Evaporated Milk

Evaporated milk is a highly versatile dairy product made by removing about 60% of the water content from fresh milk. This process results in a creamy, slightly caramelized liquid with a richer flavor and thicker consistency than regular milk. Evaporated milk is unsweetened, making it perfect for both sweet and savory recipes—from classic custards and creamy soups to sauces, casseroles, and baked goods. It is shelf-stable and comes in convenient cans, making it a popular pantry staple for home cooks. When reconstituted with an equal amount of water, evaporated milk can also be used as a substitute for regular milk in many recipes, offering added richness and creaminess without the need for refrigeration until opened.

You can typically find evaporated milk in the baking aisle of most grocery stores. It is usually shelved alongside other canned milk products, such as sweetened condensed milk and powdered milk. Look for rows of cans labeled "Evaporated Milk," which are often grouped together by brand and size. The baking aisle is a great place to check because evaporated milk is a common ingredient in recipes for baked goods, desserts, and casseroles. If you don’t see it there, try looking near the coffee creamers or in the section with other shelf-stable dairy products. If you’re ever unsure, a store associate will be happy to point you in the right direction!