Heavy Cream Substitute: 3 Best Replacements

Heavy cream (36%+ fat) whips into peaks, enriches sauces, and resists curdling at heat. Whether you ran out mid-recipe or need a dietary swap, here are the best substitutes for heavy cream, with exact amounts.

1

Milk + melted butter

Use: 3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup melted butter for 1 cup heavy cream

Whisk together well.

Will not whip, but works in cooking and baking.

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2

Coconut cream

Use: 1:1 for 1 cup heavy cream

Chill the can, scoop the thick cream.

Dairy-free; slight coconut flavor. Whips if chilled.

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3

Evaporated milk

Use: 1:1 for 1 cup heavy cream

Pour directly; chill first for better body.

Works in sauces and soups; will not whip.

vegetariangluten-free

Frequently asked questions

What is the best substitute for heavy cream?

The best all-round substitute is Milk + melted butter: use 3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup melted butter for 1 cup heavy cream. Whisk together well. Will not whip, but works in cooking and baking.

Can I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes. Use 1:1 for 1 cup heavy cream. Chill the can, scoop the thick cream. Dairy-free; slight coconut flavor. Whips if chilled.

What is a vegan substitute for heavy cream?

Vegan options: Coconut cream.

How much evaporated milk equals 1 cup heavy cream?

Use 1:1. Pour directly; chill first for better body.

More ingredient substitutes

Missing something else? Search all 48 ingredients in the substitute finder.