The Best Non Dairy Cream Substitute

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When you’re cooking or baking without dairy, finding the right non dairy cream substitute for heavy cream is key. Here are several vegan options that can help you achieve the rich, creamy texture you crave without any dairy products involved.

Looking for a non-dairy coffee creamer? Try my Gingerbread Coffee Creamer Recipe  or Pumpkin Spice Dairy-Free Creamer .

Keep reading for simple ways to substitute heavy cream.

Before I lost 125 pounds, I loved sugary coffee creamer, creamy soups, and whipped cream on desserts. Now that I eat a vegan diet and have lost weight, I have discovered the best dairy-free cream replacements, and I’ll share the best vegan alternative for your favorite recipes.  

Before I share the best non dairy cream substitute, please take a quick second to subscribe to my Intentionally Eat newsletter. It contains tips and recipes to help you live your healthiest life, plus you’ll get a FREE acid/alkaline chart to show you which foods you should eat for optimum health.

The Best Non Dairy Cream Substitute for Savory Recipes

Non-dairy Milk + Neutral Oil

One of the easiest ways to mimic heavy cream in your recipes is by combining non-dairy milk (like soy milk, almond milk, rice milk, oat milk, or cashew milk) with a neutral oil with a mild flavor. This mixture is a great option in savory recipes, sauces, and soups. While it’s not a heavy whipping cream alternative, it does provide a creamy consistency similar to regular milk and butter.

Ratio to use:

• 2 parts plant-based milk to 1 part neutral oil.

For a more flavorful alternative, swap the neutral oil for olive oil, which has a slightly peppery taste and is great in savory dishes.

A drizzle of this non-dairy cream substitute is amazing in this vegan tomato soup recipe.

Cashews + Water

Vegan cashew cream is a good dairy-free substitute for vegans looking for a rich, neutral, and versatile heavy cream substitute. It’s simple to make and can be used in everything from Alfredo sauce to Caesar dressing to soups. Its thick texture makes it perfect for adding creaminess to almost anything.

How to Make Cashew Cream:

• Soak 1 cup of raw cashews in water for a few hours or overnight.
• Drain and blend with ¾ cup water in a high speed blender until smooth.

This homemade cashew cream is made from simple ingredients, making it a wholesome, delicious substitute for dairy cream.

You’ll love these delicious soup recipes, too!

5 Ingredient Crock Pot Potato Soup

Dairy Free Cream of Mushroom Soup

Vegan Black Bean Soup Recipe

The Best Non Dairy Cream Substitute for Sweet Recipes

Silken Tofu + Soy Milk

Silken tofu blended with soy milk is a fantastic vegan option that mimics the texture of traditional heavy cream. Since tofu is high in protein, it helps provide the structure for a thick consistency you typically find in traditional cream. This combination is a great alternative for sweet recipes with pudding-like textures, such as cheesecakes or silk pies.

Instructions:

• Blend equal parts silken tofu and soy milk until smooth.
• Adjust the soy milk amount to get the desired consistency.

This is a great substitute in baked goods and dessert recipes but isn’t ideal for sauces or soups.

Whipped Coconut Cream

Whipped coconut cream is a rich, creamy, and incredible non-dairy substitute for traditional whipped cream. It’s made by chilling a can of full-fat coconut milk, allowing the fatty cream to rise to the top. The cream can then be whipped into a fluffy, dairy-free topping. This whipped coconut cream is perfect for desserts, cakes, pies, or as a garnish for hot drinks.

How to Make Whipped Coconut Cream:

• Place a can of full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream in the fridge overnight.
• Open the can and scoop out the solidified coconut cream that rises to the top. Use the remaining liquid in delicious smoothies like these.
• Use a stand or hand mixer and blend the coconut cream until it becomes light and airy. 
• Add 1-2 tablespoons of sweetener like maple syrup or organic vegan powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
• Continue whipping until everything is fully combined and fluffy. 

Keep in mind this process can take up to 10 minutes of whipping to achieve a nice whipped cream texture. 

Coconut Cream

Full-fat coconut cream is an excellent vegan substitute for super creamy and rich foods. It’s made by chilling a can of full-fat coconut milk, which causes the fatty cream to separate and rise to the top. This thickened portion can be scooped out and used as a heavy cream replacement. It works wonderfully in curries, soups, and desserts.

How to Use Coconut Cream:

• Place a can of full-fat coconut milk in the fridge overnight.
• Open the can and scoop out the solidified coconut cream that rises to the top. The remaining liquid can be saved for smoothies like this one.

Remember that coconut cream has a subtle coconut flavor, so it’s best used in recipes where that flavor will complement the dish.

Silken Tofu + Soy Milk (Whipped Cream Option)

If you’re looking for a vegan alternative to whipped cream, silken tofu combined with soy milk is a great choice. This blend is high in protein, which not only gives it a creamy texture but also allows it to be whipped into a fluffy topping. Add a bit of vanilla extract or sugar for sweetness to make a perfect homemade whipped cream for desserts like pies, cakes, and hot chocolate.

Whipped Tofu Cream Instructions:

1. Blend 1 cup of silken tofu and 1 cup of soy milk until you reach a smooth texture.
2. Add 2-3 Tablespoons of a sweetener (like organic vegan powdered sugar or maple syrup) and a dash of vanilla if desired.
3. Whip with a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form.

This whipped tofu cream can be used as a topping for cakes and pies or as a dip for fruit!

You’ll love these easy desserts, too!

Chocolate No Bake Tofu Cheesecake Recipe

Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie Recipe

The Easiest Healthy Banana Bread Recipe (No Sugar)

Edible Vegan Dairy Free Cookie Dough Recipe

❓Others have asked

What can be used in place of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for the best multi-purpose dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, blending non-dairy milk and oil is a good option. However, it is not a good option for whipped cream. If you want a non-dairy whipping cream, look at the abovementioned recipes and use the silken tofu and soy milk combination or the coconut cream recipe.

What is a substitute for 1 cup of heavy cream?

It depends on the recipe and whether you want a sweet or savory substitute. A simple savory option is blending 2/3 cup of soy milk with 1/3 cup of olive oil. For a sweet recipe, the best option is to blend 1/2 cup of silken tofu and 1/2 cup of soy milk.

Before I say goodbye, I encourage you to take a moment to find out how I went from obese with a crippling back injury to 125-pound lighter -discover my transformation into a health coach!

About The Author

Although Cindy has lost 125 pounds, her path to success was not easy. Go here to read her incredible story, “From Morbidly Obese to Losing 125 Pounds and Becoming a Health Coach.” If you want to send Cindy a quick message, visit her contact page here.

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​Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a medical professional. The information provided on this blog is based on my personal experiences and research as a vegan recipe enthusiast. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns. The recipes and tips shared on this blog are meant for general informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always prioritize your health and well-being by seeking personalized guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.