The Dairy Dilemma: Why Traditional Double Cream is Not Vegan
Traditional double cream, a staple in many kitchens, is a dairy product by definition. It is the high-butterfat layer skimmed from the top of raw cow's milk and processed, boasting a fat content of at least 48%. Its rich, thick texture is what makes it so versatile for whipping, pouring, and cooking. Because it is derived from an animal source, it is inherently not vegan. For individuals following a plant-based diet, replicating this richness and versatility is key to adapting recipes without compromising on texture or flavor.
Understanding the Ingredients
The ingredients in traditional double cream are simple: just milk. The high fat content comes from the separation of butterfat from the rest of the milk. Understanding this composition is the first step toward finding suitable plant-based replacements, which rely on high-fat ingredients from non-animal sources to achieve a similar mouthfeel and performance.
Excellent Vegan Double Cream Alternatives
The market for vegan alternatives has expanded dramatically, offering both convenient pre-made products and accessible, homemade solutions. The right choice depends on your specific recipe and desired outcome.
Store-Bought Options for Convenience
For those who prefer a ready-to-use solution, several brands now offer excellent vegan double cream alternatives. These products are formulated to mimic the properties of dairy cream, making them suitable for whipping, cooking, and pouring.
- Flora Plant Double Cream Alternative: This is a popular and reliable choice. It is 100% plant-based, made with a blend of lentil protein, coconut fat, and rapeseed oil. It is suitable for both cooking and whipping, performing well in both hot and cold applications.
- Elmlea Plant Double Cream Alternative: Another widely available option, Elmlea's plant-based cream is made from a blend of lentil protein and vegetable oils. It's designed to be used in the same way as dairy double cream—poured over desserts, whipped, or stirred into sauces.
- Country Crock Plant Cream: This product is known for being a reliable substitute, with users reporting good whipping results and a creamy consistency.
DIY Vegan Double Cream Recipes
Making your own vegan cream at home is a simple and cost-effective way to control ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives. The key is choosing the right base for your intended use.
Coconut Cream
Full-fat canned coconut milk is arguably the most straightforward vegan alternative, especially for whipping. The process is simple: chill a can of full-fat coconut milk (or coconut cream) in the refrigerator overnight without shaking it. The thick, creamy layer will rise to the top and solidify, separating from the liquid. Scoop this hardened cream into a chilled bowl and whip it with a mixer until it forms soft to stiff peaks, just like dairy cream. While excellent for desserts and toppings, it does impart a slight coconut flavor, which may not be desirable in all dishes.
Cashew Cream
For a neutral-flavored cream, cashews are a fantastic base. To make a thick, double-cream-like consistency, simply soak raw, unsalted cashews in hot water for about 15-30 minutes (or longer for a standard blender). Drain and rinse the cashews, then blend them with a minimal amount of fresh water or plant-based milk until completely smooth. The less liquid you use, the thicker your cream will be. Cashew cream is perfect for enriching savory sauces, soups, and pasta dishes.
Silken Tofu Cream
Silken tofu offers a high-protein, low-fat alternative that works beautifully for creating creamy sauces, dressings, and desserts where whipping isn't required. Simply blend silken tofu with a small amount of plant-based milk until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Its neutral taste allows other flavors to shine through, making it highly versatile for various recipes.
How to Use Vegan Double Cream Alternatives
When using vegan creams, understanding their properties is crucial for success.
Whipping vs. Cooking
- For Whipping: Canned coconut cream is the most reliable option for creating whipped toppings. Some store-bought varieties, like Flora and Elmlea, are also specifically formulated for whipping. Homemade cashew cream generally does not whip well.
- For Cooking: Both homemade cashew and tofu creams are excellent for cooking. They add richness and a creamy texture to soups, sauces, and curries without splitting when heated. Most store-bought options are also designed for cooking. For recipes requiring a neutral flavor, cashew cream or refined coconut oil-based creams are best.
Comparison Table of Vegan Double Cream Alternatives
| Alternative | Flavor Profile | Whipping Ability | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Fat Coconut Cream | Noticeable coconut flavor | Excellent | Desserts, whipped cream topping, curries |
| Cashew Cream | Neutral, slightly nutty | Does not whip | Savory sauces, creamy soups, baking |
| Silken Tofu Cream | Neutral | Does not whip | Creamy dressings, mousses, thickening sauces |
| Store-Bought Cream (e.g., Flora) | Neutral | Excellent | All-purpose, cooking, whipping, pouring |
| Soy Milk + Oil | Neutral (depending on oil) | Does not whip | Sauces and thickening recipes |
Nutritional Profile: Dairy vs. Vegan Cream
From a nutritional perspective, vegan double cream alternatives offer distinct advantages. Traditional double cream is high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Plant-based creams, especially those made from cashews or tofu, are often lower in saturated fat and completely cholesterol-free. Cashew cream also adds a boost of protein and healthy unsaturated fats from the nuts, while tofu provides a significant protein content. While some store-bought vegan creams can still be high in fat, they replace dairy fat with plant-based oils, which many people prefer.
Conclusion: Your Creamy Vegan Journey
So, can vegans have double cream? The answer is no, not the dairy version. However, with the increasing availability and versatility of vegan alternatives, the real question is how you want to achieve that classic creamy texture. Whether you opt for the convenience of store-bought brands like Flora or Elmlea, whip up some homemade coconut cream for a dessert, or create a savory cashew or tofu-based sauce, a satisfying and delicious plant-based option exists for every culinary purpose. The journey to a plant-based diet doesn't mean sacrificing your favorite rich and creamy dishes, but rather discovering new, exciting, and ethical ways to prepare them.
For more detailed vegan cooking tips, check out this excellent resource on homemade heavy cream alternatives from Eating by Elaine.
