🥛 Dairy

Heavy Whipping Cream Substitute for Ice Cream Guide

Discover the best heavy whipping cream substitutes for making homemade ice cream and frozen desserts.

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Quick Answer

For ice cream, the best heavy whipping cream substitutes are half-and-half + butter, coconut cream, or evaporated milk. These provide the fat content and creaminess needed for smooth, rich ice cream.

Best Substitutes

Half-and-Half + Butter

1/2 cup half-and-half + 1/2 cup melted butter

The closest substitute to heavy cream for ice cream. Provides the exact fat content needed for smooth, creamy texture and proper freezing.

Best for:

Traditional ice creamGelatoFrozen custardIce cream cakes

Mix melted butter into half-and-half until well combined. This recreates the exact fat content of heavy cream for ice cream.

Coconut Cream

1:1

Dairy-free alternative that provides similar richness and creaminess. Creates smooth, scoopable ice cream with a subtle coconut flavor.

Best for:

Vegan ice creamDairy-free dessertsTropical flavorsCoconut ice cream

Use full-fat coconut milk, refrigerate overnight, and use only the thick cream on top. Perfect for dairy-free ice cream.

Evaporated Milk

1:1

Concentrated milk that provides similar thickness and richness. Creates lighter ice cream with good texture and flavor.

Best for:

Light ice creamFrozen yogurtIce cream barsFrozen treats

Use full-fat evaporated milk for best results. Mix with sugar and vanilla before churning.

Milk + Cornstarch

1 cup milk + 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Creates a thickened milk mixture that mimics heavy cream's consistency. Perfect for lighter ice cream with good texture.

Best for:

Light ice creamFrozen yogurtIce cream basesFrozen desserts

Mix cornstarch with cold milk first, then heat while whisking until thickened. Cool before churning.

Greek Yogurt + Milk

1/2 cup Greek yogurt + 1/2 cup milk

Tangy alternative that provides creaminess and body. Creates smooth, tangy ice cream with less fat than traditional recipes.

Best for:

Frozen yogurtTangy ice creamFruit ice creamLight desserts

Mix Greek yogurt with milk until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla before churning.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Always chill your ice cream base thoroughly before churning
  • 💡For best results, use an ice cream maker for proper texture
  • 💡Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of your ice cream
  • 💡Coconut cream works best for dairy-free ice cream
  • 💡Greek yogurt adds a tangy note that complements fruit flavors
  • 💡Evaporated milk creates lighter ice cream with good texture
  • 💡For richer ice cream, use half-and-half + butter
  • 💡Store homemade ice cream in the freezer for at least 4 hours before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best substitute for heavy cream in ice cream?

Half-and-half + butter is the best substitute for ice cream because it provides the exact fat content needed for smooth, creamy texture and proper freezing.

Can I use coconut cream for ice cream?

Yes! Coconut cream works excellently for ice cream, especially for dairy-free versions. It creates smooth, scoopable ice cream with a subtle coconut flavor.

Will my ice cream be creamy without heavy cream?

It depends on your substitute. Half-and-half + butter and coconut cream will create creamy ice cream, while regular milk may result in icier texture.

Can I use evaporated milk for ice cream?

Yes, evaporated milk works well for ice cream. It creates lighter ice cream with good texture and flavor, though it may be slightly less rich than heavy cream.

How do I make dairy-free ice cream?

Use coconut cream as your base. Mix it with sugar, vanilla, and your desired flavors, then churn in an ice cream maker for best results.

Can I use Greek yogurt for ice cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well for ice cream, especially frozen yogurt. It creates tangy, smooth ice cream with less fat than traditional recipes.

Summary

Discover the best heavy whipping cream substitutes for ice cream including half-and-half + butter, coconut cream, and evaporated milk. Perfect for homemade ice cream and frozen desserts.