What's the Best Substitute for Clotted Cream?
Whether you're out of Clotted Cream or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. A thick, rich cream with a distinctive crust, traditionally made by slowly heating unpasteurized milk. Popular in British cuisine, especially for scones and desserts. In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for clotted cream are mascarpone cheese, crème fraîche, heavy cream with butter, or whipped cream with cream cheese. Each works well depending on the specific use.
Best Substitutes for Clotted Cream
Mascarpone Cheese
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- scones
- desserts
- baking
- spreading
- sauces
Description
Italian cream cheese with rich, velvety texture. Closest substitute in terms of thickness and richness.
Slightly tangier than clotted cream but similar texture. May need a touch of sugar for sweet applications.
Crème Fraîche
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- scones
- desserts
- sauces
- baking
- spreading
Description
French cultured cream with thick, velvety texture and slight tang. Excellent for both sweet and savory uses.
Slightly tangier than clotted cream but similar thickness. Works well in both sweet and savory dishes.
Heavy Cream + Butter
Ratio
1 cup clotted cream = 3/4 cup heavy cream + 1/4 cup softened butter
Best For
- scones
- desserts
- baking
- spreading
Description
Homemade substitute that mimics clotted cream's richness and texture when combined properly.
Mix well to ensure smooth texture. Let come to room temperature before using for best results.
Whipped Cream + Cream Cheese
Ratio
1 cup clotted cream = 1/2 cup whipped cream + 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
Best For
- desserts
- scones
- baking
- spreading
Description
Combination that provides both lightness and richness, similar to clotted cream's texture.
Beat cream cheese first, then fold in whipped cream for best texture. Add sugar for sweet applications.
Double Cream
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- scones
- desserts
- baking
- spreading
- sauces
Description
British heavy cream with high fat content. Closest to clotted cream in terms of richness and texture.
May need to be slightly whipped to achieve clotted cream's thickness. Hard to find in the US.
Sour Cream + Heavy Cream
Ratio
1 cup clotted cream = 1/2 cup sour cream + 1/2 cup heavy cream
Best For
- scones
- savory dishes
- sauces
- baking
Description
Combination that provides tang and richness. Good for savory applications or when you want a slight tang.
Slightly tangier than clotted cream. Works well in both sweet and savory applications.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Clotted Cream, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Choose your substitute based on the recipe's needs and your preference for tanginess
For scones: mascarpone or crème fraîche work best as they spread easily
For baking: heavy cream + butter provides the best texture and richness
For desserts: whipped cream + cream cheese gives a lighter, airier texture
For savory dishes: sour cream + heavy cream adds a nice tang
Always let substitutes come to room temperature before using for best texture
If using mascarpone, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor
For a more authentic clotted cream experience, try making your own with heavy cream
Store substitutes in the refrigerator and use within 3-5 days
If a substitute is too thick, add a little milk or cream to thin it out
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications
Frequently Asked Questions
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