Recreating Traditional Clotted Cream with Vegan Alternatives
Traditional clotted cream, a dairy-based product, achieves its unique texture through indirect heating of milk. This process causes the fat to rise and clot, creating a thick, buttery, and slightly sweet delicacy. Since plant-based ingredients have different compositions, replicating this process directly is impossible. However, using high-fat vegan ingredients and modern kitchen techniques allows for the creation of alternatives that mimic the texture and taste profile of clotted cream with remarkable accuracy.
The challenge is finding the right ingredients to achieve a firm, spoonable consistency without being greasy or overly sweet. Two popular homemade methods are coconut cream-based and cashew-based recipes.
Coconut Cream Method for Vegan Clotted Cream
This method uses the fat content of full-fat coconut milk or cream. Chilling the can thoroughly separates the fat from the liquid.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14-15 oz) full-fat coconut milk or cream, chilled for at least 24 hours
- 1-2 tbsp powdered (icing) sugar, to taste
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Coconut Cream: Open the chilled can and scoop out the solid coconut cream, reserving the watery liquid.
- Combine: Place the solid cream in a bowl and add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Whip: Use an electric mixer or whisk for 1-2 minutes until smooth and fluffy with soft peaks.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cream for at least an hour before serving.
Cashew-Based Vegan Clotted Cream
This method provides a richer, less coconut-flavored option. It requires more preparation due to soaking the cashews.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 20 minutes
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 4 oz unflavored vegan cream cheese (Kite Hill or Tofutti)
- 2-3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- Soak Cashews: Soak cashews in hot water for at least 20 minutes, then drain and rinse.
- Blend: Combine cashews, vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and salt in a blender.
- Mix to Smoothness: Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Thicken: Refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour to thicken.
Store-Bought Vegan Clotted Cream Options
For convenience, the market offers high-quality pre-made vegan clotted cream alternatives.
- Positive Bakes Vegan Clotted Cream: Available from online vegan retailers, this product is known for its thickness and is often sold frozen. It is made with shea butter, oats, and coconut oil, offering a soy-free, gluten-free, and palm oil-free option.
- Culted Cream: A UK-based option designed for cream teas, Culted Cream is carefully crafted for an authentic flavor and texture.
- Flora Plant Cream: A versatile product that can be whipped into thick peaks suitable for scones, especially when combined with vegan butter and icing sugar.
Recipe Comparison: Coconut vs. Cashew
| Feature | Coconut-Based Method | Cashew-Based Method |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Noticeable coconut flavor. Can be masked with sugar/vanilla. | Rich, creamy, and largely neutral. |
| Texture | Lighter and fluffier. Soft peaks. | Denser and richer. |
| Key Ingredients | Full-fat coconut milk/cream, powdered sugar, vanilla (optional). | Raw cashews, vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice. |
| Preparation Time | Very fast. | Longer, requiring cashew soaking and chilling. |
| Ease of Preparation | Very easy. | Moderate. Requires a high-speed blender. |
| Allergens | Coconut. | Cashews (a tree nut). |
Enhancing Your Vegan Cream Tea Experience
Serving vegan clotted cream is similar to serving the traditional dairy version. It pairs well with freshly baked scones and jam. Remember the classic debate: jam first or cream first? Traditionally, in Cornwall, it's jam first, then cream, while in Devon, it's cream first, then jam. Serve with hot tea.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Vegan Cream Tea
A truly authentic cream tea is possible without dairy. Whether choosing the coconut or cashew-based version, a satisfying replica of the classic spread can be achieved. With store-bought options available, enjoying a plant-based cream tea is simple. Your perfect vegan afternoon tea awaits. For more vegan recipes, visit The Vegan Larder.
Additional Vegan Clotted Cream Recipes
These popular homemade vegan clotted cream recipes offer options based on ingredients, desired taste, and ease of preparation:
- Whipped Coconut Cream: A three-ingredient recipe using the solid cream from chilled coconut milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
- Vegan Butter and Cream Blend: A richer version that mixes vegan butter and plant-based double cream to create a stiffer cream.
- Cashew and Cream Cheese: A blend of soaked cashews, vegan cream cheese, and butter offers a luxurious texture.
- Coconut and Cream Cheese: Combines chilled coconut cream with vegan cream cheese and powdered sugar.
- Soya Cream and Fats: Some UK recipes use soya cream, vegan butter, and white vegetable fat with sugar.
