🔧 Vegan

Vegan Coconut Cream Substitute: Complete Guide

Find the best vegan substitutes for coconut cream. Learn proper ratios, techniques, and tips for dairy-free cooking and baking.

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Quick Answer

The best vegan substitutes for coconut cream are cashew cream (1:1), blended silken tofu (1:1), or full-fat coconut milk (refrigerated overnight). For whipped cream, use chilled coconut cream or aquafaba whipped to soft peaks.

Best Substitutes

Cashew Cream

1:1

Blended soaked cashews create rich, creamy texture perfect for vegan recipes. Provides neutral flavor that works in both sweet and savory dishes.

Best for:

vegan dessertssaucesdipscheesecakesfrostingssoups

Soak cashews 2-4 hours before blending. Add water gradually for desired consistency. Use raw, unsalted cashews for best results.

Silken Tofu (Blended)

1:1

Blended silken tofu creates creamy texture for vegan recipes. Provides protein and works well in both sweet and savory applications.

Best for:

vegan dessertssaucesdipscheesecakessoupssmoothies

Blend until completely smooth. May need to add a little liquid for desired consistency. Use soft silken tofu for creamiest texture.

Full-Fat Coconut Milk (Refrigerated)

1:1

Refrigerate full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the thick cream that separates to the top. Provides authentic coconut flavor.

Best for:

vegan cookingcurriessoupssaucesdessertswhen you want coconut flavor

Refrigerate overnight and use only the thick cream layer. Discard the watery liquid below. Shake can before opening for best results.

Aquafaba (Whipped)

1 cup coconut cream = 1/2 cup aquafaba + 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Whipped chickpea liquid creates light, fluffy texture perfect for vegan whipped cream and mousses.

Best for:

vegan whipped creammoussesfrostingslight dessertswhen you need whipped texture

Whip aquafaba with electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar gradually. May take 5-10 minutes to whip properly.

Coconut Yogurt

1:1

Thick, creamy coconut yogurt provides similar texture with probiotic benefits. Works well in both sweet and savory recipes.

Best for:

saucesdipsdessertssmoothieswhen you want probiotic benefits

Use plain, unsweetened coconut yogurt. May need to strain through cheesecloth for thicker consistency.

Almond Cream

1:1

Blended soaked almonds create rich, creamy texture with nutty flavor. Perfect for desserts and sauces.

Best for:

vegan dessertssaucesdipswhen you want nutty flavorbaking

Soak almonds 4-6 hours before blending. Use blanched almonds for smoother texture. Add water gradually for desired consistency.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡For vegan whipped cream, chill coconut cream overnight and whip with electric mixer until fluffy
  • 💡Cashew cream works best when soaked for 2-4 hours before blending for smooth texture
  • 💡Silken tofu should be blended until completely smooth to avoid graininess in desserts
  • 💡Aquafaba needs to be whipped for 5-10 minutes to achieve proper whipped cream consistency
  • 💡Full-fat coconut milk works best when refrigerated overnight to separate cream from liquid
  • 💡For savory dishes, cashew cream provides neutral flavor that won't overpower other ingredients
  • 💡Coconut yogurt can be strained through cheesecloth for thicker, creamier consistency
  • 💡Almond cream adds nutty flavor that works well in both sweet and savory vegan recipes

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best vegan substitute for coconut cream?

The best vegan substitute for coconut cream is cashew cream (1:1 ratio). Soak raw cashews for 2-4 hours, then blend with water until smooth. It provides rich, creamy texture with neutral flavor that works in both sweet and savory recipes.

Can I use silken tofu instead of coconut cream?

Yes, blended silken tofu works well as a vegan coconut cream substitute. Use a 1:1 ratio and blend until completely smooth. It provides creamy texture and protein, though the flavor will be different from coconut cream.

How do I make vegan whipped cream without coconut cream?

For vegan whipped cream, use aquafaba (chickpea liquid). Whip 1/2 cup aquafaba with 1/4 cup powdered sugar using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. This creates light, fluffy whipped cream without coconut cream.

Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream in vegan recipes?

Yes, refrigerate full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the thick cream that separates to the top. This provides the same coconut flavor and texture as coconut cream in vegan recipes.

What's the best vegan substitute for coconut cream in curry?

For vegan curry, use cashew cream (1:1 ratio) as it provides rich, creamy texture with neutral flavor that won't overpower the spices. Alternatively, use full-fat coconut milk that's been refrigerated overnight to separate the cream.

Summary

Find the best vegan substitutes for coconut cream including cashew cream, silken tofu, and aquafaba. Learn proper ratios and techniques for dairy-free cooking.