marshmallow-Almond Key Lime PieSummer is peak season for Key limes—a must for this pie’s distinctive sweet-tart flavor. Unlike other Key lime pies, mine has a smooth marshmallow layer on top. This makes it stand out as a crowd favorite. —Judy Castranova, New Bern, North Carolina
Caramel BrowniesSatisfy your sweet tooth with these rich, gooey caramel brownies. Topped with crushed walnut pieces and a hearty swirl of caramel layered throughout, these brownies will be a delight the next time you're craving decadence.
Chocolate-Covered Cherry CookiesAlthough these cookies require a little extra effort, they’re worth it. I make them for every family gathering—and they never last long! —Marie Kinyon, Mason, Michigan
Lemon Icebox PieOur chilled, no-bake lemon icebox pie is the perfect indulgence on a hot summer's day.
S’more CheesecakeThis luscious dessert is just as wonderfully tasty as the campfire snack that inspired it. It's a great way to savor a summer classic anytime of year. Our 4-year-old daughter likes it so much that she's requested it for her next birthday! —Robin Andrews, Cary, North Carolina
How can I substitute for canned milk?
It’s pretty frustrating to get halfway through a recipe before realizing it calls for an ingredient you don’t have on hand. Luckily, when it comes to evaporated and condensed milk, there are a few easy substitutions.
- When you’re out of evaporated milk: To mimic the taste and consistency of evaporated milk, simply boil fresh milk until it reduces in volume. For best results, use 2 percent or whole milk.
- Can you substitute condensed milk for evaporated milk? In most recipes, you can—just be sure to add additional sugar. You’ll want to add roughly 1 cup of sugar to each cup of evaporated milk, and heat the mixture in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves. If you’re lactose intolerant, learn how to substitute soy milk for dairy milk. Here are some other condensed milk substitutes.
