Substitutes for cream in cooking include evaporated milk, milk and butter, mascarpone cheese, silken tofu, chilled coconut cream, aquafaba, half-and-half, coconut milk, almond milk creamer, and cashew cream, suitable for various dishes like soups, sauces, baked goods, and desserts.
Evaporated milk can be used as a substitute in baking. It's less creamy but works in a 1:1 ratio. Sweetened versions can be used for desserts. Nestle Carnation is a well-known brand.
A mixture of milk and melted butter can replace cream in baking. Combine 3/4 cup milk with 1/4 cup melted butter to replicate 1 cup of cream. This adds the necessary fat content for richness in baked goods.
Mascarpone can substitute cream in desserts for a rich, creamy texture. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but it will add a slight tang. Brands like BelGioioso and Galbani are recommended.
Blended silken tofu can replace cream in vegan desserts. It offers a smooth texture similar to cream. Use it in a 1:1 ratio. Mori-Nu is a common brand found in stores.
The solid part of chilled full-fat coconut milk can be whipped like cream. It provides a vegan alternative with a subtle coconut flavor. Use it in a 1:1 ratio as a whipped topping. Look for brands like Thai Kitchen or Native Forest.
The liquid from canned chickpeas, known as aquafaba, can be whipped into a foam that resembles whipped cream. It's a vegan option that works well as a topping. No specific brand necessary, just use the liquid from any canned chickpeas.
Half-and-half can replace cream using a 1:1 ratio. It has less fat, so it might not be as rich, but it's a great alternative in sauces and soups. Brands like Land O'Lakes and Horizon are common.
Full-fat coconut milk can substitute cream for a vegan option. It adds a coconut flavor, which might be desirable in some dishes. Use it in a 1:1 ratio. Popular brands include Thai Kitchen and Goya.
Almond milk creamer is a non-dairy, gluten-free alternative that can replace cream in various recipes. It's less rich but works in a 1:1 ratio. Califia Farms and Silk are popular brands.
Blended soaked cashews with water can create a creamy, dairy-free substitute. It's rich and works well in savory and sweet dishes. Use a 1:1 ratio, blending until smooth. No specific brand, homemade is best.
| Recipe Category | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Baking | Evaporated Milk, Milk and Butter |
| Desserts | Mascarpone Cheese, Silken Tofu |
| Whipped Cream | Chilled Coconut Cream, Aquafaba |
| Sauces and Soups | Half-and-Half, Coconut Milk |
| Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Recipes | Almond Milk Creamer, Cashew Cream |
There are multiple substitutes available for cream, catering to various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a lower-fat alternative, a non-dairy substitute, or a vegan option, these alternatives can provide similar textures and flavors to suit your cooking and baking requirements.
