Is coconut cream not dairy? Understanding the plant-based alternative

January 13, 2026 •

3 min read

Over 68% of the world's population has some form of lactose malabsorption, making the search for dairy-free alternatives crucial. For those wondering, is coconut cream not dairy? The answer is a clear yes, it is a plant-based product derived entirely from coconuts.

Quick Summary

Coconut cream is a plant-based, dairy-free product made from the flesh of mature coconuts. It is a thick, creamy alternative suitable for vegans and people with lactose intolerance, used in a variety of culinary applications.

Key Points

Plant-Based Source: Coconut cream is derived entirely from the flesh of coconuts and is not a dairy product.
Dairy-Free and Vegan: It contains no lactose or casein, making it suitable for people with dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, and those following a vegan diet.
Rich in MCTs: The fats in coconut cream are primarily Medium-Chain Triglycerides, which are metabolized differently than animal-based fats and used for energy.
Versatile Culinary Use: It serves as an excellent substitute for dairy cream in a wide array of recipes, including curries, desserts, sauces, and whipped toppings.
High in Calories and Saturated Fat: While beneficial, coconut cream is calorie-dense and high in saturated fat, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Easy to Make at Home: You can create homemade coconut cream by chilling a can of full-fat coconut milk and scooping the thick cream that separates at the top.

What Exactly is Coconut Cream?

Coconut cream is a thick, rich product made from the flesh of mature coconuts. It is created by simmering grated coconut meat in water and then straining the resulting liquid. The cream, which is the fattier, thicker part, naturally separates and rises to the top, while the thinner liquid becomes coconut milk. This process confirms that coconut cream is derived solely from a plant source, with no animal products involved. Its creamy consistency and subtly sweet flavor make it a highly versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes.

Why is Coconut Cream Not Dairy?

The primary reason coconut cream is not dairy is its source. Dairy products, by definition, are derived from the milk of mammals, most commonly cows. They contain lactose, a sugar, and casein, a protein, which are often the culprits behind digestive issues for people with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Coconut cream, being plant-based, contains neither of these. It is naturally lactose-free and completely free of dairy proteins, making it a safe and suitable option for vegans and individuals with dairy sensitivities.

Key Differences: Coconut Cream vs. Dairy Cream

To further clarify, let's look at a head-to-head comparison of coconut cream and a typical dairy cream.


Feature	Coconut Cream	Dairy Cream
Source	Plant-based (coconuts)	Animal-based (mammals)
Lactose	No lactose	Contains lactose
Casein	No casein	Contains casein
Cholesterol	No cholesterol	Contains cholesterol
Fats	Primarily Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs)	Primarily Long-Chain Fatty Acids (LCFAs)
Minerals	Rich in potassium, magnesium, iron	Rich in calcium and Vitamin D
Flavor	Distinct coconut flavor	Neutral, dairy-like flavor

Benefits of Choosing Coconut Cream

Beyond being a safe alternative for those with dietary restrictions, coconut cream offers several benefits:

Vegan-Friendly: It provides a rich and creamy texture ideal for replicating dairy in a variety of vegan dishes, from curries to desserts.
Nutrient Profile: While high in saturated fat and calories, it contains MCTs, which are used by the body for energy more quickly than LCFAs. It also contains essential minerals like iron, potassium, and magnesium.
Versatile: It can be used in a wide range of culinary applications, making it a staple in many kitchens. Its distinctive flavor can enhance both sweet and savory recipes.

Culinary Uses and Tips for Coconut Cream

Coconut cream's versatility makes it a fantastic ingredient to have on hand. Here are some popular uses:

Curries and Sauces: A foundational ingredient in many Thai and Indian curries, it adds a luxurious, creamy texture and helps balance spicy flavors.
Desserts: Create decadent dairy-free ice cream, puddings, custards, or a fluffy whipped cream by chilling the cream and whipping it with a mixer.
Baking: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream in cakes, frosting, and other baked goods for a moist, rich result.
Smoothies: Add a scoop to your smoothie for extra creaminess and a boost of healthy fats.

Making Your Own Coconut Cream at Home

You don't need a special trip to the store to get coconut cream if you have a can of full-fat coconut milk. Simply follow these steps:

Chill: Place an unopened can of full-fat coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
Separate: Once chilled, the thick, solid cream will rise and separate from the thinner coconut water at the bottom.
Scoop: Carefully open the can without shaking and scoop out the thick cream. You can save the leftover coconut water for smoothies or other drinks.

Considerations for a Balanced Diet

While coconut cream is a great dairy alternative, it is important to consume it in moderation. It is calorie-dense and high in saturated fat. While the MCTs it contains are metabolized differently than animal fats, a balanced diet is still key. For heart health, health professionals generally recommend limiting overall saturated fat intake. A balanced approach ensures you enjoy its benefits without negatively impacting your dietary goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, to the question "is coconut cream not dairy?", the answer is definitively no. Derived exclusively from the coconut plant, it contains no lactose, casein, or cholesterol, making it a perfect dairy-free and vegan alternative. Its rich, creamy texture and unique flavor profile make it a valuable ingredient for a wide variety of culinary uses, from savory curries to sweet desserts. While its high fat and calorie content means it should be enjoyed in moderation, it offers a delicious and functional plant-based option for those avoiding dairy.

For more nutritional details and health comparisons, you can consult Healthline's article on coconut cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, coconut cream is naturally lactose-free because it is a plant-based product derived from coconuts, not animal milk. It is a safe and common alternative for those with lactose intolerance.

Yes, coconut cream is an excellent, dairy-free substitute for heavy cream in many recipes. Its thick, rich consistency works well in curries, sauces, desserts, and can even be whipped.

Absolutely. Since coconut cream is made from coconut flesh and water, with no animal products, it is a perfect ingredient for vegan diets.

Coconut cream has a higher ratio of coconut meat to water, giving it a thicker consistency and higher fat content than coconut milk. Coconut milk is the thinner liquid left behind when the cream separates.

Yes, a delicious dairy-free whipped cream can be made by chilling a can of full-fat coconut cream (or milk) until the cream solids harden. Scoop out the cream and whip it with a mixer until it becomes light and fluffy.

Yes, coconut cream has a distinct, subtly sweet coconut flavor. While it works well in many savory dishes, the coconut taste will be present, unlike the neutral flavor of dairy cream.

The health profiles differ. While dairy cream has calcium, coconut cream is cholesterol-free and contains MCTs. However, coconut cream is also high in calories and saturated fat, so moderation is key.