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What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Best substitute for 1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup whole milk + 1/4 cup melted butter
Milk + butter — For cooking and baking, not whipping.
cups
Amounts below are for 1 cup heavy cream
5 substitutes for heavy cream
| Substitute | Use this much | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Milk + butter | 3/4 cup whole milk + 1/4 cup melted butter | For cooking and baking, not whipping. |
| Evaporated milk | 1 cup evaporated milk | Great in sauces; will not whip. |
| Half-and-half + butter | 7/8 cup half-and-half + 1/8 cup melted butter | Richer than half-and-half alone. |
| Greek yogurt + milk | 1/2 cup Greek yogurt + 1/2 cup milk | Adds tang; good in soups. |
| Coconut cream | 1 cup coconut cream | Dairy-free; whips when chilled. |
Heavy cream adds richness and body. For cooking and baking these swaps work well, but only real cream or chilled coconut cream will whip into peaks.
Tips
- To whip, use real cream or chilled coconut cream - milk-based swaps won't hold peaks.
- Add swaps near the end of cooking to avoid curdling.
FAQ
- What heavy cream substitute can be whipped?
- Chilled coconut cream is the best non-dairy option; milk-based swaps will not whip.
- Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
- Yes for cooking - blend 3/4 cup milk with 1/4 cup melted butter per cup of cream.