Do Creams Have Vegan Options? A Complete Guide to Dairy-Free Alternatives

According to a 2024 study on plant-based dairy alternatives, the market is rapidly expanding, offering consumers more choices than ever before. For those asking, 'Do creams have vegan options?' the answer is a definitive yes, with many varieties available for both culinary and dessert applications.

Quick Summary

This guide explores the wide range of vegan and plant-based cream alternatives available for all your culinary needs. It covers popular store-bought brands, simple homemade recipes using ingredients like cashews and coconut, and provides details on how to use these substitutes for everything from soups to desserts.

Key Points

• Yes, vegan creams exist: There is a wide variety of dairy-free cream alternatives available, both in stores and as homemade options.

• Diverse ingredient bases: Vegan creams are made from plants like coconut, cashews, oats, and soy, each offering a unique flavor and texture.

• Versatility for cooking and baking: Plant-based creams can replace dairy cream in most recipes, from savory soups and sauces to sweet desserts.

• Coconut cream for whipping: Canned full-fat coconut cream is the most common ingredient for creating a stable vegan whipped topping.

• Cashew cream is a versatile thickener: Blended raw cashews create a neutral-flavored, silky-smooth cream ideal for thickening savory dishes.

• Understand the differences: Vegan creams have different nutritional profiles and performance characteristics than dairy cream; for example, some won't whip, while others are lower in fat.

• Homemade is an option: You can make your own cost-effective and additive-free cream substitutes at home using simple ingredients.

Understanding the Rise of Vegan Cream

The increasing availability and quality of plant-based products have made transitioning to a vegan or dairy-free diet simpler and more delicious. The old challenge of finding a suitable cream substitute is now a thing of the past. From rich, heavy cooking creams to fluffy, whipped dessert toppings, the market offers a versatile array of vegan options derived from ingredients such as soy, oats, coconuts, and cashews. These products are formulated to mimic the texture, richness, and performance of traditional dairy cream, opening up a world of possibilities for vegan home cooks and bakers.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Vegan Creams

When it comes to sourcing vegan cream, you have two main options: buying a ready-made product or making your own from scratch. Both have distinct advantages depending on your needs for convenience, ingredient control, and flavor profile.

Store-Bought Vegan Creams

• Advantages: Convenient, consistent in quality, and often specifically formulated for whipping or cooking. Popular brands like Oatly, Alpro, and Flora offer various plant-based cream alternatives.
• Disadvantages: Can be more expensive, and may contain stabilizers, sugars, or palm oil, which some people prefer to avoid.

Homemade Vegan Creams

• Advantages: You control all the ingredients, making it ideal for managing allergens, added sugars, or avoiding certain additives. Homemade options can also be more cost-effective.
• Disadvantages: Requires more preparation time and can be less consistent in texture, especially when it comes to whipping.

Popular Vegan Cream Alternatives

There are numerous ingredients you can use to create vegan cream, each with its own unique flavor and texture profile.

• Coconut Cream: A classic for a reason, full-fat coconut cream from a can creates a rich, thick cream that can even be whipped into a fluffy topping. Its distinct coconut flavor works perfectly in curries and desserts but may not be suitable for all savory dishes. The key to whipping is chilling the can overnight to separate the solid cream from the liquid.
• Cashew Cream: Made by soaking raw cashews and blending them with water, this versatile cream is revered for its neutral, mild flavor and incredibly silky-smooth texture. It is an excellent dairy-free substitute for heavy cream in savory applications like soups, sauces, and pasta dishes.
• Oat Cream: Readily available in most grocery stores, oat-based creams offer a subtle, neutral taste that is perfect for both sweet and savory recipes. They are great for adding creaminess to sauces, enriching soups, or pouring into coffee, though not all varieties are suitable for whipping.
• Soy Cream: A long-standing vegan option, soy cream is made from soybeans and can be used in a variety of dishes. Some store-bought versions are specifically designed for whipping.
• Silken Tofu: When blended with a little plant-based milk, silken tofu can create a rich, high-protein cream substitute that is perfect for thickening sauces and dressings. It has a neutral flavor and a beautifully smooth texture.

Comparison: Dairy Cream vs. Vegan Alternatives

Feature	Dairy Heavy Cream	Coconut Cream	Cashew Cream	Oat Cream	Silken Tofu Cream
Fat Content	Very High (min. 36%)	High (25-35%)	Varies (DIY)	Medium	Low
Flavor Profile	Rich, milky, buttery	Coconut-forward	Neutral, nutty	Mild, neutral	Neutral
Best For Whipping?	Yes, excellent stability	Yes, but requires chilling	No, stays creamy but won't hold stiff peaks	Varies by brand	No, will not whip
Use in Savory Dishes?	Yes	Yes (especially curries)	Yes, very versatile	Yes, very versatile	Yes, great thickener
Use in Baking?	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes, especially for cheesecakes
Nutritional Notes	High in saturated fat, cholesterol	High in saturated fat	Source of healthy fats and protein	Lower in fat, often fortified	High in protein, low in fat

How to Use Vegan Creams Effectively

Using vegan creams can be a straightforward process, but understanding their specific properties is key to getting the best results. Here are some pointers:

1. For Whipped Toppings: If you need a light and fluffy topping for desserts like pies, cakes, or hot chocolate, canned full-fat coconut cream is your best bet. For a more reliable and less coconut-flavored option, many stores now carry dedicated vegan whipping creams from brands like Country Crock or Flora. A lesser-known but effective option is aquafaba (chickpea brine), which can be whipped into a meringue-like topping.
2. For Creamy Sauces and Soups: For savory dishes, cashew cream offers a rich, neutral flavor that won't interfere with other ingredients. Oat and soy creams are also excellent for thickening soups and pasta sauces. When heating, remember that plant-based creams can thicken quickly, so you may need to add extra liquid.
3. In Baking: Vegan creams can be used in baking to add moisture and richness. For example, cashew cream can form the base of a creamy filling or cheesecake. Blending plant-based milk with a fat like vegan butter can also create a dairy-free heavy cream substitute for baking.

Conclusion

Yes, creams have vegan options, and they have evolved far beyond the basic alternatives of a few years ago. With a plethora of store-bought and homemade varieties, you no longer have to compromise on taste, texture, or versatility. Whether you are looking for a rich and indulgent heavy cream for a savory dish or a light and airy whipped topping for a dessert, there is a plant-based cream alternative to suit your needs. The best option for you depends on your desired flavor, application, and preference for homemade versus store-bought. Exploring these alternatives can add exciting new dimensions to your vegan culinary adventures.

How to Make a Simple Cashew Cream

Making your own cashew cream is surprisingly simple and creates a versatile, creamy base for many recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw, unsalted cashews
• 1/2 to 1 cup water (depending on desired thickness)

Instructions:

1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours, or in boiling water for 30 minutes, to soften them.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews.
3. Combine the soaked cashews and 1/2 cup of fresh water in a high-speed blender.
4. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
5. Add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. For a thick heavy cream, use less water; for a pourable single cream, use more.
6. Season as desired for sweet or savory applications.

Homemade Whipped Coconut Cream

For a delicious, dairy-free whipped topping, full-fat coconut cream is the secret ingredient.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk or cream, chilled overnight
• 1-2 tbsp powdered sugar (or maple syrup)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Chill the can of coconut milk/cream in the refrigerator overnight without shaking it.
2. Place a mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for 15 minutes.
3. Carefully open the chilled can and scoop the thick cream from the top into the cold bowl. Leave the watery liquid behind.
4. Using a hand or stand mixer with the chilled whisk attachment, beat the coconut cream on high speed until soft peaks form.
5. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, and continue to whisk until stiff peaks form. Serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can vegan cream be whipped like dairy cream?

Yes, some vegan creams can be whipped, but it depends on the product. Full-fat canned coconut cream is the most reliable option for creating a stable whipped topping after being thoroughly chilled. Specialized store-bought whipping creams are also available, while cashew or tofu creams will not hold stiff peaks.

What is the best neutral-flavored vegan cream substitute?

For a neutral-flavored alternative, cashew cream is an excellent choice. When made from raw cashews and water, it has a mild taste that works well in both sweet and savory dishes without imparting a distinct nutty or coconut flavor. Oat and soy creams also tend to have a neutral profile.

Are store-bought vegan creams healthier than dairy cream?

The nutritional profile varies by brand and base ingredient. Many plant-based creams are lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than dairy cream. However, some may contain more additives, sugar, or sodium. Always check the nutrition label to make an informed choice.

What can I use vegan cream for?

You can use vegan cream in almost any application where you would use dairy cream. This includes making creamy soups, pasta sauces, curries, rich desserts, coffee creamers, or as a whipped topping.

How do you make vegan heavy cream at home?

A simple homemade vegan heavy cream can be made by blending raw, soaked cashews with water until smooth and thick. Another option is to blend a neutral plant-based milk, like oat or soy milk, with a melted fat like vegan butter or a neutral oil.

Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream for whipping?

You can, but it requires chilling a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight in the refrigerator. The thicker cream will rise to the top, allowing you to scoop it off and whip it, leaving the watery liquid behind. For best results, use a product specifically labeled coconut cream.

Is vegan cream suitable for those with nut allergies?

Many vegan creams are nut-free, with options made from soy, oats, or coconut. However, since cashew cream is a popular homemade option, it is crucial to check the ingredient list of any pre-packaged vegan cream to ensure it does not contain nuts if you have an allergy.