Heavy cream is a kitchen staple that imparts richness and creaminess to a wide range of dishes, including sauces, stews, and desserts. However, there are instances when you may not have this ingredient, or you may be searching for a lighter or dairy-free substitute.
The good news is that a variety of substitutes can replicate the texture and flavor of heavy cream in most recipes.
This article examines various substitutes for heavy cream, discussing their culinary applications, nutritional profiles, and how to use them effectively in cooking.
What Can Be Used Instead Of Heavy Cream?
Substituting for heavy cream depends on the recipe and what role the heavy cream plays in it. Here are some alternatives:
For Cooking and Baking:
- Milk and Butter: Combine 3/4 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of melted unadulterated butter. This mixture will not whip like heavy cream, but it substitutes well in cooking and baking applications.
- Half-and-Half: Half-and-Half is lighter than heavy cream and can be used in cookery and baking. It will not mix up the same, however.
- Evaporated Milk: This can be used as a 1:1 substitute in cookery and baking but cannot be whipped.
- Coconut Cream: Coconut Cream is an excellent dairy-free substitute, particularly for desserts. It also can be pounded.
- Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthful option that complements both sweet and savory dishes. You may need to thin it out with milk or water because it is denser.
- Sour Cream: It can be used in cookery and baking, but its flavor is tangier.
- Cream Cheese: Useful in recipes where the creaminess is more essential than the amount of liquid, such as frostings and fillings.
- Cottage Cheese: Blended until homogeneous, this can be used as a substitute in some recipes, but the texture and taste will be different.
- Silken Tofu: Blended silken tofu is an excellent dairy-free, low-fat substitute. It is most effective in savory dishes or smoothies.
- Cashew Cream: As a dairy-free alternative, soak cashews and blend them until smooth to make cashew cream. This complements both sweet and savory dishes well.
For Whipping:
- Chilled Coconut Milk: The solid part of a can of full-fat coconut milk can be whipped like heavy cream.
- Aquafaba: The liquid from a can of chickpeas, known as aquafaba, can be whisked and used as a vegan alternative to whipped cream.
- Mascarpone: This soft Italian cheese can be blended and used as a substitute, although it is significantly richer.
- Chilled Evaporated Milk: Very cold evaporated milk can be whipped, although it may not retain its shape, as well as heavy cream.
For Coffee and Beverages:
- Milk Froth: Skim or low-fat milk can be frothed to create a creamy consistency.
- Almond Milk, Soy Milk, Oat Milk: Non-dairy milks such as almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk can also be used, but their texture will not be as velvety.
- Flavored Coffee Creamers: Flavored Coffee Creamers are offered in both dairy and non-dairy varieties.
- Vanilla or Almond Extract: A few teaspoons of vanilla or almond extract can add flavor to less creamy milk.
Remember, the best substitute will depend on what you’re making and your dietary needs. Always consider how the substitute will affect the taste, texture, and appearance of your final dish.
What Is The Same As Heavy Cream?
There is no flawless substitute for the rich fat content and texture of heavy cream, but there are several alternatives. A common alternative is a concoction of milk and melted butter (approximately three-quarters of a cup of milk and one-fourth of a cup of butter for one cup of heavy cream).
Half-and-half can also be used, but it has less flavor. For non-dairy alternatives, coconut cream or blended, steeped cashew cream may be used. Note that these substitutions may affect the flavor or texture of the dish.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re out of heavy cream, attempting to reduce calories, or adhering to dietary restrictions, there are a number of suitable alternatives. Options such as half-and-half, coconut cream, or even a combination of milk and butter can provide the desired consistency and flavor.
The key to a successful substitution is comprehending the recipe’s specific requirements and selecting a substitute that meets them.
Read More: What Can I Make With Egg Whites?