Does pumpkin pie have condensed milk?

November 9, 2025 •

2 min read

While the classic Libby's recipe uses evaporated milk, several popular and easy versions of pumpkin pie actually call for sweetened condensed milk. The answer to whether condensed milk is an ingredient simply depends on the specific recipe you are following.

Quick Summary

Some pumpkin pie recipes use condensed milk for a sweeter, richer texture, while others rely on evaporated milk and sugar. Condensed milk versions are often simpler, combining sweetener and liquid in one ingredient, while evaporated milk recipes produce a lighter filling.

Key Points

Two Primary Methods: Pumpkin pie can be made using either sweetened condensed milk or unsweetened evaporated milk, each yielding a different result.
Condensed Milk Advantages: Using sweetened condensed milk simplifies the recipe by combining the sweetener and liquid, resulting in a richer, denser, and sweeter filling.
Evaporated Milk Process: Traditional recipes, like Libby's, use evaporated milk and require adding separate sugar for a more controlled sweetness and lighter texture.
Direct Substitution Risk: You cannot simply swap condensed milk for evaporated milk and vice-versa, as the recipe's sugar content and liquid ratio are specifically formulated for one type.
Setting Mechanism: The pie filling sets because of the eggs coagulating during baking, forming a custard, regardless of which type of milk is used.
Choose Your Preference: Select the condensed milk method for a sweeter, creamier pie or the evaporated milk method for a classic, more customizable option.
Easy Preparation: Condensed milk recipes are often very easy to prepare, making them a great option for beginner bakers.

Pumpkin pie is a quintessential dessert, particularly during the holiday season, but not all pumpkin pies are created equally. The creamy, flavorful filling can be achieved in more than one way, primarily differing based on the type of milk used. A key point of confusion for many bakers is the use of condensed milk versus evaporated milk. In short, yes, some pumpkin pie recipes do have condensed milk, but it is not a universal ingredient across all recipes, especially classic versions.

The Condensed Milk Version: Creamy and Sweet

Recipes that incorporate sweetened condensed milk are often celebrated for their rich and creamy texture. This ingredient is cow's milk from which water has been removed, with a significant amount of sugar added, resulting in a thick, sticky, and very sweet liquid. Using it simplifies the recipe significantly because it combines the dairy and sweetener into a single component. The high sugar content and caramelization can lend a distinct sweetness and sometimes a caramel-like note. Its high fat and sugar contribute to a dense, silky, and creamy custard. This method is often seen as an easy option, requiring fewer ingredients. A typical recipe often includes pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and spices.

The Classic Version: Evaporated Milk and Sugar

The famous Libby's recipe uses evaporated milk, which is unsweetened. This requires the addition of separate sugar. This method allows for more control over sweetness and can offer a more classic pumpkin flavor. Pies made this way tend to have a slightly lighter texture than those made with condensed milk. This traditional approach also offers flexibility in customizing the sugar type.

Can You Substitute Evaporated Milk for Condensed Milk?

Direct substitution is not recommended as it would significantly impact sweetness and setting. Each type of milk is used in recipes specifically formulated for its unique properties.

Comparison: Condensed Milk vs. Evaporated Milk


Feature	Condensed Milk Pie	Evaporated Milk Pie
Sweetness	Very sweet, with caramel notes	Can be adjusted, classic pumpkin flavor
Texture	Dense, silky, and rich	Lighter and slightly more airy
Convenience	Highly convenient, fewer ingredients to measure	Requires separate sugar measurement
Setting	Reliably sets well due to high sugar content	Sets reliably when baked correctly
Recipe Control	Less customization for sweetness level	More control over sweetness and flavor

What Makes a Pumpkin Pie Filling Set?

The pie filling sets due to the coagulation of egg proteins during baking, forming a custard. This process is similar to quiche. Overbaking can cause cracking, while underbaking leads to an unset center. Both milk types rely on this principle, but affect the final texture and sweetness.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect Pumpkin Pie

The choice between condensed and evaporated milk depends on desired taste, texture, and convenience. Condensed milk is ideal for a simple, creamy, and sweet pie. Evaporated milk is suited for those preferring to control sweetness and a classic flavor. Both methods result in a delicious pie. For a condensed milk recipe, see the Perfect Pumpkin Pie from Allrecipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Evaporated milk is milk with about 60% of its water removed and is unsweetened. Sweetened condensed milk is also milk with water removed but has a large amount of sugar added, making it thick, sweet, and syrupy.

No, you cannot directly substitute condensed milk for evaporated milk. Condensed milk is pre-sweetened, so using it in a recipe that calls for evaporated milk and separate sugar will result in an overly sweet pie.

Sweetened condensed milk generally makes a pumpkin pie filling richer, denser, and creamier due to its high sugar and fat content.

The most traditional or classic pumpkin pie recipes, including the famous Libby's version, call for evaporated milk and granulated sugar.

A pumpkin pie typically cracks when it is overbaked. The custard is cooked too much, causing it to shrink and pull away from the crust, resulting in a crack down the center.

Yes, you can. Substitutions like heavy cream, a mix of milk and cream, or dairy-free alternatives can be used, but may require adjustments to other ingredients to ensure the pie sets correctly.

The main benefit is simplicity and convenience. A recipe using sweetened condensed milk typically has fewer ingredients and steps, as the sweetness and thick liquid are combined in one can.