12 Best Substitutes for Heavy Cream

Heavy cream is a common ingredient in many dishes. However, if you don’t have it or prefer a substitute, there are several options available.

1. Milk and Butter

Combine milk and melted, unsalted butter to mimic the richness of heavy cream. For every cup of heavy cream, use 6 tablespoons of butter and 2/3 cup of milk.

2. Milk and Oil

If you don’t have butter, use a combination of milk and oil. Extra virgin olive oil works best. Use 1/4 cup of oil and 3/4 cup of milk for every cup of heavy cream.

3. Non-dairy Milk and Oil

For a non-dairy option, combine olive oil with coconut milk or soy milk. Use 3/4 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of oil for coconut milk, or 2/3 cup of soy milk and 1/3 cup of oil.

4. Coconut Cream

Chill a can of coconut cream and beat it until it forms stiff peaks. If you don’t have coconut cream, you can use chilled coconut milk instead.

5. Half and Half and Butter

Use a combination of melted, unsalted butter and half and half as a substitute for heavy cream. Use 1/4 cup of butter and 3/4 cup of half and half for every cup of heavy cream.

6. Yogurt and Milk

Mix equal parts yogurt and milk to mimic heavy cream. This substitute works well in recipes that require the texture of heavy cream.

7. Milk and Cornstarch

Add cornstarch to milk to match the thickness of heavy cream. Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of cornstarch into 1 cup of milk and let it thicken.

8. Tofu and Soy Milk

Blend silken tofu with soy milk to thicken it and resemble heavy cream. This substitute works well in dishes with a creamy sauce base.

9. Powdered Milk

Use powdered milk to thicken sauces and soups. Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of powdered milk with a liquid base and let it thicken.

10. Buttermilk

Buttermilk can be used as a substitute for heavy cream, but it has a different taste and texture. Use it in recipes that don’t require a thickening agent.

11. Cream Cheese

Cream cheese can thicken soups, sauces, and stovetop meals. Soften the cream cheese and add some milk to achieve the right texture.

12. Sour Cream

Sour cream can replace heavy cream easily. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but keep in mind the difference in flavor.

13. Evaporated Milk

Evaporated milk is a thicker alternative to regular milk and can be used as a substitute for heavy cream in most recipes.

There you have it – 12 great substitutes for heavy cream. Experiment with these options to find the perfect replacement for your recipes!

Sources: Cream Chargers, Environmental Working Group, Foods for Better Health, Prepared Cooks, and U.S. Department of Agriculture.