Evaporated milk is common in many baked goods, sauces, and creamy dishes.
But what happens when you don’t have this dairy product or are looking for substitutes for evaporated milk? Plenty of evaporated milk substitutes can be easily incorporated into your recipes.
This article covers the ultimate list of evaporated milk substitutes that will help you mix it up in the kitchen and create delicious dishes without missing a beat.
Evaporated milk is a staple in many recipes, but what happens when you run out of it? Rather than panicking and abandoning your recipe altogether, there are several substitutes that you can use instead.
These substitutes are easily available and will not significantly affect the flavor or texture of your dish.
This blog post will discuss great substitutes for evaporated milk that you can use in a pinch.
1. Quinoa Milk
If you’re looking for gluten-free, vegan substitutes for evaporated milk, then quinoa milk is worth trying.
This milk is made by blending quinoa seeds with water, and it can be used as a replacement for evaporated milk in many recipes.
Quinoa milk has a light and nutty flavor, and it can be sweetened or flavored with vanilla extract to suit your tastes.
To make quinoa milk, rinse 1 cup of quinoa seeds, and add them to a blender with 4 cups of water.
Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth. Then, pour the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove leftover solids.
Quinoa milk is rich in nutrients such as protein, fiber, and magnesium, and it can be used in various recipes, from creamy sauces and gravies to baked goods and desserts.
So why not try it and add some extra nutrition to your cooking?
2. Soy Milk
Soy milk is one of the most popular dairy-free substitutes for evaporated milk, as it has a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
It is made from whole soybeans that have been soaked and ground into a fine paste, then mixed with water and strained.
Soy milk is also high in protein, making it a great option for those looking to add some extra nutrients to their recipe.
To use soy milk as a substitute for evaporated milk, swap it at 1:1. Remember that soy milk has a slightly different flavor profile than evaporated milk, so that the final dish may have a slightly different taste.
When choosing soy milk for your recipe, look for an unsweetened and unflavored variety, as these will be the most versatile and work well in various dishes.
You can find soy milk in most grocery stores, either in the dairy or non-dairy section.
Some people may not like the taste of soy milk or have an allergy to soy, so it may not be the best choice for everyone.
If that’s the case, don’t worry – plenty of other evaporated milk substitutes exist. Keep reading to discover some other great options!
3. Almond Milk
Almond milk is one of the most popular substitutes for evaporated milk and is a great substitute for evaporated milk in many recipes.
It is made by blending soaked almonds with water and then straining the mixture.
Almond milk has a slightly nutty flavor and is creamy in texture, which makes it a great addition to smoothies, baked goods, and sauces.
When using almond milk as a substitute for evaporated milk, it’s important to remember that it has a thinner consistency.
You may want to add a thickener, such as cornstarch or flour, to achieve the same thickness as evaporated milk.
Another tip is to reduce the amount of water used when making almond milk thicker.
Almond milk is also a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.
It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a healthier option than evaporated milk.
Overall, almond milk is a versatile and healthy alternative to evaporated milk that can be used in many recipes.
Give it a try the next time you need a substitute, and see how it enhances the flavor of your dishes.
4. Rice Milk
Rice milk is another great substitutes for evaporated milk, especially if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Made from a mixture of brown rice and water, it has a mild and sweet taste, making it a popular choice for people with lactose intolerance or those who are allergic to dairy.
When using rice milk as a substitute for evaporated milk in recipes, remember that it has a thinner consistency than evaporated milk, so you may need to add a thickener like cornstarch or flour to achieve the desired texture.
Additionally, rice milk may not be as rich or creamy as evaporated milk, so you may want to add extra fat, such as coconut oil or butter, to compensate for the difference.
Overall, rice milk is versatile and nutritious among substitutes for evaporated milk that can be used in various recipes, from soups and sauces to baked goods and desserts.
Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand free from added sugars and other additives, and always read the label carefully to ensure it’s suitable for your dietary needs.
5. Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is a great substitute for evaporated milk to add a subtle tropical flavor to your recipe.
It is made by blending grated coconut flesh with water and straining the solids. You can use canned or fresh coconut milk, depending on the recipe’s requirement.
Coconut milk has a rich and creamy texture similar to evaporated milk and is commonly used in Asian and Caribbean cuisines.
It is also a popular vegan and dairy-free option for lactose-intolerant people.
To use coconut milk as one of the substitutes for evaporated milk, replace it in a 1:1 ratio.
Remember that the coconut flavor may alter the recipe’s taste slightly. To reduce the coconut taste, you can dilute it with equal parts of water.
Coconut milk works well in recipes like curries, soups, sauces, and desserts.
It adds a delicious nutty, sweet taste to your dish and elevates the flavor. Try it in your next recipe, and enjoy the tropical twist!
6. Whole Milk
Whole milk is a popular substitute for evaporated milk in many recipes.
It has a similar consistency and fat content, making it a great replacement in custards, sauces, and creamy soups.
To use whole milk as a substitute, use equal parts of whole milk instead of evaporated milk.
However, it’s important to note that whole milk is not as rich and may have a slightly different taste and texture.
Additionally, whole milk has a shorter shelf life than evaporated milk, so use it up within a few days of opening.
Overall, whole milk is versatile and one of the readily available substitutes for evaporated milk that can be used in many recipes that call for evaporated milk.
7. Half-and-Half
If you have half-and-half sitting in your fridge, you’re in luck! This dairy product is a blend of milk and heavy cream, which means it has a similar fat content to evaporated milk.
However, it’s important to note that half-and-half is not as concentrated as evaporated milk, so you may need to use a little extra to achieve the desired result.
To use half-and-half as a substitute for evaporated milk, measure the same amount of half-and-half as the recipe calls for evaporated milk.
If you don’t have enough half-and-half, you can mix equal parts whole milk and heavy cream to create a similar consistency.
This substitution will work well in recipes that require evaporated milk for texture, such as custards, puddings, and some soups and sauces.
However, it may not be the best choice for recipes relying on evaporated milk’s distinct flavor.
Half-and-half is a versatile and easy-to-find substitute for evaporated milk, and it can help you save a trip to the store.
8. Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is a great option if you’re looking for rich and creamy substitutes for evaporated milk.
Made from the high-fat layer that rises to the top of fresh milk, heavy cream has a thick and luscious texture that can enhance the richness of many dishes.
When substituting heavy cream for evaporated milk, it’s important to remember that it has a much higher fat content, so you may need to adjust your recipe accordingly.
To use heavy cream as a substitute for evaporated milk, mix equal parts heavy cream and whole milk to create a creamy, flavorful alternative.
This mixture will have a similar consistency and flavor to evaporated milk but with a richer taste that can add depth to your recipes.
Alternatively, in certain recipes, you can use heavy cream as one of the best substitutes for evaporated milk.
This is especially true for recipes that require a small amount of evaporated milk, such as sauces or custards.
Simply whisk together heavy cream and a small amount of water to create a mixture similar to evaporated milk.
Heavy cream is a versatile and delicious substitute for evaporated milk that can add richness and depth to your recipes.
Experiment with using it in different dishes to find out which ones benefit most from its creamy texture and flavor.
9. Light Cream
Light cream might be your answer if you’re looking for a slightly lighter substitute than heavy cream.
With a fat content of around 20%, light cream is a great option for those who want to cut back on calories without sacrificing the creaminess of evaporated milk.
When using light cream as a substitute for evaporated milk, remember that it may not have the same thickness or richness.
However, it can be a great addition to recipes where you don’t want the dairy flavor to be too overpowering. Light cream works well in soups, stews, and sauces.
One thing to remember when using light cream as a substitute for evaporated milk is that it is more prone to curdling when heated.
To avoid this, slowly add the light cream to your recipe, and don’t let it boil. Instead, heat it gently over low to medium heat.
Light cream is a great substitute for evaporated milk when looking for something with a lower fat content.
While it may not be as thick or rich, it can add a nice creamy texture to your recipes. Give it a try the next time you cook up a storm in the kitchen!
10. Non-Dairy Creamer
Non-dairy creamers are a popular substitute for evaporated milk in recipes, especially for those who prefer a plant-based or lactose-free option.
However, Non-dairy creamers come in many flavors, including vanilla and hazelnut, which can add a unique twist to your dishes.
They are typically made from vegetable oil and sugar, but you can find healthier options with almond or coconut milk as the base.
When using non-dairy creamer as a substitute, remember that it has a higher fat content than evaporated milk, which can affect the texture and flavor of your recipe.
If your recipe requires a thicker consistency, you may need to add a little cornstarch or flour to thicken it up.
It is also important to note that non-dairy creamers do not have the same nutritional benefits as evaporated milk, which is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Consider nut milk or Greek yogurt if you want a more nutritious substitute.
Overall, non-dairy creamers can be a great option for those with dietary restrictions or who want to try something new in their recipes.
Just read the ingredients label and adjust accordingly for the best results.
11. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a popular substitute for evaporated milk in recipes. It has a similar consistency and thickness, making it an ideal choice for creamier dishes.
You can use plain Greek yogurt in recipes that call for evaporated milk by mixing it with an equal amount of regular milk until you get the desired consistency.
For example, if a recipe calls for one cup of evaporated milk, you can mix one cup of plain Greek yogurt with one cup of regular milk.
This will give you the same liquid as evaporated milk while adding a creamy and tangy flavor to your dish.
Greek yogurt is also a healthy alternative to evaporated milk. It’s high in protein and low in fat, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake.
You can even use flavored Greek yogurt in sweet dishes to add extra flavor without adding sugar or artificial sweeteners.
When using Greek yogurt as a substitute for evaporated milk, remember it may add a slight tanginess to your dish.
If this is not a flavor profile you enjoy, you can use a different substitute from the list.
However, if you’re a fan of Greek yogurt, this is an excellent way to add a healthy twist to your favorite recipes.
12. Rice Milk
If you’re looking for a low-fat and cholesterol-free alternative to evaporated milk, rice milk is a great option.
It is made from boiled rice, water, and sweeteners like cane sugar or vanilla extract.
The result is a thin and watery milk-like substance that can be used instead of evaporated milk.
Rice milk has a mild and slightly sweet taste, making it an excellent addition to your coffee, tea, or smoothie recipes.
You can also use it in your baking recipes to add moisture and creaminess without the added fat and calories.
However, one downside of rice milk is that it doesn’t have as much protein or calcium as regular milk. So, if you’re looking for a more nutritious substitute,
Overall, rice milk is a great option for those looking for dairy-free and low-fat substitutes for evaporated milk.
It’s a versatile and tasty ingredient that you can use in many recipes.
13. Nut Milk
Nut kinds of milk can be a great alternative to evaporated milk for lactose intolerant or to avoid dairy.
Here are some popular options:
- Cashew Milk: This nut milk is made from soaked and blended cashews and has a creamy texture and mild taste. It works well in recipes that require evaporated milk but may add a slightly nutty flavor.
- Hazelnut Milk: Like cashew milk, hazelnut milk can also be used as a substitute for evaporated milk. Its rich, nutty flavor can be a great addition to desserts like custards or puddings.
- Pistachio Milk: Made from ground pistachios and water, this nut milk is a great option for those who enjoy the taste of pistachios. It has a slightly sweet flavor and works well in baking recipes that require evaporated milk.
- Walnut Milk: Walnut milk is another great option for those looking for a nut-based alternative to evaporated milk. It has a creamy texture and works well in savory dishes like soups or sauces.
Overall, nut milk can add a unique flavor and texture to recipes that require evaporated milk.
It’s important to note that they may not work in every recipe, so be sure to do some research and testing before substituting them.
14. Oat Milk
Oat milk is a dairy-free substitute that is becoming increasingly popular among consumers.
It’s made by blending oats and water and straining them to create a smooth, creamy milk alternative.
It has a mild, slightly sweet taste and a creamy texture, making it an ideal substitute for evaporated milk.
When using oat milk as a substitute for evaporated milk, you can use it as a one-to-one replacement.
It’s perfect for creamy soups, pasta dishes, and baked goods. One benefit of using oat milk as a substitute for evaporated milk is its lower calories and fat than traditional evaporated milk.
Oat milk is also rich in nutrients such as fiber, protein, and vitamin B12.
Another advantage of oat milk is that it’s easily accessible and available at most grocery stores.
You can also make your oat milk at home with simple ingredients. Combine rolled oats and water in a blender to make oat milk at home and blend until smooth.
Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove pulp or solids. Your homemade oat milk is now ready to use in your favorite recipes!
Overall, oat milk is among the delicious and nutritious substitutes for evaporated milk.
It’s versatile, easily accessible, and provides a creamy texture without the added fat and calories. Try it in your next recipe and see how it compares to evaporated milk.
15. Flax Milk
Flax milk is one of the great dairy-free substitutes for evaporated milk.
It is made by blending flax seeds and water, resulting in a nutty, slightly sweet milk alternative.
Flax milk is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids essential for a healthy heart.
To use flax milk as a substitute for evaporated milk, you can follow a 1:1 ratio.
However, remember that flax milk is thinner than evaporated milk, so you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly.
For example, if you are making a custard or pudding, you may need to add a thickener like cornstarch or flour to get the right consistency.
Flax milk works well in most baking recipes, especially those for a liquid ingredient. You can also use it as a creamer in coffee or tea or as a base for smoothies and shakes.
Overall, flax milk is a healthy and versatile substitute for evaporated milk. Its nutty flavor and creamy texture make it a great addition to many recipes.
Give it a try the next time you run out of evaporated milk!
