How much protein is in single cream? A nutritional guide

October 20, 2025 •

3 min read

Single cream, a dairy product made from the high-fat portion of milk, contains a modest amount of protein, typically around 3.3 grams per 100ml. While it's not a primary protein source, this small contribution adds to the overall nutritional value of recipes in which it is used. This guide breaks down the precise protein content in single cream and contextualizes its role in a balanced diet.

Quick Summary

An analysis of the protein content in single cream, which is not a primary source. This article also details its overall nutritional value, fat content, and compares it to other dairy items. It provides a comprehensive breakdown for those interested in their macronutrient intake from dairy products.

Key Points

Low Protein Content: Single cream contains a low amount of protein, typically around 3.3g per 100ml.
Fat is the Primary Macronutrient: The main nutritional component of single cream is fat, not protein.
Serving Size Matters: A small serving, like two tablespoons, provides only about 1 gram of protein.
Poor Protein Source: For increasing daily protein intake, single cream is not an effective food choice.
Enhance Recipes for Protein: You can boost the protein in cream-based recipes by adding higher-protein ingredients like Greek yogurt or protein powder.

Understanding the Nutritional Profile of Single Cream

Single cream, also known as coffee cream or table cream, is a dairy product with a fat content typically between 18% and 30%. The higher fat content is what differentiates it from whole milk, and it is this very fat that dilutes the overall percentage of other macronutrients, including protein.

The Specifics: How much protein is in single cream?

According to several food and grocery databases, single cream contains approximately 3.3 grams of protein per 100 milliliters. This amount is relatively low compared to other dairy items like milk or Greek yogurt. For a common serving size, such as two tablespoons (30ml), you can expect to get about 1 gram of protein. For reference, a glass of whole milk contains around 8 grams of protein.

Single Cream vs. Other Dairy Products

When evaluating protein sources, it's helpful to compare single cream to its dairy counterparts. Its primary nutritional component is fat, not protein. This makes it a poor choice for those seeking to increase their protein intake, but an excellent ingredient for adding richness and texture to dishes.

A Comparative Look: Single Cream and Other Dairy


Dairy Product	Typical Protein per 100g/ml	Primary Macronutrient	Fat Content	Primary Use
Single Cream	~3.3g	Fat	18-30%	Cooking, coffee
Whole Milk	~3.4g	Balanced	~3.5%	Drinking, cooking
Heavy Whipping Cream	~2.5g	Fat	30-36%+	Whipping, sauces
Greek Yogurt	~10g+	Protein	Varies	High-protein snack
Cottage Cheese	~11g	Protein	Varies	High-protein meal component

Lists of Nutritional Components in Single Cream

Beyond its protein content, single cream offers other nutritional elements worth noting. Here's a breakdown based on typical values per 100ml:

Energy: Approximately 193 kcal (798 kJ)
Fat: Around 19.1g, with 12.2g being saturated fat
Carbohydrates: Approximately 2.2g, all of which are sugars (lactose)
Salt: About 0.07g
Vitamins and Minerals: Contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals naturally found in milk, though not in significant quantities.

How to Increase Protein in Cream-Based Recipes

For those who love the texture of cream but want a higher protein content in their meals, there are several simple strategies:

Combine with a Protein Source: Stir single cream into a protein-rich base, like a soup made with blended lentils or chicken stock.
Swap with Greek Yogurt: In certain recipes, especially for sauces and dressings, a high-protein Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for some or all of the single cream. Greek yogurt provides a significant protein boost and a similar creamy texture.
Mix in Protein Powder: For sweet applications like desserts or coffee, you can create a protein-fortified cream by mixing it with an unflavored or vanilla-flavored protein powder.
Use Cottage Cheese: For savory dishes, blending cottage cheese until smooth creates a creamy, high-protein alternative to single cream.

Conclusion: Single Cream's Place in a Balanced Diet

Single cream's modest protein content of around 3.3g per 100ml confirms it is not a high-protein food source. Its primary function in cooking is to add richness, flavor, and a smooth texture due to its high-fat concentration. While it is a dairy product and therefore contains some protein, it should not be relied upon to significantly contribute to your daily protein goals. Instead, it is best viewed as a delicious addition to meals, with other foods providing the bulk of your protein intake. For those seeking to boost their protein in cream-based dishes, easy modifications with other dairy products or protein powders are excellent options.

A Final Word on the Nutritional Value of Single Cream

In short, while single cream does contain some protein, it is not a major contributor. For balanced nutrition, it is best to enjoy single cream in moderation for its flavor and texture, while sourcing protein from more substantial foods. Its nutritional value is defined more by its fat content and less by its protein. For further reading on dairy nutritional composition, consider exploring resources from dairy industry bodies like the one found at Milk.co.uk.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, despite its thicker consistency, single cream has less protein per 100ml than standard milk. Milk's protein content is slightly higher, and its lower fat percentage makes it a more balanced source.

No, single cream is not considered a good source of protein due to its low concentration per serving. It is primarily a source of fat and calories.

Single cream is not a good choice for a high-protein diet. It is high in fat and low in protein, so other dairy products like Greek yogurt or cottage cheese would be far more suitable.

Both single cream and heavy cream are not significant sources of protein, but single cream typically has slightly more protein per 100ml than heavy cream. This is because heavy cream has a higher fat content, which displaces protein.

The primary nutritional benefit of single cream is its fat content, which adds richness, flavor, and a creamy texture to dishes. It is valued for its culinary uses rather than for its protein or vitamin content.

No, lower-fat cream alternatives are not necessarily higher in protein. For a genuine protein boost, you should consider substituting or adding ingredients like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or milk.

To add more protein to a cream-based soup, you can blend in cooked lentils, add shredded chicken or other meat, or stir in a spoonful of high-protein Greek yogurt at the end of cooking.