Dairy Product | Vegetarian

Carnation Milk

Bos taurus Allergens: Milk
Carnation Milk

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Western
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's Milk

What Is Carnation Milk?

A brand of unsweetened evaporated milk, a concentrated form of fresh milk with about 60% of its water removed.

"The creamy secret to countless classic recipes."

What Does Carnation Milk Taste Like?

Creamy, slightly caramelized, rich, subtly sweet

Taste
Creamy, Milky, Slightly Sweet
Texture
Viscous, Smooth, Creamy
Aroma
Milky, Cooked Sugar
Acidity
Low

Technical Metrics

Culinary Science

High protein content (casein) makes it resistant to curdling in acidic dishes.

Primary Use

Adds richness to soups, sauces, desserts, and coffee; can be whipped when chilled.

Storage Tip

Unopened cans last 1-2 years; refrigerate opened cans and use within 5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Per 2 tbsp (30g)
Calories135 kcal
Total Fat7.5 g
Saturated Fat4.5 g
Trans Fat0.3 g
Cholesterol25 mg
Protein7 g
Total Carbohydrate10 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars10 g
Calcium250 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium350 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a quick, rich gravy or cream sauce, use evaporated milk; its stability prevents curdling in high heat applications.

Carnation Milk Substitutes & Ratios

The best substitute for Carnation Milk is Evaporated Milk (generic), used at a 1:1 ratio. Identical product, perfect for direct substitution in any recipe.

Substitutes for Carnation Milk with ratios
Substitute Ratio Best for
Evaporated Milk (generic) Best 1:1 Identical product, perfect for direct substitution in any recipe.
Heavy Cream 1:1 For richness and thickness, but higher fat and needs slight dilution for liquid volume.
Whole Milk + Butter 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp butter = 1 cup evaporated milk A good pantry staple solution, adds fat and richness.
Coconut Milk (full-fat) 1:1 Dairy-free alternative, adds similar creaminess but with coconut flavor.

How to Choose & Store Carnation Milk

Check expiration dates and look for dent-free cans to ensure product integrity.

What Pairs Well With Carnation Milk?

  • Pies
  • Sauces
  • Coffee
  • Casseroles
  • Desserts

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Carnation Milk taste like?

Creamy, slightly caramelized, rich, subtly sweet Milky, Cooked Sugar

What is a good substitute for Carnation Milk?

The best substitute is Evaporated Milk (generic) (1:1). Identical product, perfect for direct substitution in any recipe.

How do you choose and store Carnation Milk?

Check expiration dates and look for dent-free cans to ensure product integrity.

Related Dairy Product Ingredients

Need a substitute for Carnation Milk right now, or a recipe that uses it? Ask Sous, your AI sous-chef.