Navigating the World of Dairy-Free Double Cream
The short answer is yes, dairy-free double cream alternatives are widely available for those who are vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply seeking plant-based options. These products have evolved significantly, moving beyond simple soy-based versions to more sophisticated blends that mimic the texture and richness of traditional dairy cream. Whether you plan to use it for pouring, cooking, or whipping, a suitable dairy-free option is likely available in your local supermarket or can be made from scratch at home with just a few ingredients.
Store-Bought Dairy-Free Double Cream Options
The commercial market now offers several excellent ready-to-use plant-based creams. Brands like Elmlea and Flora have created dedicated plant-based versions of their popular cream products, formulated to perform just like their dairy counterparts.
- Elmlea Plant Double: This 100% plant-based alternative is free from dairy, lactose, and gluten. Made from a blend of lentil protein and plant oils, it is designed to be versatile—great for whipping, pouring, and cooking. Its ability to whip and its long shelf life before opening make it a reliable pantry staple.
- Flora Plant Cream Double: Another popular alternative, Flora's plant cream, is suitable for cooking, pouring, and whipping. It is also made with lentil protein and vegetable oils, offering a creamy texture without the need for dairy. The brand emphasizes its lower climate impact compared to dairy cream.
- Silk Dairy-Free Heavy Whipping Cream Alternative: For those in the US, Silk offers a popular heavy whipping cream alternative. Its ingredients typically include water, vegetable oils (like coconut oil), and faba bean protein. It is praised for its creamy texture and versatility across various recipes.
Homemade Dairy-Free Double Cream Recipes
For those who prefer to make their own, several simple and effective homemade recipes exist, using affordable, whole-food ingredients. The choice of recipe often depends on the intended use and desired flavor profile.
- Cashew Cream: This is one of the most popular homemade alternatives due to its neutral flavor and exceptional creaminess. By soaking raw cashews and blending them with fresh water, you can achieve a versatile, thick cream perfect for sauces, soups, and desserts. For a thicker double cream consistency, use less water. A high-speed blender is recommended for the smoothest result.
- Coconut Cream: A simple and effective substitute is the solid cream found in a can of full-fat coconut milk. By chilling the can overnight, the cream separates from the watery liquid, allowing you to scoop out the thick, solid portion. This is an excellent option for desserts and whipped toppings, though it will impart a coconut flavor.
- Soy Milk and Coconut Oil Blend: This recipe from School Night Vegan offers a reliable whipping cream that does not contain coconut flavor. It involves blending soy milk with deodorized coconut oil and chilling the mixture thoroughly before whipping. This creates a stable and versatile cream for baking and dessert toppings.
Using Dairy-Free Double Cream in Your Cooking
Once you have your dairy-free double cream, you can use it in a wide variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. While most commercial options are designed as a direct substitute, homemade recipes might require slight adjustments, especially when exposed to direct heat.
- Cooking: Dairy-free creams are ideal for adding richness to pasta sauces, curries, and soups. Cashew cream thickens sauces beautifully, but you may need to add extra liquid when cooking over high heat to prevent it from thickening too much. Commercial products like Flora Plant are specifically formulated to be stable under high heat.
- Baking and Desserts: For desserts, dairy-free cream can be used to make decadent frostings, fillings for pies, and mousse. Coconut cream is a classic choice for a whipped topping, while soy milk and coconut oil blends can also produce stable, fluffy peaks.
- Whipping: Not all dairy-free creams are suitable for whipping. For best results, use a commercial product specifically labeled for whipping or opt for homemade coconut cream made from chilled, full-fat canned milk. Ensure your cream is very cold before whipping to achieve stiff peaks.
Comparison: Dairy-Free vs. Dairy Double Cream
| Feature | Dairy Double Cream | Dairy-Free Double Cream (Plant-Based) |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Cream from cow's milk (36-48% fat) | Varies: Plant oils (coconut, canola), proteins (lentil, faba bean), water, emulsifiers, stabilizers |
| Fat Content | High in milk fat, including saturated fat | Varies by brand and recipe; often lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than dairy cream |
| Flavor | Rich, milky, and creamy | Varies; can be neutral (cashew, soy-oil blends) or have a slight taste of the source ingredient (coconut) |
| Whipping | Whips reliably to stiff peaks | Varies by brand and recipe; some commercial products and homemade coconut cream whip well |
| Cooking | Very stable for cooking, minimal risk of curdling | Stable commercial options available; homemade creams may thicken quickly with direct heat |
| Nutritional Profile | Contains natural protein, calcium, and vitamins A, D, B12; also higher in cholesterol | Generally lower in calories, saturated fat, and cholesterol; may lack natural micronutrients unless fortified |
Conclusion: The Rise of Reliable Dairy-Free Alternatives
In conclusion, the days of struggling to find a viable replacement for dairy double cream are long gone. The market now provides a wide range of commercially produced plant-based creams from reputable brands like Elmlea and Flora that perform reliably for cooking, pouring, and whipping. For those who enjoy a more hands-on approach or have specific dietary needs, easy homemade alternatives using cashews or coconut cream offer excellent results with a purer ingredient list. While there are some differences in flavor and nutritional content, the performance of modern dairy-free alternatives means you no longer have to sacrifice richness and creaminess in your recipes. The choice ultimately depends on your personal taste, dietary requirements, and whether you prefer the convenience of a store-bought product or the control of making it yourself from scratch.
For more information on dairy-free baking and cooking, consider exploring resources from specialized publications such as VegNews.
