Coconut Cream substitute

Best substitute

Heavy Cream

Use the same amount as the coconut cream you are replacing

Best for baking

Different taste

The best substitutes for coconut cream are heavy cream, full-fat coconut milk, or cashew cream depending on dietary needs.

Other coconut cream substitutes

Ranked, with the exact amount to use

2Full-Fat Coconut Milk
Close match
Use the same amount
Coconut milk with similar flavor but may be thinner consistency
What changes
Best for
vegan cooking, curries, soups, sauces
Refrigerate overnight and use the thick cream that separates to the top.
3Cashew Cream
Different taste
Use the same amount
Blended cashews create rich, creamy texture perfect for vegan recipes
What changes
Best for
vegan desserts, sauces, dips, cheesecakes
Soak cashews 2-4 hours before blending. Add water gradually for desired consistency.
4Coconut Milk (Reduced)
Close match
Use 1 ½ cups coconut milk (simmered until reduced) for every 1 cup coconut cream
Simmer coconut milk until reduced to thick, creamy consistency
What changes
Best for
vegan cooking, curries, sauces, desserts
Simmer over low heat until reduced by half. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
5Greek Yogurt
Different taste
Use the same amount
Thick, creamy yogurt with similar texture but different flavor
What changes
Best for
sauces, dips, desserts, baking
Not suitable for vegan recipes. Use plain, full-fat Greek yogurt.
6Silken Tofu (Blended)
Different taste
Use the same amount
Blended silken tofu creates creamy texture for vegan recipes
What changes
Best for
vegan desserts, sauces, dips, cheesecakes
Blend until completely smooth. May need to add a little liquid for desired consistency.

What is Coconut Cream?

Coconut Cream is Thick, rich cream made from coconut milk, used in vegan cooking and tropical desserts.

Cooking tips

Coconut cream is perfect 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
Perfect for making vegan cheesecakes and mousses

Frequently asked questions

What'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.

Related substitutes

More dairy alternatives substitutes

Coconut Cream substitute

Other coconut cream substitutes

2Full-Fat Coconut Milk

3Cashew Cream

4Coconut Milk (Reduced)

5Greek Yogurt

6Silken Tofu (Blended)