Top dairy-free alternatives for heavy whipping cream
Switching to a dairy-free diet doesn't mean giving up on creamy textures in your favorite dishes. Thanks to a variety of plant-based options, you can achieve the same rich, decadent results in sauces, soups, and desserts. The best substitute often depends on the specific recipe and whether you need it for cooking, baking, or whipping.
Coconut cream
One of the most popular and versatile dairy-free options is coconut cream. This is not to be confused with coconut milk; coconut cream is thicker and higher in fat, providing a richness that closely mimics heavy cream. To get coconut cream, you can either buy it directly in a can or chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight in the refrigerator. The solid, thick layer that rises to the top is the cream, which you can then scoop out and use. It works exceptionally well in both sweet and savory dishes, but be aware that it will impart a mild coconut flavor.
- For whipping: Chill a can of full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream for 24 hours. Scoop out the hardened cream, leaving the liquid behind. Beat with a mixer until soft peaks form, adding a little powdered sugar and vanilla for flavor.
- For cooking: Use it as a 1:1 replacement in curries, soups, and creamy sauces.
Cashew cream
For those who need a neutral-flavored alternative, cashew cream is an excellent choice. Its mild taste makes it highly adaptable for a wide range of recipes. To make it, you'll need raw cashews and water. The key is to soak the cashews to soften them, which helps achieve a silky-smooth consistency when blended.
- To make: Soak 1 cup of raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes, or cold water for a few hours. Drain, then blend with about ¾ to 1 cup of fresh water until completely smooth. Use a high-speed blender for the best results.
- Versatility: This cream can be used in savory pasta sauces, creamy soups, and even sweet desserts. You can adjust the cashew-to-water ratio to control the thickness.
Silken tofu
Silken tofu, when blended, provides a creamy, high-protein base that's perfect for certain applications. It works best in recipes with a thick, pudding-like consistency, such as custards, cheesecakes, or creamy dessert fillings. It's not typically suitable for whipping into a fluffy topping.
Other plant-based milks
For lighter, cooking-based applications like thickening a sauce or soup, other plant-based milks can be used. Combining a high-fat milk, like oat or soy, with a neutral oil can also replicate the richness.
- Milk + oil: Blend ⅔ cup of a plant-based milk (oat or soy work well) with ⅓ cup of a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. This is best for cooking and baking but won't whip.
- Milk + cornstarch: Create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch into 1 cup of plant-based milk. This is ideal for thickening sauces and gravies.
Comparison of dairy-free heavy whipping cream alternatives
| Substitute | Best for | Flavor Profile | Notes | Does it whip? | Texture | Consistency in sauces | Richness | Fat Content | Cost | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coconut Cream | Whipping, sweet & savory dishes | Mild coconut flavor | Chill can overnight for best results | Yes | Light and fluffy when whipped | Rich and creamy | High | High | $$ | Widely available |
| Cashew Cream | Sauces, soups, desserts | Neutral, slightly sweet | Requires high-speed blender and soaking | No | Silky smooth | Rich and creamy | High | Medium to High | $$$ | Easy to make at home |
| Silken Tofu | Puddings, custards, fillings | Neutral | High in protein, low in fat | No | Smooth, thick, dense | Adds thickness and creaminess | Low to Medium | Low | $ | Widely available |
| Oat Milk + Oil | Sauces, soups | Neutral | Best for recipes where a rich, creamy liquid is needed | No | Pourable, creamy | Thickened, creamy | Medium | Medium to High | $ | Easy to make at home |
| Store-Bought Dairy-Free Cream | Convenience | Neutral to slightly sweet | Ready-to-use, may contain stabilizers | Some brands, yes | Varies by brand | Good, reliable consistency | Varies by brand | Varies by brand | $$$ | Increasingly available |
Expert tips for success
- Match flavor profiles: Consider the end flavor of your dish. Coconut cream is ideal for tropical or curry-based recipes, while cashew cream is better for neutral-tasting dishes like Alfredo sauce or creamy tomato soup.
- Emulsify correctly: When making your own liquid-based cream (like oat milk and oil), blending is crucial. Using a high-speed blender ensures the fat and liquid emulsify properly, preventing separation and resulting in a smooth, creamy texture.
- Chill ingredients for whipping: Just as with dairy cream, ensuring your ingredients and equipment are well-chilled is key to successfully whipping coconut cream. This helps the fat solidify and hold peaks effectively. Some commercial products are specifically formulated for whipping.
- Adjusting for thickness: For cashew cream and silken tofu blends, you can easily adjust the thickness by adding more or less liquid. For a thicker consistency, use less water; for a thinner, more pourable result, add more.
Conclusion
Finding a suitable dairy-free replacement for heavy whipping cream is easier than ever, thanks to a variety of plant-based options available in stores and for homemade preparation. From the rich and whippable coconut cream to the neutral and versatile cashew cream, there is a substitute to fit almost any culinary need. By considering the flavor profile, desired consistency, and whether the recipe requires a whipped texture, you can confidently choose the best alternative and create delicious, creamy dairy-free meals and desserts. Experimentation is key to finding your personal favorite and achieving perfect results.
The vegan diet
For those adhering to a vegan diet for ethical, environmental, or health reasons, these replacements are staples. Understanding the different properties of each option allows for seamless adaptation of favorite recipes. The growing availability of store-bought vegan creams also offers convenient, ready-to-use options, making dairy-free cooking accessible to everyone.
