One item that is invariably used in different cuisines across the globe is heavy cream. But you’re one of those keen on following a vegan diet that is a different concept from vegetarian diet, yet do not wish to cut back on any of your favorite dishes, hence looking for a heavy cream substitute is something that can get you going while simultaneously helping you pursue your culinary endeavors. Whether it is your morning cup of coffee or any dish that needs a creamy topping, this option has got to be there! Thick, velvety, and smooth, these alternatives are in no way less than the traditional cream, if not better!
While some of these heavy vegan substitutes come pretty easily at home, others might need a bit of elbow greasing at the behest. However, one thing you can be sure of is that the taste would be as luscious as the regular heavy cream, whether you dollop it on your favorite dish or use it as a dip.
But before we delve deeper into these options, let’s see what exactly a vegan heavy cream is!
What is Vegan Heavy Cream?
Whipping cream substitute is a non-dairy alternative to regular heavy cream. These are made from plant-based ingredients and can be used in a wide array of items such as soups, baked goods, and other sumptuous dishes that calls for a rich and creamy texture.
The best part about using these vegan alternatives is that they lend the same flavor and consistency to that of a traditional heavy cream along with offering several health benefits due to their plant-based origin.
Table of Substitutes
| Method | Ingredients | To Be Used In |
| Non-Dairy Milk and Vegan Oil | 2/3 cup milk, and 1/3 cup oil | Soups, baked items, sauces |
| Non-Dairy Milk and Cornstarch | 1 cup plant-based milk, and 2 tbsp cornstarch | Chowders, casseroles, and cream sauces |
| Coconut Cream | 1 cup canned full-fat coconut milk | Baked goods and soups |
| Silken Tofu and Soy Milk | 1 cup of silken tofu, and Dairy-free milk | Soups and Baked items |
| White Bean Cream | 1 cup cooked beans and water | Soups |
| Cashew Cream | Onion and vegan Oil | Sauces, baked goods and soups |
| Onion Cream | 1 cup brown rice cooked in vegetable broth and dairy-free milk | Soups and sauces |
| Non-dairy Milk and Brown Rice | 1 cup brown rice cooked in vegetable broth and Dairy-free milk | Soups |
| Plant-based Milk and Vegan Yogurt | 2/3 cup of non-dairy yogurt, and 1/3 cup of plant-based milk | Rice dish and sauces |
| Vegan Cream Cheese | Soaked cashews,1/3 cup water, and 2 tbsp vegan yogurt | Pasta and sauces |
| Oat Milk and Vegan Butter | 2/3 cup of oat milk, and 1/3 cup vegan butter(melted) | Sauces, soups and baked items |
| Store-bought Vegan Heavy Creams | Per Instructions | Soups, baked items, sauces |
Top 12 Heavy Cream Substitutes
With numerous options available for you, choosing the best vegan heavy cream alternative might be pretty daunting. As such, we have cut the clutter and mentioned some of the top options that you can make on your own and go for without a second thought:-
1. Non-Dairy Milk and Vegan Oil
A healthy alternative to dairy-free heavy cream, non-dairy milk and vegan oil can serve the purpose. Although this substitute cannot be whipped, it does add a rich texture similar to dairy milk and butter options. Replicating traditional cream, this heavy cream alternative serves as a flavorful and appetizing delight; only the key is to use mild-tasting vegan oil that does not interfere with the original taste of the recipe in any manner.
As such, using coconut, avocado, olive oil, or even butter can add up to the dishes of your choice in a subtle yet effective way, thus, enhancing the flavor and texture of the dishes, especially sauces, and soups. Being a milk and butter heavy cream substitute, this option can ratchet up any dish of your choice.
Ways to Use It:
To make 1 cup of vegan home-based cream, you’ll need:-
- ⅔ cup dairy-free milk
- ⅓ cup vegan oil or melted vegan butter
Add all the ingredients to a bowl and mix everything well using a whisk. Your cream is ready to use.
2. Non-Dairy Milk and Cornstarch
If you’re someone who’s not been much into cornstarch and plant-based milk, then you’re in for a big surprise and an even bigger treat. While the starchy powder helps give a greatly thick and smooth consistency when used with any liquid, its non-dairy companion gives healthy nutrients to the vegan cream that gets made when they are combined.
A great option if you wish to add viscosity to your dishes, this alternative does not add fat and maintains its form throughout the cooking process, even when they get cooled. You can use this vegan cream in chowders, casseroles, and cream sauces without experiencing the clumping of ingredients that usually occurs with other heavy cream alternatives.
Ways to Use It:
To make one cup of non-dairy milk and cornstarch heavy cream, you’ll need:-
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
To make the cream, heat the milk and add cornstarch, whisking it continuously, till the desired consistency is achieved.
3. Coconut Cream
Being a great heavy cream substitute, Coconut cream can level up your dishes without a doubt. With a similar texture to heavy cream, this alternative does not require multiple ingredients to get prepared. One of the simplest substitutes, Coconut cream adds a buttery richness to the recipes as traditional cream would. The lucrative part about this vegan option is that it can also be used as a whipped cream as and when required.
Unlike other non-dairy options, coconut cream is ideal for baked items that require whipping. It can also be used in soups or other recipes that possess enough flavors to overpower the taste of coconut.
Ways to Use It:
To make vegan heavy coconut cream, you need to have
- 1 cup canned full-fat coconut milk
Use an equal amount of pure coconut cream in a 1:1 ratio to the traditional heavy cream.
4. Silken Tofu and Soy Milk
A low-fat, non-dairy heavy cream substitute, Silken Tofu, and Soy Milk is another option you can go for when you think of making a home-based heavy cream substitute. While tofu blends with other ingredients easily as it has a delicate texture, soy milk lends the much-needed liquid base to the dishes. Being a healthier option compared to the traditional heavy cream, Tofu, and Soy milk makes for a good addition to any cuisine they are invariably used in.
With a neutral flavor, the substitute works well with sauces and also when you’re putting your hands into making some delicious Asian dishes.
Ways to use It:
To make a cup of plant-based heavy cream, you’ll need:-
- 1 cup of silken tofu
- Dairy-free milk
Add silken tofu along with a small amount of milk and begin blending. Add more milk if needed until the mixture becomes thin and gains a smooth consistency. Your cream is ready.
5. White Bean Cream
A non-dairy substitute for heavy cream, White Bean makes a sumptuous swap in an array of cuisines. Lending a creamy result, this alternative can add exoticism to the dishes they get used to without much hassle. Adding nutrition to the items, the white bean is a healthy addition to an everyday diet. Providing a neutral flavor and color to the cuisines, this substitute does not affect the taste of the dishes in any manner. With great consistency, you can add them to dishes that call for rich texture.
You can use white bean cream to make sumptuous soups or even side dishes of your choice that need a creamy topping.
Ways to Use It:
To make a cup of white bean cream, you’ll need
- A cup of cooked white beans
- Water
Add the cooked and drained beans to a blender with minimal water that can help with the blending process. Add more water in between, until you get a thick yet smooth cream-like consistency.
6. Cashew Cream
A vegan alternative to heavy cream, Cashew cream is an excellent option for vegans out there. Hitting the right textural note, this substitute adds richness to the dishes as it is blessed with natural oils. Being neutral in flavor, it can be added to any dish without shadowing the real taste of the recipe. Providing the creamiest texture and consistency, it is a versatile alternative that is easy to make and delectable to have without much ado.
You can use cashew cream in recipes that call for thickness, such as soups, vegan cheese sauces, purees, and beverages. Serving as one of the best heavy cream substitutes for cake, the cream works wonders in other baked items too.
Ways to Use It:
To make a cup of vegan heavy cashew cream, you’ll need
- 3/4th cup of soaked cashews
- A dash of salt
- 1/4 cup of water
Begin by soaking the cashews for at least two hours. Drain, rinse, and put the cashews in the blender along with 1/4 cup of water. You can put in more water to get the consistency of your choice. Add a pinch of salt to get a taste similar to that of a traditional cream.
7. Onion Cream
A heavy cream substitute, Onion cream can do wonders when you wish to add that extra richness to your soups or other onion-friendly savory dishes such as pasta, risotto, and mashed potatoes. Serving as a healthy alternative to heavy cream, it is extremely versatile and gives a creamy base to cuisines. Being a kitchen staple, it is one of the best options for you to choose when you want a quick substitute for heavy cream in your cuisine.
Adding flavor to recipes, Onion cream gives a similar thickness and consistency to that of regular heavy cream.
Ways to Use It:
To make one cup of heavy cream, you’ll need:-
- 1 onion
- Vegan oil
- Lemon juice
- A dash of salt
To prepare onion cream, coat the oil over the onion and bake it for about 40 minutes at 400 degrees. Make sure the onion’s skin is soft but dark in color. Let the onion cool down and then peel it off. Blend it until smooth. Now, add oil, salt, and lemon juice to taste.
If you’re baking more than one onion at a time, you can freeze it for future use.
8. Non-dairy Milk and Brown Rice
Preparing vegan heavy cream at home, non-dairy milk, and brown rice is a good option for you while you make your favorite dishes. Creating a velvety-smooth texture, this option is extremely healthy and a great way to add richness to the various recipes. Possessing a nutty flavor, this alternative lends a smooth consistency that is hard to resist. Since this substitute does not curdle, you can be confident that your dish will not be spoilt in the end.
A dairy-free alternative, this option can be used along with numerous dishes per your liking, adding a subtle and luscious taste to them.
Ways to Use It:
To make 1 cup of vegan non-dairy milk and brown rice heavy cream, you need to have:-
- 1 cup brown rice cooked in vegetable broth
- Dairy-free milk
Start by cooking the rice in a vegetable broth. Once it gets done, add the rice into a blender along with a small amount of vegan milk and start blending. Keep on adding the milk as required till you get a smooth consistency.
9. Plant-based Milk and Vegan Yogurt
A delectable whipping cream substitute, vegan yogurt and plant-based milk like oat milk are ideal options when you’re trying to swap heavy cream in your dish. With great thickness, this alternative is a healthier choice in terms of its fat content, which is precisely low compared to regular heavy cream. This substitute contains some healthy monosaturated fat which is yet another reason why you should turn towards this creamy plant-based item.
To make a cup of this healthy cream, you need to have:-
You can use them in rice dishes, and sauces of your choice that need rich texture and consistency. Being one of the best heavy cream substitutes for baking, this item can work wonders in any cuisine.
Ways to Use It:
- 2/3 cup of non-dairy yogurt
- 1/3 cup of plant-based milk
Combine both the ingredients and stir well until you get a texture and consistency similar to that of heavy cream. In between, you can add more milk if required.
10. Vegan Cream Cheese
A non-dairy heavy cream alternative, the Vegan Cream Cheese can fulfill your creamy cravings instantly. Being a good thickening agent, it works well with a variety of cuisines. Since it can alter the taste of the recipe, it is recommended to use them in dishes in which the flavors tend to work together. Given a silky and creamy finish, this decadent option can add to any occasion in no time. With fewer calories than regular cream, it is ideal to be included in an everyday diet.
You can use Vegan cream cheese in numerous dishes, especially in different types of soups. It also serves as an excellent substitute for heavy cream in pasta.
Ways to Use It:
To make a cup of vegan cream cheese, you’ll need:-
- Soaked cashews
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 tbsp vegan yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp white miso paste
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup refined coconut oil
Add the soaked cashews in a blender and other ingredients except the coconut oil. Blend everything until smooth and add more water to get the right consistency. Add more lemon juice if required and once you get the desired flavor, add the coconut oil. Transfer the concoction to a container and let it chill for about 2 hours. You can store it in a sealed container for up to one week.
11. Oat Milk and Vegan Butter
A dairy-free heavy cream substitute, oat milk, and vegan butter can be a great option for you and your dishes. Blessed with a natural creamy consistency, the alternative is not too sweet. Soy, lactose, and nut-free, Oat milk combined with vegan butter give a mild taste that does not interfere with the authentic flavor of the dish, thus allowing you to relish the real taste with a creamy topping.
As such, this cream made from oat milk and vegan butter can be used for making sauces, and soups. It can also be substituted for milk in pancakes.
Ways to Use It:
So, how to make heavy cream alternative with oat milk and vegan butter?
Well, all you need to have is:-
- 2/3 cup of oat milk
- 1/3 cup vegan butter(melted)
- A small amount of sugar
Pour oat milk into the blender along with the melted butter and add a dash of sugar. Blend until smooth. You’ll be left with a rich cream at the end.
12. Store-bought Vegan Heavy Creams
One of the easiest vegan cream options you can go for is undoubtedly store-bought creams. With a rapid inclination towards plant-based eating, more ready-made substitutes are doing the rounds in the market that suffice the purpose.
So, if making your own cream at home seems too much for you, you can go to your nearest store and grab various brands that manufacture these vegan alternatives. Most of these products carry vegan milk along with sweeteners, thickeners, and added flavor.
Ways to Use It:
You can substitute any amount of heavy cream with an equal quantity of the vegan option, which makes a 1:1 ratio.
As such, with at least one of these substitutes, you’re sure to find the ideal match for your dishes without much hassle. Over time you can also experiment and find new ways to make things work per your choice, but as of now you can go on and try these luscious alternatives easily.
Ways to Use Heavy Cream Substitutes
Using a vegan alternative to heavy cream can ratchet up your culinary repertoire and add to the taste of the dishes you make. Well, here are some of the ways by which you can make use of these substitutes at home:-
- You can add these alternatives while making soups to give a velvety, thick texture to the dish.
- To make creamy and rich pasta sauces, add heavy cream alternatives.
- Substitutes can be used to make moist cakes and desserts that require heavy cream in batter or frosting. These vegan options can provide a similar texture to your goodies.
- To top off your special fruit salads or pies, use the vegan whipped cream and enjoy the same luscious taste as that of a regular heavy cream.
Pro Tips
Well, to help you succeed in substituting the different vegan alternatives to heavy cream, here are some of the tips you can follow:-
- Try using full-fat coconut cream as it will add an extra creamy texture to your dishes.
- Blend any mixture until the time you don’t get a smooth consistency.
- After completing your blending process, let your cream chill in the fridge for about an hour, so that it thickens nicely.
- Avoid adding acidic ingredients such as vinegar or citrus juices to your vegan cream as they can lead to clumps and watery liquid at the end.
- If possible, try to induce your cream at the end of your recipe because the longer the cream cooks, the more it separates, which affects the texture of the dish.
- Try using raw cashews while making the cashew cream instead of roasted or salted cashews as they are better at emulating the taste of traditional heavy cream.
Storage Tips
You can store the vegan heavy whipping cream in an airtight container or jar and keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week. You need to give it a stir before using it.
The cream can be poured into an ice cube tray and can be kept in the freezer for a month or two. You can give a quick blend to your vegan option and you’re good to go.
Vegan Heavy Cream Brands
Apart from making your vegan cream at home, you can choose certain plant-based creams from some of the popular brands that have been mentioned below:-
1. Hoosier Hill Farm
Hoosier Hill Farm is a renowned company that has made sure that no animals are sacrificed for your palate’s treat. As such, they have come up with Hoosier Hill Farm Heavy Cream Powder Jar, a vegan heavy cream that can be added to soups, baked goods, and even homemade ice-creams per your liking.
Buy the Product from here
2. Califia Farms
Another popular company that makes vegan alternatives to heavy cream is Califia Farms. Their Califia Farms Oat Barista Blend is a true delight and can be used in cooking and baking likewise, and can be used especially in lattes.
Buy the Product from here
3. Anthony’s Organic
Anthony’s Organic Coconut Milk Powder is a great option as it is non-GMO and gluten-free, which makes it apt for vegans and people with certain allergies. This heavy cream substitute is good for a wide variety of dishes.
Buy the Product from here
4. Let’s Do Organic
Organic Heavy Coconut Cream by Let’s Do Organic brand is one of a kind. A perfect vegan substitute for heavy cream, this alternative can be used to make delectable soups, sauces, curries, beverages, and even desserts.
Buy the Product from here
5. Bulletproof
Bulletproof is yet another brand that has its Bulletproof Original Creamer, which is an ideal vegan cream option. Smooth and creamy, it does not contain sweeteners, sugar, or artificial fillers.
Buy the Product from here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What can vegans use instead of heavy cream?
Today, vegans have multiple options to choose from when it comes to substituting heavy cream. They can make use of store-bought vegan cream that can easily suffice the purpose or can make their own cream at home.
Where does vegan cream come from?
Vegan creams come from plant-based ingredients instead of dairy milk. Their bases are precisely made from oats, soya, or cashew nuts.
Are vegan creams healthy?
Yes, compared to dairy-based creams, vegan creams are healthier. Since they are plant-based, they contain low saturated fat and zero cholesterol.
Does vegan cream have any benefits?
Since vegan cream is made from plant extractions, it has numerous benefits. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, it not only help nourish the skin but also makes it look fresh for a long time.
What does vegan cream taste like?
Most Vegan cream does not possess any taste and therefore, has a neutral taste. It can thus be used in a variety of dishes except coconut cream which can have an overpowering taste to it.
Is there a commercial alternative to heavy cream?
Yes, there exist several brands from where you can buy dairy-free heavy cream made from natural ingredients, i.e., plant-based extractions.
What are some of the most popular vegan heavy cream brands?
Numerous brands cater to the needs of the vegan community, but two of the most popular options you can go for are Hoosier Hill Farm, which has its Hoosier Hill Farm Heavy Cream Powder Jar, and Califia Farms, which has its Califia Farms Oat Barista Blend.
Does a vegan substitute for heavy cream work the same as regular cream?
Yes, vegan cream works just as well as any regular heavy cream. It lends the same texture and consistency, similar to that of the traditional cream in the dishes they are used in.
Does vegan cream work well in baked goods?
Yes, vegan cream can be used for baking purposes. They also work as a good addition to desserts.
Are heavy cream alternatives good for the environment?
Yes, vegan creams are good for the environment as they are made from plant-based ingredients that require less land and water and cause less pollution than animal products.
What is a vegan substitute for half and half?
A vegan substitute for half and half is coconut cream and soy milk.
What is the best plant-based milk for cream?
Oat milk is considered one of the best plant-based milk for cream apart from soy and nut milk.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can use vegan milk combined with vegan butter instead of heavy cream in any dish of your choice.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in a sauce?
You can use coconut cream, and plant-based milk and vegan yogurt in sauce in place of heavy cream.
Takeaway (Final Thoughts)
Serving as an ideal recourse for people out there, the mentioned healthy substitute for heavy cream has been meeting the needs and expectations of people for a long time now. A great way to prepare sumptuous dishes without losing on to the desired flavor and texture, the item is easy-to-make at home with and already available ingredients leads to minimalistic leaving and leads you to not buying from store-bought options.
So, no matter what culinary combinations you’re looking for, the mentioned alternatives are sure to drizzle your dish in a glitzy-ritzy way!
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