Navigating through the jungle of dairy substitutes can be tiresome.
We’re here to help you with this task by offering a list of the best vegan heavy cream substitutes. Each of them has the potential to transform your cooking into a realm of delectable, dairy-free delight.
Fasten your apron and prepare to embark on a flavor-filled expedition!
Best Vegan Cream
- Coconut Milk
- Silken Tofu Blend
- Cashew Cream
- White Bean Puree
- Oat and Nut Butter
Best Dairy-Free Heavy Cream Substitutes (Brands)
If you want to avoid the hussle of making your own non-dairy milk and other substitutes, here are some ready-to-use options that could take center stage in your next culinary adventure:
Coconut Milk
Whipping coconut milk into a lush, airy cream offers a delightful vegan alternative to traditional whipped toppings. It’s also a joy to prepare.
Start with full-fat canned coconut milk, chilled overnight to separate the cream from the liquid. This is a crucial step — don’t rush it. Scoop out the solidified cream and leave the watery portion behind.
Then, it’s just you and your mixer against the cream, whipping it into submission until it’s as fluffy as a cloud.
The 365 by Whole Foods Market is an excellent option to achieve the desired consistency fast and without too much hassle.
Pros:
- It adds a distinct, tropical taste that can enhance a variety of desserts, offering a creative twist to classic recipes.
- Coconut milk contains vitamins, minerals, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can be beneficial to one’s health when consumed in moderation.
Cons:
- Coconut milk is rich in saturated fats, which may not be suitable for those monitoring their fat intake for health reasons.
- The consistency of whipped coconut cream can vary depending on the brand and fat content of the coconut milk used, which may affect the final outcome of the dessert.
- While the tropical flavor can be a pro, it can also be a con for those who prefer the neutral taste of traditional whipped cream or are pairing it with desserts that may clash with coconut’s strong flavor profile.
Silken Tofu Blend
Silken tofu blend is a versatile, lower-fat alternative that can seamlessly enrich both sweet and savory dishes with its creamy consistency.
You’ll love the silken tofu blend for its healthful benefits and silky-smooth texture that mimics the richness of traditional creams without the heaviness.
The Morinaga Organic Silken Tofu is one of the best choices in this regard. It’s perfect for creamy pasta sauces, decadent cheesecakes, or a velvety chocolate mousse that’ll have everyone begging for the recipe.
Pros:
- Silken tofu is a great source of plant-based protein, calcium, and iron, which are beneficial for overall health.
- Compared to many dairy-based creams, silken tofu has a lower fat content, making it a healthier option.
- Its neutral flavor and smooth texture make it an excellent base for a variety of recipes, ranging from sauces to desserts.
Cons:
- Tofu is made from soy, which is a common allergen and may not be suitable for everyone.
- While it can mimic the creaminess of dairy, some might notice a difference in texture that doesn’t precisely match that of traditional cream-based products.
Cashew Cream
Another heavy cream alternative on our list is cashew cream. It can elevate your culinary creations with its sublime texture and nutty essence.
This dairy-free delight is perfect for those seeking lactose-free alternatives. Wilderness Poets SPiN Organic Cashew Cream is a good option for creating vegan desserts in seconds.
Making vegan cashew cream is simple and deeply rewarding. Here’s how to do it:
- Soak cashews (¾ cup) for at least two hours. It softens them and ensures a smooth blend.
- Drain the cashews and pop them into a blender with about a ¼ cup of water.
- For a touch of seasoning, add a pinch of salt.
- Blend until you achieve a creamy, dreamy consistency that mirrors traditional heavy cream.
Cashew cream’s beauty lies in its adaptability. It’s a chameleon in the kitchen, seamlessly integrating into sweet and savory dishes alike. Use it to thicken soups, enrich pasta sauces, or add decadence to desserts.
Pros:
- Cashew cream is high in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious alternative to dairy cream.
- It can be easily adjusted for various recipes, whether you require a thick cream for soups and sauces or a lighter version for drizzling over fruits and desserts.
Cons:
- Cashew cream isn’t suitable for individuals with tree nut allergies.
- While versatile, cashew cream does have a nutty flavor that may not be ideal for all recipes.
- Cashews can be more expensive than dairy cream.
White Bean Puree
White bean puree is a creamy and versatile substitute for heavy cream that will transform your dishes with its delicate flavor and silky texture.
It’s incredibly easy to prepare; just blend cooked white beans with a bit of water until you achieve a smooth, luscious consistency. Organic cannellini beans from 365 by Whole Foods Market are an outstanding choice here.
Overall, white bean puree is a testament to the beauty of plant-based ingredients, bringing a richness that’s both satisfying and remarkably healthful.
Pros:
- White bean puree is packed with fiber and protein, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
- This puree can be used in a variety of dishes, ranging from savory to sweet, without altering the intended flavors.
Cons:
- Some may find the taste of white beans distinct and may require seasoning adjustments in their recipes.
- While it’s creamy, the texture may not perfectly mimic that of heavy cream and could affect the final product in some recipes.
- Individuals with bean allergies or digestive issues related to legumes may not be able to consume white bean puree.
Oat and Nut Butter
The harmonious blend of oat milk and nut butter opens up a new realm of creamy, vegan possibilities in your culinary adventures. As one of the best alternatives to heavy cream, it offers an excellent base for creamy soups.
You can also use it as a sumptuous addition to desserts that will leave your guests in awe.
For example, you can drizzle Michele’s Granola’s Oat & Nut Butter over your steaming pasta or swirl a spoonful into your morning coffee.
Pros:
- This combination is high in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, providing a significant nutrient boost.
- Oat milk and nut butter are more sustainable and have a lower carbon footprint than animal-derived products, making them better for the planet.
Cons:
- Nut butters can be problematic for individuals with nut allergies, limiting the suitability of this substitute for some.
- Nut butters are high in calories, which could be a concern for those monitoring their calorie intake.
Vegan Cream Cheese
Vegan cream cheeses can elevate your dishes with a delightful dairy-free zest. For instance, Kite Hill’s Plain Almond Milk Cream Cheese Style Spread paired with veggies or crackers is a fantastic option for a quick snack.
These products are crafted to mimic the classic taste and texture of traditional cream cheese, but without any animal byproducts. They spread effortlessly on a warm bagel and blend seamlessly into your favorite recipes, adding a creamy depth that’s both indulgent and comforting.
You’re not just limited to one type, either.
Vegan cream cheeses come in an array of flavors, ensuring there’s a perfect match for your palate.
Pros:
- Vegan cream cheeses often come from more sustainable and environmentally friendly sources than traditional dairy, as plant-based agriculture typically requires less water and land.
- These alternatives can provide a variety of flavors that may be healthier, as they’re frequently made with nuts and other nutrient-rich ingredients.
Cons:
- Some vegan cream cheeses might not melt or blend as well as their dairy counterparts.
- They can be more expensive than traditional cream cheese.
Store-Bought Options
Store-bought vegan heavy creams offer a variety of options to suit any recipe or taste preference. You can indulge in the rich, creamy textures that elevate your dishes, all the while ensuring your choices are kind to animals and the planet.
Silk’s Dairy-Free Heavy Whipping Cream Alternative
Silk’s Dairy-Free Heavy Whipping Cream Alternative is a game-changer. It whips up just like traditional cream, making it perfect for your desserts.
Pros:
- Mimics the whipping quality of traditional dairy cream.
- Versatile for various dessert recipes.
- It’s dairy-free, which is suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.
Cons:
- May not provide the exact same flavor as dairy cream, which some users might miss.
- Could contain additives or processed ingredients that health-conscious consumers may wish to avoid.
Happy Belly’s Powdered Non-Dairy Original Coffee Creamer
Happy Belly’s Powdered Non-Dairy Original Coffee Creamer is a product that, in many ways, surpasses the well-known name brands. It not only tastes superior, but also boasts a better texture.
Often, name brands leave an unpleasant gel-like residue. This alternative avoids that issue entirely, offering a pleasant and consistent experience.
Pros:
- Great value for the money.
- Blends smoothly into both hot and cold dishes.
Cons:
- The taste may differ from traditional cream, which could affect the final flavor profile of dishes.
- Some people don’t like the consistency it offers.
Califia Farms’ Dairy-Free Heavy Whip Substitute
For those who adore nutty undertones, Califia Farms offers a Dairy-Free Heavy Whip Substitute that’s almond-based and simply divine in taste.
Pros:
- Offers a unique nutty flavor that can enhance certain recipes.
- Made from almonds, which are a heart-healthy food option.
- It’s an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.
Cons:
- Contains nuts, which can be an allergen for some individuals.
- May not whip as well as dairy-based heavy cream.
Let’s Do Organic’s Heavy Coconut Cream
Finally, let’s not forget about Let’s Do Organic’s Heavy Coconut Cream, which comes chef-recommended for its impeccable performance in a range of recipes.
Pros:
- Has a chef’s recommendation for its versatility in cooking and baking.
- Suitable for a wide array of recipes from sweet to savory.
- It’s environmentally friendly and cruelty-free.
Cons:
- May have a different mouthfeel compared to dairy cream.
- The flavor mightn’t be to everyone’s liking, especially those used to traditional cream.
Conclusion
You’ve now discovered the nine vegan cream champions, each a culinary superstar in its own right.
Embrace the rich coconut milk, the silky tofu, the indulgent cashew cream, the smooth white bean puree, the hearty oat and nut butter, and the versatile vegan cream cheeses.
Your cooking’s about to get a deliciously creamy upgrade, so whip, blend, and indulge to your heart’s content.
Two More Recommendations for Your Plant-Based Journey
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