Coconut cream is used in all types of recipes. From pies and tarts, to seafood, and savory dishes.
If you are making a dish that calls for coconut cream but you are all out, no need to fear. There are numerous substitutes you can use in place of coconut cream.
Coconut cream is produced by taking the meat of a coconut and pureeing it in water.
Coconut cream is high in fat, so when replacing it you will need an alternative with a similar fat content.
So what are the best substitutes for coconut cream?
The top coconut cream substitutes are coconut milk, cream of coconut, Greek yogurt, heavy whipping cream, and nut butter.
Coconut Cream Alternatives
Coconut cream is a sweet byproduct of coconut that offers a sweet flavor and creamy texture to all types of recipes.
No matter if you are making dinner or dessert, you will find the best replacement below. Be sure to read how to best use each substitute as well.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is made by blending coconut with water. It has a slightly lower fat content than coconut cream so your recipe will turn out lighter when using coconut milk.
That is likely not an issue unless your recipe calls for whipped coconut cream. In which case a thicker substitute will be needed.
Coconut milk is quite versatile and works in all types of recipes. It is the best overall substitute for coconut cream and is also vegan.
Equivalent
1 cup of coconut cream equals 1 cup of coconut water
Cream of Coconut
Despite their similar names, coconut cream and cream of coconut are two different products. Cream of coconut is thicker and sweeter than coconut cream. It works in all types of recipes that use coconut cream but is particularly well suited for dishes calling for whipped coconut cream.
Because of the increased sweetness, you may want to reduce the amount of others sugars in your recipe when using cream of coconut.
Related: Cream of Coconut vs Coconut Cream
Equivalent
1 cup of coconut cream equals 1 cup of cream of coconut
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt can be used in all recipes that call for coconut cream except those that require you to boil your yogurt.
Yogurt will curdle when heated so another option will be needed if your recipe calls for boiling your coconut cream substitute.
Add a dash of flour or cornstarch to your yogurt. This will improve it’s stability and add your Greek yogurt at the end of your recipe for the best results.
Equivalent
1 cup of coconut cream equals 1 cup of Greek yogurt
Heavy Whipping Cream
Heavy whipping cream has a higher fat content than coconut cream but still works in all types of recipes. It is particularly well suited for recipes that call for whipped coconut cream.
This dairy product is not vegan friendly but if you have no dietary restrictions for dairy it is the best all around coconut cream substitute.
It will add flavor and texture to any recipe and is versatile.
Related: Dairy Free Substitutes for Heavy Cream
Equivalent
1 cup of coconut cream equals 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
Nut Butter
Nut butter is a great sub in baked goods. It offers a flavor and texture that compliments most baked recipes.
You can use cashew butter, peanut butter, hazelnut butter, and even tahini. When using nut butters, add a touch of water and whip it prior to adding it to your recipe.
Equivalent
1 cup of coconut cream equals 1 cup of nut butter
Coconut Cream Replacement FAQ
How to Make Homemade Coconut Milk
If you do not have access to the other coconut cream substitutes you can make coconut milk at home. It is simple and all you need is unsweetened shredded coconut and water.
Put about four cups of coconut and four cups of water in your blender and process for about five minutes.
Now use your homemade coconut at a 1:1 ratio in place of coconut cream.
Can you use milk in place of coconut cream?
Yes, milk can be used in place of coconut cream. Milk will produce a lighter final product. As long as you can consume dairy, milk is a good substitute for coconut cream.
Can you substitute coconut milk for coconut cream when baking?
Yes. Coconut milk can be used to replace coconut cream when baking. Coconut milk contains less fat than coconut cream so your baked goods will be lighter and thinner than when made with coconut cream.
Can you substitute coconut yogurt for coconut cream?
Yes coconut cream can be replaced with coconut yogurt. A 1:1 ratio should be used. Coconut yogurt can be used in most recipes that call for coconut cream.
Substitute for coconut cream in pina coladas?
The best substitutes for coconut cream in pina coladas are coconut milk, coconut syrup, cream of coconut, or coconut liqueur.
What are vegan coconut cream alternatives?
Vegan coconut cream substitutions include coconut milk and cream of coconut.
What can you substitute for coconut cream in curry?
To retain the coconut flavor in curry use light whipping cream with coconut extract. For a texture replacement use Greek yogurt.
What are keto substitutes for coconut cream?
Coconut water and cream of coconut are keto substitutes for coconut cream.