Sweetened Condensed Milk Vs Evaporated Milk Pumpkin Pie
The holiday season is here, and nothing screams Thanksgiving more than a classic pumpkin pie. But when it comes to making the perfect pie, the debate between using sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk as a key ingredient is a topic that has been ongoing for years. In this article, we will explore the differences between sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk and which one is better for making pumpkin pie.
What is Sweetened Condensed Milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is a thick, sweet syrup made by removing most of the water from milk and adding sugar. It has a caramelized flavor and a thick consistency that makes it perfect for use in desserts. It is commonly used in making fudge, caramel, and of course, pumpkin pie.
What is Evaporated Milk?
Evaporated milk is similar to sweetened condensed milk, but it does not contain added sugar. It is made by removing about 60% of the water from regular milk. Evaporated milk has a creamy texture and a slightly caramelized flavor, making it a popular ingredient in baking and cooking.
The Difference between Sweetened Condensed Milk and Evaporated Milk
The main difference between sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk is the amount of sugar they contain. Sweetened condensed milk contains added sugar, while evaporated milk does not. Sweetened condensed milk is also much thicker and sweeter than evaporated milk.
When it comes to cooking, sweetened condensed milk is better for making desserts that require a thick, sweet consistency, while evaporated milk is better for savory dishes that require a creamy, rich texture.
Which is Better for Making Pumpkin Pie?
Both sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk can be used in making pumpkin pie. However, most traditional pumpkin pie recipes call for evaporated milk.
Evaporated milk gives the pumpkin pie a creamy texture without making it too sweet. The slightly caramelized flavor of evaporated milk also complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
However, if you prefer a sweeter and thicker pumpkin pie, you can use sweetened condensed milk instead. Keep in mind that using sweetened condensed milk will make the pumpkin pie much sweeter and thicker than using evaporated milk.
Conclusion
When it comes to making pumpkin pie, both sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk can be used. However, most traditional pumpkin pie recipes call for evaporated milk because of its creamy texture and slightly caramelized flavor. If you prefer a sweeter and thicker pumpkin pie, you can use sweetened condensed milk instead. But remember, using sweetened condensed milk will make the pumpkin pie much sweeter and thicker than using evaporated milk.