Substitute For Heavy Cream: Top 14 Picks
Are you looking for a substitute for heavy cream that doesn’t affect the flavor and texture of your dish? Do you need something light and airy to add to your cake recipe? If so, then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we explore some of the alternatives available if you’re in need of an alternative to heavy cream.
Whether it be due to dietary restrictions or personal preference, there are several options that can help fulfill all your baking needs without compromising on taste or nutrition. Keep reading for our guide on how to find just the perfect substitute for heavy cream!
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What Is Heavy Cream?
Heavy cream, also known as heavy whipped cream, is a delicious dairy product that’s loved by food enthusiasts and chefs alike. It’s the rich, high-fat layer skimmed off the top of fresh milk before it’s homogenized.
With a milk fat content of about 36-40%, heavy cream is thicker and creamier than regular milk, making it perfect for whipping into soft peaks for desserts or adding a velvety texture to savory dishes.
So, whether you’re baking a decadent cake or cooking creamy pasta, heavy cream can be your secret ingredient to make your dish extra special!
What Are The Reasons To Substitute Heavy Cream?
There are several reasons why you might want to substitute heavy cream in your recipes:
Dietary Restrictions
Heavy cream is rich in fat and calories, so if you want to lose weight or follow a low-fat diet, you might want to find an alternative.
Lactose Intolerance/Allergies
Some people are allergic to dairy products or are lactose intolerant. In such cases, using a non-dairy alternative can be helpful.
Veganism
If you follow a vegan diet, you’ll need to substitute heavy cream with a plant-based option since it’s an animal product.
Availability
Sometimes, you might simply run out of heavy cream, or it may not be available at your local grocery store. In such cases, having a substitute on hand can save your recipe.
Health Reasons
Some people might avoid heavy cream due to cholesterol or other health concerns.
Remember that the best substitute will depend on the specific recipe and what the heavy cream is being used for. For example, in some recipes, you might be able to use milk and butter as a substitute, while in others, coconut cream or soy-based creamer might work better.
14 Best Substitutes For Heavy Cream
When it comes to finding a substitute for heavy cream, there are numerous options you can consider. From dairy-based alternatives to plant-based solutions, these heavy cream substitutes can work well in various recipes:
1. Coconut Cream
Coconut cream stands out as an excellent substitute for heavy cream, particularly for those seeking dairy-free or vegan alternatives. Rich in fats and bearing a thick consistency, it’s comparable to heavy cream, making it a versatile ingredient in various recipes.
Whether you’re whipping up creamy soups, baking recipes, or creating flavorful sauces, coconut cream can seamlessly take the place of heavy cream. But do note it imparts a distinct coconut flavor that can subtly alter the taste profile of your dish. So, if you’re open to a tropical twist in your meals, this heavy cream substitute could be your go-to!
Not only is it a healthier option with fewer calories and fats, but its creamy texture also helps achieve the desired richness in recipes, just like heavy cream. Start with full-fat coconut milk and use the thick coconut cream that is found at the top of the can for best results.
2. Milk & Butter
If you’re in need of a heavy cream substitute, combining milk and butter can be a quick and easy solution. This mixture is a particularly good match for heavy whipping cream in various cooking and baking recipes, thanks to its similar fat content.
To make this substitute, melt unsalted butter and let it cool before blending it with fresh milk. Opting for whole milk will yield a creamier texture, but skim milk is a viable option for those seeking a lower-calorie alternative.
While the flavor may not be identical to heavy cream, this blend of melted and cooled butter with milk can add a rich depth to soups and sauces. However, due to its slightly different consistency, it may not whip into a fluffy topping like heavy cream. Regardless, this substitute is a practical choice when you’re out of heavy cream
3. Evaporated Milk
Evaporated milk emerges as a fantastic substitute for heavy cream, especially in recipes that call for the latter as a liquid ingredient. This pantry staple can be used in equal amounts as a heavy cream substitute, making it a convenient option for most recipes.
Due to its process of having at least half the water content removed, evaporated milk brings a more concentrated and slightly caramelized flavor to your dishes, adding a unique depth to baked goods, soups, and sauces. While it won’t whip up like heavy cream, it’s perfect for enriching your recipes with a creamy, velvety texture.
4. Half-And-Half And Butter
Half-and-half paired with butter is a great heavy cream substitute, offering a similar texture and taste that work well in most recipes. Half-and-half, which is essentially light cream made from half whole milk and half cream, already contains a decent fat percentage.
When you add melted butter into the mix, the fat content increases, mirroring the richness of heavy cream. This combination is great for both cooking and baking, where heavy cream is usually required. However, it’s worth noting that while this substitute can provide the creaminess needed in soups, sauces, or baked goods, it may not whip into stiff peaks like heavy cream does.
So, if your recipe requires whipped cream, you might need to explore other alternatives. Nevertheless, for most culinary adventures, half-and-half and butter could be your go-to substitute for heavy cream.
5. Greek Yogurt And Milk
If you’re looking for a healthier substitute for heavy cream, combining equal parts Greek yogurt and milk may be the solution you’re looking for. Greek yogurt is known for its creamy and thick consistency and has a tangy taste, which can be toned down by adding milk.
This combination can work wonders in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet, where heavy cream’s rich flavor and texture are needed. The reason why this combination is an excellent substitute for heavy cream is that Greek yogurt has significantly fewer calories and is packed with protein, making it a healthier option.
Impressively, this substitute works wonders in savory soups, casseroles, dips, and sauces, as well as desserts like cakes, muffins, and ice cream.
6. Sour Cream
Sour cream can be a fantastic substitute for heavy cream in various recipes due to its high-fat content, which sits around 20%. This makes it a suitable choice for introducing creaminess into savory dishes like casseroles, soups or sauces.
It works well because the rich, tangy flavor of sour cream can add a unique touch to your meals without significantly altering the dish’s overall taste. Plus, it’s an easy swap – you can substitute heavy cream with the same amount of sour cream in recipes.
This means that if a recipe requires only one cup of heavy cream, then one cup of sour cream can be used instead. It’s also worth noting that sour cream can serve as a creamy topping for desserts and baked goods, adding a dash of indulgence to your sweet treats.
7. Cottage Cheese And Milk
The combination of cottage cheese and milk is one of the best heavy cream substitutes available for the health-conscious or those watching their calorie intake. While the taste is slightly tangy, the consistency is incredibly creamy, adding richness and texture to any dish.
Cottage cheese is a great substitute for heavy cream as it contains lower fat and calories but is still high in protein and calcium. This combination is perfect in recipes such as casseroles, soups, and sauces. Don’t be afraid to try it in your coffee or tea as well for a flavorful creamer alternative.
8. Whole Milk + Cornstarch
Did you know that you can use a combination of whole milk and cornstarch as a heavy cream substitute? It’s a great option if you’re looking for a lower-fat alternative or if you don’t have heavy cream on hand.
The taste and texture of this substitute can be very similar to heavy cream, and it can be used in a variety of ways, such as in baking recipes or as a topping for desserts. The reason this combination works is because the cornstarch helps thicken the milk to give it a creamier texture.
It’s easy to make your own substitute by whisking together one cup of whole milk and one tablespoon of cornstarch, which can replace one cup of heavy cream in recipes.
9. Cream Cheese
When it comes to finding substitutes for heavy cream, cream cheese is a fantastic option that often goes overlooked. Cream cheese provides a tangy twist and a luxuriously smooth texture that can enhance both sweet and savory dishes.
It’s typically made from whole milk and cream, which makes it an excellent substitute for heavy whipping cream in many recipes. The dense, creamy consistency of cream cheese makes it perfect for adding richness to baked goods such as cheesecakes or for creating a creamy topping for your favorite desserts.
Plus, if you’re stirring it into a hot recipe, it can be used as is, just like you would with heavy cream.
10. Plant-Based Milk & Olive Oil
Looking for a vegan heavy cream substitute that won’t compromise on taste? Look no further than plant-based milk and olive oil! Soy milk, almond milk, oat milk, and cashew milk all work beautifully as alternatives to heavy cream.
Not only do they provide a similar creamy texture, but they’re also much healthier than heavy cream. Plant-based milks have less fat and calories, making them a great option for those on a vegan diet or trying to reduce their overall calorie intake.
Plant-based oils, such as coconut oil, can also be used to increase the richness and depth of dishes. Whether you’re using it in soups, sauces, or desserts, you won’t be disappointed with these vegan alternatives.
11. Tofu + Plant-Based Milk
For those seeking a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream, a combination of tofu and plant-based milk can be a fantastic alternative.
The high protein content of tofu, when blended with soy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk, creates a vegan-friendly substitute that reminds of the texture and creaminess of heavy cream. This mixture is particularly useful in any baking recipe, adding a rich and velvety touch to your favorite dishes.
Whether you’re using tofu and soy milk for its subtle sweetness or almond milk for its nutty flavor, the versatility of this combination ensures it can be tailored to your taste preference. Plus, it’s not just suitable for vegans – anyone looking to reduce their dairy intake can benefit from this substitution.
12. Cashew Cream
Cashew cream is a remarkable substitute for heavy cream, especially for those seeking a dairy-free alternative. Made with a simple blend of cashews and water, this rich, creamy concoction has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that can complement an array of dishes.
The fat content in cashews contributes to the cream’s lush texture, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary creations. It can be used in a variety of cooking and baking applications, from enhancing the richness of soups and sauces to serving as a delightful whipped cream on top of your favorite desserts.
Plus, it’s not just about the taste – cashew cream is also a healthier option, offering a good dose of nutrients while keeping the calories lower than traditional heavy cream.
13. Crème Fraîche
Crème Fraîche is a fantastic substitute for heavy cream in all kinds of dishes. This versatile ingredient has a slightly tangy flavor that adds a unique twist to whatever you’re cooking. One of the best things about using Crème Fraîche in place of heavy cream is that it’s lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier option.
And because it’s thicker than sour cream, it won’t curdle or separate as easily when heated. You can use Crème Fraîche in all kinds of recipes, from savory sauces to sweet desserts, and it’s especially great in creamy soups, stews, and casseroles.
14. Heavy Cream Powder
Heavy cream powder, made of sweet cream solids that form when heavy cream is dehydrated, is an excellent substitute for traditional heavy cream.
This versatile ingredient can be used one-for-one in any recipe once reconstituted, offering a convenient and shelf-stable alternative. The taste of the heavy cream powder is similar to that of heavy cream, bringing a rich, creamy flavor to your dishes.
It’s an ideal choice for recipes that require high-fat content, such as creamy sauces, soups, and baked goods. So, if you’re looking for a heavy cream substitute that’s easy to store and use, the heavy cream powder could be just the ticket!
What To Make With Heavy Cream?
These recipes are a great way to use up any leftover heavy cream you might have:
- Beef Stroganoff: A hearty, comforting dish made with beef and mushrooms in a creamy sauce. Heavy cream adds a luxurious touch. Get our Beef Stroganoff Recipe here!
- Creamy Lemon Chicken Legs: This tangy and creamy chicken dish will be a hit at your dinner table. Heavy cream helps create a velvety sauce. Learn how to make Creamy Lemon Chicken Legs here.
- Instant Pot Tortellini: A quick, easy pasta dish with a creamy sauce, thanks to the addition of heavy cream. Get the recipe for Instant Pot Tortenllini today.
- Creamy Lemon Instant Pot Chicken Breast: This dish combines the tanginess of lemon with the richness of heavy cream. You can find our best recipe for Creamy Lemon Instant Pot Chicken Breast here!
- Creamy Chicken Fajita Soup: A fusion of Mexican flavors and creamy soup, made extra rich with heavy cream. Get the recipe for Chicken Fajita Soup here.
- Instant Pot Potato Soup Recipe: A comforting, creamy soup that’s perfect for cold days. Heavy cream gives it a velvety finish. Learn how to make Instant Pot Potato Soup in your own kitchen!
So, What To Substitute For Heavy Cream?
In conclusion, many great substitutes for heavy cream are available to suit various needs, from vegan and dairy-free options to lower-fat alternatives.
Whether you’re looking for a flavorful creamer alternative or a healthier option, these substitutes provide tasty and rich results that won’t compromise on flavor. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients — you might be surprised how delicious your dishes can turn out!
