6 Delicious Heavy Cream Substitutes for Desserts

Heavy cream is a staple ingredient in many dessert recipes, providing richness, creaminess, and a luxurious mouthfeel. However, sometimes you run out of heavy cream or seek a healthier alternative. Whatever the reason, don’t let the lack of heavy cream hold you back from creating delectable desserts. This blog post will discuss six heavy cream substitutes you can use in baking and cooking.

Evaporated Milk

Substitute Style: Easy Peasy

Evaporated milk is a pantry staple that can be used as a 1:1 substitute for heavy cream. Open a can, and you’re good to go. Not only is evaporated milk a convenient alternative, but it’s also a great option for those who are lactose intolerant, as the process of evaporating the milk helps to reduce the lactose content.

Another reason why evaporated milk is a great substitute is that it’s versatile. It works well in both sweet and savory dishes, and it’s especially useful in recipes where you want to add a creamy texture without the richness of heavy cream. For example, you can make a velvety smooth tomato soup, or creamy mac and cheese.

But what about desserts? Can evaporated milk be used in place of heavy cream in cakes, pies, and other sweet treats? Absolutely! Whether making a classic pumpkin pie or a decadent chocolate cake, evaporated milk can create the same creamy and rich texture you’d expect from heavy cream. The only difference is that you might taste a slightly different flavor, but it’s nothing that a pinch of vanilla extract or a handful of chocolate chips can’t fix.

Coconut Cream

Substitute Style: Exotic Escape

Are you in the mood for a tropical vacation but can’t afford the airfare? Well, you can still experience a bit of the tropics in your kitchen with coconut cream. This rich and creamy substitute can be used as a 1:1 replacement for heavy cream, making it a great option for vegans and those following a dairy-free diet.

Coconut cream has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, which can add a touch of tropical flair to your desserts. Whether making a coconut cream pie, a vegan cheesecake, or a fluffy whipped cream, this substitute will give your desserts a unique and delicious twist.

And the best part? Coconut cream is widely available in grocery stores, so you won’t have to go on a wild goose chase to find it. Simply look for a can of full-fat coconut milk, chill it in the refrigerator overnight, and the next day, you’ll find a thick layer of cream on top that you can use as a substitute for heavy cream.

Note: Keep in mind that coconut cream might add a slight coconut flavor to your desserts, which can either be a pleasant surprise or an unwelcome distraction, depending on your personal taste. If you’re not a fan of coconut, there are still other substitutes.

Yogurt or Greek Yogurt

Substitute Style: Tart and Tangy

If you’re looking for a healthy and low-fat alternative to heavy cream, look no further than yogurt or Greek yogurt. These dairy products are high in protein and probiotics, making them a great option for those watching their waistline.

You can use plain, unsweetened yogurt or Greek yogurt as a 1:1 substitute for heavy cream in your desserts. Keep in mind that the tangy flavor of yogurt might come through in the final product, but this can be a great way to add a new dimension of flavor to your sweet treats. For example, try using yogurt in a lemon pie or a berry tart to add a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the fruit.

When using yogurt as a substitute, it’s important to note that it might not have the same thick and creamy texture as heavy cream. To overcome this, you can strain the yogurt through a fine-mesh sieve for several hours to remove any excess liquid and create a thicker consistency.

Another option is to use Greek yogurt, which has a creamier texture and a more robust flavor compared to regular yogurt. Simply replace the heavy cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt, and you’re ready to go. Whether you’re making a creamy chocolate pudding or a light and fluffy frosting, Greek yogurt is a great option for those who want to add a healthy twist to their desserts.

Silken Tofu

Substitute Style: Silky Smooth

Tofu may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re thinking of dessert ingredients, but silken tofu can be a surprising and effective substitute for heavy cream. Silken tofu is smooth, creamy, and has a neutral flavor, making it an ideal base for rich and creamy desserts.

To use silken tofu as a substitute, simply blend it in a food processor or blender until it’s smooth and creamy. This substitute works particularly well in mousse, chocolate pudding, and pie fillings, where you want a smooth and creamy texture without the added richness of heavy cream.

Note: Keep in mind that silken tofu has a different mouthfeel than heavy cream, and it might work better in recipes where you want a whipped and airy texture, such as whipped cream or meringue.

Almond Milk or Cashew Milk

Substitute Style: Nutty Goodness

For people looking for a nutty and creamy alternative to heavy cream, almond, and cashew milk are great options. These non-dairy milk are rich and creamy, making them perfect for use in a wide range of desserts.

To use either almond or cashew milk as a substitute, replace the heavy cream with an equal amount of either milk. The nutty flavor of this milk will add a new dimension of flavor to your desserts, whether you’re making a vegan cheesecake or a creamy ice cream.

Note: Using unsweetened almond or cashew milk in your baking and cooking is important to avoid adding unnecessary sweetness to your desserts. Also, remember that this milk might have a slightly thinner texture compared to heavy cream, so you might need to adjust the recipe accordingly.

Milk and Butter

Substitute Style: Classic Comfort

A mixture of milk and butter is a great option for those who want a classic and simple alternative to heavy cream. This combination provides a rich and creamy texture that is perfect for a wide range of desserts.

Mix equal parts of milk and melted butter to use this substitute, and you’re ready to go. Whether making a creamy chocolate pudding or a fluffy frosting, this substitute will provide the same creamy and rich texture you’d expect from heavy cream.

Note: This substitute will have a slightly different flavor than heavy cream, so you might need to adjust the recipe accordingly.

Heavy cream is a staple ingredient in many dessert recipes, providing richness, creaminess, and a luxurious mouthfeel. However, sometimes you might not have it on hand, or you’re looking for a healthier alternative. Whatever the reason, these six substitutes for heavy cream can help you achieve a similar texture and flavor in your desserts with a little creativity and a willingness to experiment. Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free option, a healthier alternative, or just a new flavor to add to your sweet treats, these substitutes offer a range of options.

With these substitutes, you’re ready to take your dessert game to the next level and enjoy some sweet treats, no matter what ingredients you have. Happy baking!