Understanding Your Nutrition Diet: How many calories are in vegan heavy whipping cream?

October 23, 2025 •

4 min read

Many popular brands of store-bought vegan heavy whipping cream alternatives contain around 45 calories per tablespoon. The total caloric content of how many calories are in vegan heavy whipping cream? depends heavily on its primary ingredients and formulation, with variations existing between commercial products and homemade versions.

Quick Summary

The number of calories in vegan heavy whipping cream can vary significantly depending on the product's primary ingredients, such as coconut oil, sunflower oil, or lentil protein. Commercial brands typically provide around 45 calories per tablespoon, though homemade and alternative versions may differ based on formulation.

Key Points

Calorie Range: Store-bought vegan heavy whipping cream typically contains around 45 calories per tablespoon.
Ingredient Impact: The base ingredient, like coconut oil or lentil protein, dictates the calorie and fat profile.
Comparison to Dairy: Vegan versions are cholesterol-free and often lower in saturated fat than traditional dairy heavy whipping cream.
Serving Size Matters: Most calorie counts for creams are based on a 1-tablespoon serving, so be mindful of portion sizes.
Check Labels: Due to ingredient variations, always check the specific product's nutritional information for the most accurate calorie count.
Homemade vs. Store-bought: Homemade options like coconut cream can have varying calorie counts and might differ in stability from commercial products.
Aquafaba Option: A whipped aquafaba version provides a fat-free, low-calorie alternative, though it lacks the richness of oil-based creams.

Demystifying Vegan Heavy Whipping Cream Calories

For those following a plant-based diet, finding a suitable and delicious heavy whipping cream alternative is a top priority. However, understanding the nutritional information, particularly the calorie count, is equally important. Vegan heavy whipping cream is not a one-size-fits-all product; its caloric and nutritional profile is determined by the plant-based ingredients used to achieve its rich, creamy texture. Factors such as the type of vegetable oil, added sugars, and stabilizers all contribute to the final calorie count. By exploring the different types of vegan heavy cream and their ingredients, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your specific dietary needs.

Calorie Breakdown by Vegan Cream Type

The most common plant-based heavy whipping cream alternatives use different primary ingredients, each with a unique nutritional makeup. Here is a breakdown of what influences the calorie count:

Coconut Cream: This is one of the most popular and readily available vegan options. Full-fat canned coconut milk, after chilling and separating, yields a thick cream with a high fat content, similar to its dairy counterpart. This high fat content translates to a higher calorie density. For example, some homemade whipped coconut cream recipes can have up to 225 calories per serving, though commercial products may differ. The fat is primarily saturated, consisting of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently by the body.
Lentil Protein and Oil Blend: Brands like Silk and Country Crock often use a blend of lentil protein, coconut oil, and sunflower oil to achieve a creamy texture without the strong coconut flavor. These products are often lower in saturated fat than traditional dairy cream, and their calorie count is carefully regulated. A standard 1-tablespoon serving typically contains around 45 calories.
Aquafaba (Chickpea Liquid): This innovative approach uses the liquid from canned chickpeas, known as aquafaba, to create a light and fluffy whipped topping. When whipped, aquafaba can create a fat-free, low-calorie whipped cream substitute. The final calorie count is primarily influenced by the amount of sugar added for sweetness.
Soy Milk and Oil: For a homemade option, blending soy milk with refined coconut oil and other stabilizers can create a richer, more stable whipped cream. The caloric value will depend on the proportions of fat and sugar used, with one tablespoon potentially containing more calories than some store-bought options.

The Role of Ingredients in Caloric Content

The ingredients in commercial vegan heavy whipping cream are carefully formulated to mimic the texture and richness of dairy cream. Key components include:

Plant-based Oils: The fat content is primarily derived from vegetable oils like coconut oil and sunflower oil. Coconut oil is high in saturated fat, which adds to the richness and calorie count. Sunflower oil contributes healthy unsaturated fats, offering a different nutritional profile.
Protein Sources: Ingredients like lentil protein or faba bean protein are used as emulsifiers to help stabilize the product and give it a creamy consistency. These contribute a negligible amount of calories compared to the oils.
Stabilizers and Thickeners: Guar gum, locust bean gum, and modified corn starch are often added to prevent separation and ensure a consistent, stable texture. These are typically low in calories.
Sugars and Flavors: For sweet applications, sugar, icing sugar, or natural flavors may be added, which will increase the calorie count. Checking the nutrition label for added sugars is important for those monitoring their sugar intake.

Vegan vs. Dairy Heavy Whipping Cream: A Nutritional Comparison

To understand the caloric implications of choosing a vegan alternative, it's helpful to compare it to traditional dairy heavy whipping cream. Dairy heavy cream typically contains between 30-36% milk fat and is rich in saturated fat and cholesterol. While vegan creams replicate the texture, they often offer a different fat profile and are cholesterol-free.

Nutritional Comparison Table (per 1 tbsp serving)


Nutrient	Commercial Vegan Cream (Example: Silk)	Homemade Coconut Cream (approx)	Dairy Heavy Whipping Cream (approx)
Calories	45	40	50-52
Total Fat	5g	3.5g	5.5g
Saturated Fat	3g	3.5g	3.5g
Cholesterol	0mg	0mg	20mg
Protein	0g	1g	<1g
Carbohydrates	0g	1g	<1g

Health Considerations and How to Choose

Choosing the right vegan heavy whipping cream depends on your health goals and how you plan to use it. While the calorie difference between some store-bought vegan options and dairy cream is minimal per tablespoon, the ingredients and nutritional benefits vary. Vegan creams are naturally cholesterol-free and often lower in saturated fat, making them a heart-healthier choice. However, some products might contain added sugars or stabilizers, so reading the label is crucial, especially for those with specific dietary concerns.

If you're looking for a whipped topping for desserts, a store-bought version or a chilled canned coconut cream is a great choice for stability. For thickening savory dishes like soups or sauces, products based on cashew cream or tofu can provide creaminess with a different flavor and nutritional profile. Ultimately, the "best" option is the one that fits your taste, dietary requirements, and intended use. For more tips on plant-based alternatives, check out this guide on Vegan in the Freezer.

Conclusion

The calorie content of vegan heavy whipping cream is not a single number but a spectrum influenced by its plant-based origin. Commercial varieties, often made from oil and protein blends, are typically around 45 calories per tablespoon, closely mimicking dairy cream's caloric density but with no cholesterol. Homemade options, especially those derived from coconut cream, can have slightly different caloric values due to their higher fat content. When selecting a vegan cream, consider the ingredients, your desired application (whipping vs. cooking), and personal nutritional preferences. Always consult the product label to find the most accurate calorie and fat information for the brand you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the calorie content varies significantly based on the base ingredient. For example, coconut-based creams tend to be higher in fat and calories, while those made with lentil protein or aquafaba are often lower.

From a heart health perspective, many vegan creams are a better option because they are cholesterol-free and often lower in saturated fat. However, some may contain added stabilizers or sugars, so checking the nutrition label is recommended.

The primary caloric contributors are the vegetable oils used for fat content, such as coconut or sunflower oil. Any added sweeteners will also increase the calorie count.

Yes, especially if you use a base like aquafaba, which is naturally low in fat and calories. The final calorie count will depend on any added sweeteners, which you can control.

Yes, many popular vegan whipping creams contain saturated fat, particularly those using coconut oil as a primary ingredient. While some saturated fat is present, it's generally lower than in dairy cream.

Whipping the cream does not change the total calorie count of the product itself. It only incorporates air, increasing the volume but not the nutritional value. The calories per serving remain constant.

The flavor difference depends on the vegan cream's base ingredient. Coconut-based creams have a distinct coconut taste, while those using lentil protein or soy are designed to be more neutral in flavor to mimic dairy.

Yes, many store-bought vegan heavy whipping creams are formulated to be versatile for both cooking and baking, serving as a 1:1 replacement for dairy cream. Check the product's packaging for specific usage instructions.