Dairy-Based Substitutes for Double Cream
If you're looking to replicate the high fat and richness of double cream while staying with dairy, these options are perfect and often use ingredients you already have.
Milk and Butter
This is one of the simplest and most versatile substitutes, perfect for thickening sauces and enriching soups. The key is recreating the high-fat content of double cream. To make it, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and slowly whisk it into 3/4 cup of whole milk. This mixture can replace 1 cup of double cream in a 1:1 ratio for most cooking and baking applications, but it won't whip into peaks. For a thicker consistency, you can incorporate a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch.
Half-and-Half and Butter
For a richer, closer match to double cream's texture and fat content, combine half-and-half with melted butter. A good ratio is 7/8 cup of half-and-half with 1/8 cup of melted unsalted butter to replace 1 cup of double cream. This works beautifully in most recipes where richness is desired, but like the milk and butter mix, it is not suitable for whipping.
Mascarpone Cheese
This Italian cheese has a very high-fat content (around 44%) and a creamy, rich texture, making it an excellent substitute in many sweet recipes and even savory sauces. Thinning it with a little milk can help achieve the desired consistency.
Greek Yogurt and Milk
For a lower-fat, higher-protein substitute, combine equal parts full-fat Greek yogurt and whole milk. This provides a tangy richness that works well in savory dishes like sauces and soups. However, you must temper the yogurt by stirring some hot liquid into it before adding it to the main dish to prevent curdling, and it cannot be whipped.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Alternatives
For those following a plant-based diet or with lactose intolerance, several excellent substitutes can be made at home.
Coconut Cream
This is a fantastic and versatile dairy-free option, especially for whipping. To get coconut cream, chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight in the refrigerator. The solid, thick cream will separate and rise to the top. Scoop it out and whip it for a delicious topping or use it as-is for adding richness to curries, sauces, and desserts. Note that it will impart a coconut flavor.
Cashew Cream
Cashew cream is a neutral-flavored, versatile vegan alternative that works well in both sweet and savory dishes. Soak 1 cup of raw cashews in water for 2-4 hours, then drain and blend with 3/4 cup of fresh filtered water until perfectly smooth and creamy. A high-powered blender is recommended for the silkiest texture.
Silken Tofu and Soy Milk
Blended silken tofu with soy milk offers a high-protein, low-fat alternative with a neutral flavor. Blend 1 cup of silken tofu with 1/4 cup of soy milk until smooth. It can be used for sauces, creamy pies, and even whipped with added sugar and vanilla for a dairy-free whipped topping.
White Beans
This is a surprising but effective way to add creaminess and thickness to savory soups and stews. Simply puree cooked white beans with a little liquid from the dish until smooth. This boosts the fiber and protein content while mimicking a creamy texture without the fat.
Comparison Table of Double Cream Substitutes
| Substitute | Best for... | Vegan? | Will it whip? | Flavor profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milk and Butter | Sauces, soups, baking | No | No | Neutral | Easy, uses common ingredients, won't hold peaks. |
| Half-and-Half + Butter | Rich sauces, baking | No | No | Neutral | Closest texture to dairy cream for cooking. |
| Mascarpone | Sweet sauces, desserts | No | No (but used as a topping) | Sweet, buttery | Very rich, best for sweet applications. |
| Greek Yogurt + Milk | Savory sauces, toppings | No | No (can curdle) | Tangy, rich | High protein, must be tempered for hot dishes. |
| Coconut Cream | Whipping, curries | Yes | Yes | Coconut | Can be whipped, adds coconut flavor, best chilled. |
| Cashew Cream | Sauces, desserts | Yes | No | Neutral | Very smooth texture, requires pre-soaking cashews. |
| Silken Tofu + Soy Milk | Sauces, creamy pies, some whipped toppings | Yes | Yes (when prepared correctly) | Neutral | High protein, lower fat, and versatile. |
| Evaporated Milk | Baking, sauces | No | No | Slightly caramelized | Shelf-stable, 1:1 replacement in cooking. |
Choosing the Right Alternative
Selecting the right double cream substitute depends heavily on your recipe and dietary needs. For savory dishes like pasta sauces and soups, a milk and butter blend or cashew cream works well for a neutral flavor. In curries and tropical-inspired dishes, coconut cream is a natural choice. For desserts that require a whipped topping, your best bet is chilled coconut cream, as most other DIY substitutes will not achieve the desired stiffness. For baking, where fat content is crucial for tenderness, the milk and butter or half-and-half and butter combinations are reliable.
Remember to consider the unique flavor profile each substitute brings. Greek yogurt adds a desirable tanginess to some savory sauces but would be out of place in a delicate dessert. Evaporated milk, with its concentrated, slightly caramelized taste, is excellent in baked goods but might alter the flavor of a simple sauce. Experimentation is key to finding your preferred replacement. Don't be afraid to test a small amount of a new substitute in a separate bowl before adding it to your main dish.
Conclusion
Double cream might be a specialty item, but having a good substitute for double cream is a simple and effective kitchen skill. From dairy options like butter and milk to versatile vegan alternatives such as coconut or cashew cream, there is a replacement suitable for almost any recipe. By understanding the function of the cream in your dish—whether for richness, thickening, or whipping—you can confidently select the best alternative and continue cooking without missing a beat. The key lies in matching the substitute's properties, like fat content and flavor, to your recipe's requirements.
Authoritative Source
For a professional baker's perspective on substitutions, a comprehensive guide can be found on Bon Appétit's website detailing various heavy cream alternatives.
