Best Coconut Cream Substitutes | Vegan & Dairy Options
The best substitute for coconut cream is Full-Fat Coconut Milk at a Refrigerate can, use thick top layer ratio. It works best for curries, desserts, soups. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Full-Fat Coconut Milk
Refrigerate can, use thick top layer
Chill canned coconut milk overnight and scoop the solidified cream from the top. Nearly identical to coconut cream.
What are the other substitutes for coconut cream?
Heavy Cream
1:1
Provides similar richness but lacks coconut flavor. Add coconut extract if desired. Not suitable for vegan diets.
Cashew Cream
1:1
Blend soaked cashews with water until smooth for a vegan, nut-based cream with neutral flavor.
Silken Tofu Blended
1:1
Blend silken tofu until smooth for a protein-rich, vegan cream alternative. Flavor is neutral, works in savory dishes.
What should you know before substituting coconut cream?
For best results, always use full-fat coconut milk or cream rather than light versions. When making curries, fry curry paste in the thick coconut cream first to release oils and intensify flavor before adding the thinner coconut milk.
How do you substitute coconut cream in a recipe?
Coconut cream is the thick, rich fat layer that rises to the top of coconut milk, used in Thai curries, desserts, and tropical beverages. It provides luxurious creaminess and subtle coconut flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.
The best substitute for coconut cream depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Full-Fat Coconut Milk (Refrigerate can, use thick top layer), which works well for curries, desserts, soups.
If you need a different option, Heavy Cream (1:1) is another reliable choice. Provides similar richness but lacks coconut flavor. Add coconut extract if desired. Not suitable for vegan diets.
When substituting coconut cream, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
What can you use instead of coconut cream in specific recipes?
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of coconut cream?
Refrigerate a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight and scoop the thick cream that rises to the top. This is nearly identical to coconut cream. For dairy options, use heavy cream in equal amounts.
Is coconut cream the same as coconut milk?
No, coconut cream is much thicker and richer than coconut milk, containing more coconut fat and less water. However, you can make coconut cream by chilling coconut milk and using only the thick layer that solidifies on top.
Can I make coconut cream from shredded coconut?
Yes, blend 2 cups shredded coconut with 1 cup hot water, let steep 5 minutes, then strain through cheesecloth, squeezing to extract all liquid. Chill and use the thick cream layer.