Whole milk substitutes
Whole milk substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use 2% milk
Same amount as the whole milk
Similar milk with different fat content.
The best substitutes for whole milk are 2% milk, heavy cream, or other dairy products like half and half or buttermilk, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of whole milk | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2% milkcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Heavy creamcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Half and halfcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Buttermilkcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Coconut milkcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Almond milkcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
2% milk
similar taste, different texture
Similar milk with different fat content.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, desserts, beverages
Different fat content, similar flavor.
Heavy cream
similar taste, different texture
Similar dairy product with different fat content.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, desserts, beverages
Different fat content, similar flavor.
Half and half
similar taste, different texture
Similar dairy product with different fat content.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, desserts, beverages
Different fat content, similar flavor.
Buttermilk
different taste, similar texture
Similar dairy product with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, desserts, beverages
Different flavor, similar texture.
Coconut milk
different taste, similar texture
Similar plant-based alternative with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, desserts, vegan recipes
Different flavor, similar texture.
Almond milk
different taste, similar texture
Similar plant-based alternative with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, baking, desserts, vegan recipes
Different flavor, similar texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use 2% milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, 2% milk is a good substitute for whole milk. It has similar flavor and can be used in most recipes that call for whole milk.
What's the difference between whole milk and 2% milk?
Whole milk has 3.25% fat content, while 2% milk has 2% fat content. Both have similar flavor and can be used interchangeably.
Can I use heavy cream instead of whole milk?
Yes, heavy cream can work as a substitute, though it may be more rich. It has similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
Why is whole milk so popular in baking?
Whole milk is popular in baking because it adds fat content and creaminess that helps create moist, tender baked goods.
Tips for substituting whole milk
6 tips- Whole milk adds fat content and creaminess to dishes
- Whole milk can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Whole milk pairs well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
- Whole milk works well in baking and desserts
- Whole milk can be used to make sauces and soups
- Store whole milk in the refrigerator
Scale it
Scale a swap to your recipe, or convert cups to grams.