If you are out of coconut milk but need it for a recipe have no fear. In this article you will find the best substitutes for coconut milk that can be used no matter what you are making. You will find both lactose free and dairy alternatives for coconut milk.
Coconut milk can be used in many recipes, and it has become a very popular ingredient for those seeking a dairy free milk alternative.
It is a versatile ingredient that works in savory dishes as well as desserts. For that reason I have tested a number of alternatives for those times when I am out of coconut milk.
And no matter whether you need a dairy free coconut milk replacement or a milk based replacement, you will find all the best substitutes below.
So what are the best substitutes for coconut milk?
The top substitutions for coconut milk are almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, hemp milk, cashew milk, evaporated milk, spiced milk, rice milk, Greek yogurt, heavy cream, macadamia milk, and silken tofu.
Coconut Milk Alternatives
You are sure to have one of these coconut milk replacements at home. Read on for more info on each of these simple substitutions.
Almond Milk
Almond milk is an excellent dairy free substitute for coconut milk. Its nutty flavor goes well with a lot of recipes, and the texture is smooth and creamy.
While it does not offer coconut milk’s flavor profile, it is an excellent all-around alternative for coconut milk. Use a 1:1 ratio of almond milk to coconut milk.
Soy Milk
Soy is a great dairy free alternative for coconut milk because the flavor is very similar to coconut milk.
A 1:1 mixture of soy and coconut milk works well in most recipes.
Keep in mind, though, that soy milk is processed differently than coconut milk; therefore the ph balance will vary when just using soy milk.
Oat Milk
Oat milk is another excellent alternative for coconut milk.
The taste is similar to coconut milk, but the texture is thicker. It can be used in most recipes as a dairy free alternative to coconut milk. Again, use a 1:1 ratio for your recipe.
Hemp Milk
Hemp milk is another great dairy free substitute for coconut milk.
I use hemp milk as a substitute for non-dairy ice cream because it does not have the same amount of fat as other vegan milks, which makes it a better substitute for ice cream than some other healthy alternatives.
Oat milk is one of the best dairy free alternatives for coconut milk. It has a mild, nutty flavor which goes well with a lot of dishes.
Cashew Milk
Cashew milk is a wonderful dairy free alternative for coconut milk. It has a rich, creamy, and sweet flavor which pairs well with many dishes.
Again, use 1:1 ratio when substituting cashew milk for coconut milk in your recipes. While not as popular as other nut milks, cashew milk is a great ingredient to keep stocked.
It works wonderfully in so many recipes.
Evaporated Milk
Evaporated milk is another great substitute for coconut milk as long as you add in some more sweetener to it to balance out the reduced fat content of the evaporated version.
If you are not concerned with going dairy free, then this is my favorite coconut milk replacement. Use a 1:1 ratio.
Spiced Milk
Spiced Milk is another great alternative for coconut milk. It is not as sweet as other dairy options so it can be used in a variety of different recipes to give them a unique flavor.
I add in flaxseed and cinnamon to this milk to get that special flavor I love.
If you want to make your own, cut back on the water and add in more raw cashews, which will give it that creamy texture that you love while keeping the fat content low.
Rice Milk
I don’t ever use rice milk as a coconut milk substitute, but it is becoming a popular alternative.
A friend of mine primarily uses rice milk and while I haven’t used this one yet, I trust her culinary skills.
She uses a 1:1 ratio and it works wonderfully in any dessert recipe.
Greek Yogurt
Many people use Greek yogurt as a coconut milk substitute, and it works quite well.
It works in so many recipes but it’s my go to coconut milk substitute for making smoothies. It is quite thick and creamy making it a great alternative for those rich and creamy recipes.
Use a 1:1 ratio of Greek yogurt to coconut milk.
Heavy Cream
This is another excellent dairy alternative for coconut milk.
While it has a much higher fat content than coconut milk, it works when used at a 1:1 ratio.
It will provide your recipe with a thick and creamy consistency that is perfect for many dessert dishes.
Macadamia Milk
This delicious nut milk is often overlooked for the more popular almond milk and cashew milk. But it is an excellent coconut milk replacement.
It has a smooth consistency and unique flavor that suits any dessert recipe. Simply use a 1:1 ratio in your recipe and it will work beautifully.
Silken Tofu
While tofu is not technically a milk, it can work as an excellent substitute for coconut milk.
I do not use tofu as a substitute for coconut milk very often, but I have seen it used in a lot of recipes.
You will need to cut the ratio in half since you will only use about 2 tablespoons of tofu for every 1/4 cup of coconut milk that the recipe calls for.
Bottom Line
Coconut milk is a great ingredient to keep in stock.
Use it to make creamy desserts, smoothies, creamy desserts, and even in baking. It is a versatile ingredient that will be your go to for all of the sweet recipes you make.
But when you are all out of coconut milk and need a replacement use one of the above substitutions and your recipe will taste dreamy!