Exploring the Options: Do they make lactose-free heavy cream?

November 9, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Institutes of Health, a significant portion of the global population is lactose intolerant to some degree. For those who love the rich texture of cream but suffer from the symptoms of lactose malabsorption, the question inevitably arises: do they make lactose-free heavy cream? The good news is that both dairy-based and plant-based options are widely available to meet this dietary need.

Quick Summary

Yes, lactose-free heavy cream is produced by adding the enzyme lactase to dairy milk, which breaks down the lactose. For those avoiding all dairy, plant-based alternatives like coconut and cashew creams are excellent substitutes for cooking, baking, and even whipping.

Key Points

Lactose-Free is Not Dairy-Free: True lactose-free cream is a dairy product where the lactose sugar is broken down by the enzyme lactase, making it digestible for most with lactose intolerance.
Dairy-Free Means Plant-Based: Dairy-free alternatives, such as those from Silk or Califia Farms, are made from plant sources like coconut, soy, or oats and contain no dairy at all.
Store-Bought Options Exist: Several brands, including Natrel and Lactantia, produce lactose-free dairy heavy cream that can be whipped and used just like regular cream.
Versatile Homemade Alternatives: You can create your own heavy cream substitutes at home using ingredients like cashews, coconut milk, or by thickening plant-based milk with cornstarch.
Whipping Ability Varies: While lactose-free dairy cream whips identically to regular cream, the ability of plant-based options to hold stiff peaks depends on their fat content and chilling process.
Consider the Flavor Profile: When choosing a substitute, be mindful of the flavor it will impart. While cashew cream is neutral, coconut cream adds a distinct tropical taste.

The Surprising Answer: Yes, They Do!

For many years, finding an alternative to heavy cream was a challenge for individuals with lactose intolerance. Thankfully, food science has provided a direct solution. Lactose-free heavy cream is made from real dairy milk; however, a natural enzyme called lactase is added to the product. This enzyme breaks down the complex milk sugar, lactose, into two simpler, more easily digestible sugars: glucose and galactose. This process removes the source of digestive discomfort for many, while preserving the rich, creamy taste and texture of dairy. This method is a key differentiator from dairy-free alternatives, as it is still a genuine dairy product.

Lactose-Free Dairy vs. Dairy-Free Alternatives

Understanding the distinction between lactose-free dairy products and dairy-free alternatives is crucial for dietary needs. While lactose-free dairy is suitable for those with lactose intolerance, it is not appropriate for individuals with a milk protein allergy, as it still contains dairy protein. Plant-based, dairy-free alternatives, on the other hand, are suitable for vegans and those with milk allergies, as they are completely free of all dairy components. The right choice depends entirely on the specific dietary restriction.

A Guide to Store-Bought Options

True Lactose-Free Dairy Heavy Cream

Several brands now offer real dairy heavy whipping cream that has been treated with lactase. These products can be found in the dairy section of many major grocery stores, often alongside regular milk and cream products. Examples include Natrel and Lactantia, particularly in North American and European markets. These products are ideal for recipes that depend on the specific fat and protein structure of dairy for cooking or whipping.

Plant-Based Dairy-Free Heavy Cream Alternatives

For those who need to avoid dairy entirely, there is a wide range of plant-based products. These are not just for vegans; they are excellent choices for anyone with a dairy allergy or sensitivity.

Silk Dairy-Free Heavy Whipping Cream Alternative: A widely available option that is designed to whip and perform like traditional cream.
Califia Farms Heavy Whip Cream Dairy Free Substitute: Another plant-based option, often coconut-based, that can be used for cooking and whipping.
Country Crock Plant Cream: A versatile plant-based cream that is thick and works in many applications.
Coconut Cream: Canned, full-fat coconut milk contains a solid cream layer that can be scooped out and used as a rich, creamy substitute.

Versatile Homemade Heavy Cream Substitutes

When a specific store-bought option isn't available, or for those who prefer to make their own, several effective homemade substitutes can be created for various culinary needs. Here are a few options, each with a unique profile:

Cashew Cream: Made by blending soaked raw cashews with water until completely smooth, this alternative has a neutral flavor and thick consistency, making it ideal for both savory sauces and sweet desserts.
Full-Fat Coconut Milk/Cream: Simply chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight. The cream will rise to the top and can be scooped out to use as a rich cream substitute for sauces, curries, and whipped topping.
Soy Milk + Neutral Oil: For a simple cooking substitute, blend ⅔ cup of soy milk with ⅓ cup of a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. The resulting mixture adds richness and can be used in a 1:1 ratio for sauces.
Oat Milk + Cornstarch: A great option for thickening soups and sauces. Create a slurry by mixing 1 cup of oat milk with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, then stir into your dish while simmering.
Silken Tofu + Plant Milk: For creamy, pudding-like desserts or sauces, blend silken tofu with a small amount of plant milk until smooth. The result is a protein-rich, thick consistency.

Comparison of Cream Alternatives


Characteristic	Lactose-Free Dairy Cream	Coconut Cream	Cashew Cream
Taste Profile	Identical to regular dairy cream, perhaps slightly sweeter due to broken-down sugars.	Distinct coconut flavor, which may influence the final dish.	Very neutral, making it highly versatile for many recipes.
Whipping Capability	Whips to stiff peaks, similar to regular heavy cream.	Whips effectively when chilled, resulting in a slightly softer peak.	Whips less effectively than dairy, but can be used for creamy fillings.
Best For	All recipes requiring heavy cream, including baking, cooking, and whipping.	Desserts, curries, and sauces where coconut flavor is welcome.	Creamy soups, sauces, dressings, and many desserts.

Conclusion: A World of Options Awaits

Fortunately, the answer to the question, do they make lactose-free heavy cream, is a resounding yes. For those who can tolerate dairy but not lactose, enzyme-treated dairy cream is a perfect solution, allowing for the classic taste and performance of heavy cream in all applications. For individuals with a dairy protein allergy or following a vegan diet, the abundance of plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and cashew cream means no one has to miss out on rich, creamy dishes. By understanding the different types and their best uses, you can confidently explore a wide variety of recipes, ensuring your diet remains both delicious and comfortable.

Learn more about lactose intolerance and how to manage your symptoms by visiting the official website of the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, lactose-free heavy cream can be whipped just like regular heavy cream. Because it is a real dairy product with the same fat content, the whipping process and the results are identical.

Lactose-free cream is made from dairy milk but has the lactose removed via an enzyme, while dairy-free cream is made entirely from plant-based ingredients and contains no milk products at all.

For individuals with lactose intolerance, consuming lactose-free cream should not cause digestive side effects, as the difficult-to-digest lactose sugar has been broken down. It is important to note that this product still contains dairy proteins and is not suitable for those with milk allergies.

Coconut cream can be used as a 1:1 substitute for heavy cream in many recipes, particularly in curries and desserts. However, keep in mind that it will add a noticeable coconut flavor to your dish.

A simple homemade substitute can be made by combining ⅔ cup of full-fat plant-based milk (like soy or oat) with ⅓ cup of a neutral oil. Whisk the mixture well before adding it to your recipe.

Yes, cashew cream is an excellent, neutral-tasting alternative for savory dishes like soups and sauces. It provides a creamy, rich texture without overpowering the other flavors.

Specific lactose-free dairy heavy cream brands like Natrel and Lactantia are often available in the dairy aisle of major supermarkets, particularly in North America. You can also find some options on online retailers.