Sweetened Condensed Milk vs Evaporated Milk: Differences, Uses & Recipes
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When browsing through recipes—especially those for desserts, casseroles, or creamy beverages—you may come across sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk. Though they look similar and are often sold side by side on grocery store shelves, these two dairy products serve very different purposes in cooking and baking. Understanding the differences between them will help you use them correctly and elevate your dishes.
What Is Sweetened Condensed Milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is made by removing most of the water content from fresh milk, then adding a significant amount of sugar. This combination creates a thick, syrupy, sweet liquid with a rich and creamy consistency. The process involves heating the milk, allowing it to evaporate until about 60% of the water is gone, and then blending in sugar to both sweeten and preserve it.
Because of its sugar content and concentrated texture, sweetened condensed milk has a long shelf life and is typically canned for convenience. Its velvety texture and caramel-like sweetness make it a staple ingredient in many dessert recipes.
Common Uses for Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Fudge and caramels
- No-bake desserts
- Ice cream bases
- Key lime pie and other custards
- Mirror glaze recipes
- Vietnamese coffee and Thai iced tea
Because it’s already sweetened, it’s best used in recipes where sugar is expected. Its sweetness can easily overpower a dish, so it’s generally not used in savory cooking.
What Is Evaporated Milk?
Evaporated milk, also known as “unsweetened condensed milk,” is made by heating fresh milk until about 60% of its water content evaporates. However, no sugar is added. This results in a more concentrated, creamy milk that has a slightly darker color and a subtle caramelized or nutty flavor due to the cooking process.
Evaporated milk has a more neutral flavor compared to its sweetened counterpart, which makes it far more versatile. It’s commonly used in both sweet and savory recipes, and can even serve as a substitute for cream or milk in various dishes.
Common Uses for Evaporated Milk
- Creamy soups (e.g., chowders or pumpkin soup)
- Casseroles and pasta bakes
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Custards and flans
- Classic pumpkin pie
- Coffee creamer or milk substitute
Because it has no added sugar, you can control the sweetness of your recipe, making it ideal for more balanced cooking or baking needs.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Sweetened Condensed Milk | Evaporated Milk |
|---|---|---|
| Water Removed | ~60% | ~60% |
| Sugar Added | Yes (about 40–45%) | No |
| Flavor Profile | Very sweet, rich, caramelized | Neutral, slightly nutty/caramelized |
| Texture | Thick, syrupy | Thin, creamy |
| Best Used For | Desserts, coffee, candy | Soups, casseroles, baking |
| Storage | Shelf-stable for months | Shelf-stable for months |
Can You Substitute One for the Other?
In general, no—they are not direct substitutes due to the presence of sugar in sweetened condensed milk and the lack of it in evaporated milk. However, in a pinch:
- To replace sweetened condensed milk with evaporated milk: Add sugar (about 1 cup per can of evaporated milk) and reduce slightly for consistency.
- To replace evaporated milk with sweetened condensed milk: Only in desserts—reduce or eliminate other sweeteners in the recipe.
These substitutions can work, but will require recipe adjustments and may alter flavor and texture.
Why These Products Are Kitchen Essentials
Both sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk are convenient, shelf-stable, and rich in flavor. They serve as valuable tools for any cook or baker looking to add creaminess or depth to a recipe without relying on fresh dairy. They also travel well and store easily, making them pantry staples in many households worldwide.
Quick Tips for Use
- Don’t confuse the cans: Always read the label. Mistaking one for the other could ruin a dish.
- Store opened cans: Use within 3–5 days and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- DIY alternatives: You can make your own evaporated or sweetened condensed milk by simmering milk (and sugar for condensed) until reduced.
Conclusion
While sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk may originate from the same source—milk—they are quite different in both flavor and function. Sweetened condensed milk is ideal for indulgent desserts and rich drinks, while evaporated milk provides a more flexible, less sugary option for both sweet and savory recipes. Knowing when and how to use each can unlock new culinary possibilities and improve the quality of your dishes.
So the next time you see these two on the shelf, you’ll know exactly which one you need—and how to use it like a pro!
