If you're out of BEST Whipped Cream, reach for Regular Cream, Greek Yogurt, Butter and Milk, Heavy Coconut Cream, and Crème Fraiche.
Regular Cream
While regular cream and whipping cream are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between the two.
For cooking, Greek Yogurt also works well - adjust the amount to taste.
Sometimes, you open your fridge, ready to whip up something sweet and realize - oops, no whipped cream.
Not a problem!
You don't need to scrap your dessert dreams just yet.
There are some fantastic whipped cream substitutes out there that you might not have considered.
We're here to share our top 5 picks that are not only easy to find but will make your desserts pop just as much as traditional whipped cream.
Trust us, you're about to become the dessert hero in your circle.
With these alternatives, you'll unlock a whole new level of dessert magic.
And who knows? You might even find a new favorite among them.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Whipped Cream
If you're out of whipped cream or just looking for a lighter, healthier alternative, there are plenty of substitutes that can do the trick.
Here are five of the best:
1 - Regular Cream
While regular cream and whipping cream are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between the two.
Regular cream has a richer flavor and thicker texture while whipping cream is lighter and airier.
In addition, regular cream is fatter than whipping cream, which makes it easier to whip into stiff peaks.
As a result, regular cream is often the better choice for baking or when you want a thick, creamy texture.
To substitute regular cream for whipped cream, simply whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks.
Be sure to use a chilled bowl and refrigerate the cream until it is very cold before beginning to whip.
With a little patience and careful whisking, you can easily create a delicious homemade whipped cream that is perfect for topping pies, cupcakes, or even ice cream.
2 - Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a delicious and healthy alternative to other high-fat dairy products.
It has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly tart flavor that is perfect for topping off fruit or granola.
Greek yogurt is also an excellent substitute for whipped cream.
Simply combine Greek yogurt with honey and vanilla extract, and then chill in the fridge for an hour.
When you are ready to serve, simply spoon the mixture into a piping bag and pipe it onto your favorite dessert.
Greek yogurt is a flexible ingredient that can help you create healthy and delicious meals.
3 - Butter and Milk
Butter and milk may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of whipped cream, but in a pinch, they can be used as a substitute.
When whipped, both butter and milk will thicken and become light and airy.
The texture will be slightly different from traditional whipped cream - it will be denser and less smooth - but the taste will be similar.
If you need to substitute butter and milk for whipped cream, simply combine them in a bowl and whisk until stiff peaks form.
Then, add sugar to taste and use as you would traditional whipped cream.
With a little bit of creative thinking, you can turn any kitchen pantry staples into something special.
4 - Heavy Coconut Cream
Heavy coconut cream is a delicious, dairy-free alternative to whipped cream.
It has a rich, creamy texture that is perfect for topping desserts or adding to coffee.
While it can be difficult to find in stores, heavy coconut cream is easy to make at home.
Simply place a can of full-fat coconut milk in the fridge overnight.
The next day, open the can and scoop out the thick, creamy layer that has formed on top.
Whip the cream until it is light and fluffy, then use it as you would any other type of whipped cream.
Heavy coconut cream is a versatile vegan ingredient that can be used in sweet or savory dishes.
5 - Crème Fraiche
Crème Fraiche is a French-style cream that has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor.
It's perfect for topping fruits or desserts, and it can also be used in place of whipped cream.
Crème Fraiche is made by adding starter cultures to heavy cream and allowing the mixture to ferment.
The result is a thick, creamy mixture that has a slightly sour taste.
While Crème Fraiche can be purchased at most grocery stores, it's also easy to make at home.
Simply whisk together heavy cream and sour cream, then allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 24 hours.
After that, simply refrigerate the mixture until it's thick and creamy.
Crème Fraiche can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.
You might also want to know how whipped cream compares.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regular Cream, Greek Yogurt, Butter and Milk, Heavy Coconut Cream, and Crème Fraiche. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for BEST Whipped Cream.
Absolutely. Regular Cream is the closest swap.
Greek Yogurt also works in a pinch. Match the original amount and tweak from there.
Can this substitute be used in baking as well as cooking?
Some work in both, but baking is less forgiving.
Substitutes that alter fat content, sweetness, or moisture can shift the structure of baked goods.
Test with a small batch first.
Frozen substitutes sometimes change texture after thawing. This matters more in raw applications like salads than in cooked dishes where texture is softened by heat anyway.