Coconut cream substitutes
Coconut cream substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Heavy cream
Same amount as the coconut cream
Dairy cream with similar richness and thickness to coconut cream.
The best substitutes for coconut cream are heavy cream, full-fat coconut milk, or cashew cream depending on dietary needs.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of coconut cream | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Heavy creambaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Full-fat coconut milkvegan cooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Cashew creamvegan desserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Coconut milk (reduced)vegan cooking | 1 ½ cups coconut milk (simmered until reduced) per 1 cup coconut creamWorks | Works |
| 5 | Greek yogurtsauces | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Silken tofu (blended)vegan desserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Heavy cream
different taste, similar texture
Dairy cream with similar richness and thickness to coconut cream.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, sauces, whipped cream
Not suitable for vegan recipes. Use when dairy is acceptable.
Full-fat coconut milk
similar taste and texture
Coconut milk with similar flavor but may be thinner consistency.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, curries, soups, sauces
Refrigerate overnight and use the thick cream that separates to the top.
Cashew cream
different taste, similar texture
Blended cashews create rich, creamy texture good for vegan recipes.
- Best for
- vegan desserts, sauces, dips, cheesecakes
Soak cashews 2-4 hours before blending. Add water gradually for desired consistency.
Coconut milk (reduced)
similar taste and texture
Simmer coconut milk until reduced to thick, creamy consistency.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, curries, sauces, desserts
Simmer over low heat until reduced by half. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Greek yogurt
different taste, similar texture
Thick, creamy yogurt with similar texture but different flavor.
- Best for
- sauces, dips, desserts, baking
Not suitable for vegan recipes. Use plain, full-fat Greek yogurt.
Silken tofu (blended)
different taste, similar texture
Blended silken tofu creates creamy texture for vegan recipes.
- Best for
- vegan desserts, sauces, dips, cheesecakes
Blend until completely smooth. May need to add a little liquid for desired consistency.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between coconut cream and coconut milk?
Coconut cream is thicker and richer than coconut milk. It's made from the first pressing of coconut meat and has a higher fat content.
Can I use heavy cream instead of coconut cream?
Yes, heavy cream works as a substitute but won't have the coconut flavor. It's not suitable for vegan recipes.
How do I make coconut cream from coconut milk?
Refrigerate full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the thick cream that separates to the top. Discard the watery liquid below.
Can I whip coconut cream like heavy cream?
Yes, coconut cream can be whipped when chilled, but it may not hold its shape as long as dairy cream. Add a little powdered sugar to help stabilize it.
Tips for substituting coconut cream
8 tips- Coconut cream is good for vegan whipped cream and desserts
- Use in curries and soups for rich, creamy texture
- Great for making dairy-free ice cream and frozen desserts
- Coconut cream can be whipped like heavy cream when chilled
- Store opened coconut cream in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Freeze coconut cream in ice cube trays for portioned use
- Coconut cream adds richness to smoothies and shakes
- Good for making vegan cheesecakes and mousses