Substitute for Crème Anglaise: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for crème anglaise is Pastry cream (crème pâtissière) at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Pastry cream (crème pâtissière)
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Pastry cream (crème pâtissière) in place of crème anglaise when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Texture runs thicker than the original, so a splash of liquid may help in thinner preparations. Texture runs looser than the original, which matters most in baking and creamy sauces. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
What are the other substitutes for crème anglaise?
Heavy cream
Use 75%
You can use Heavy cream in place of crème anglaise when needed. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Ready-made custard sauce
Same amount (1:1)
Ready-made custard sauce is a workable stand-in for crème anglaise. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Whole milk mixed with cornstarch (1 cup milk + 1 tbsp cornstarch)
Same amount (1:1)
Whole milk mixed with cornstarch (1 cup milk + 1 tbsp cornstarch) works as a substitute for crème anglaise in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
What should you know before substituting crème anglaise?
Pastry cream (crème pâtissière) is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to crème anglaise in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Focus on whether you need the closest flavor, the right texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup. If you need a plant-based option, Ready-made custard sauce is a solid alternative.
How do you substitute crème anglaise in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for crème anglaise and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Pastry cream (crème pâtissière) is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role crème anglaise plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for crème anglaise depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Pastry cream (crème pâtissière) (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Heavy cream (Use 75%) is another reliable choice. You can use Heavy cream in place of crème anglaise when needed. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting crème anglaise, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Crème Anglaise?
Pastry cream (crème pâtissière) is the best place to start for crème anglaise. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Crème Anglaise?
This page lists 4 substitutes for crème anglaise. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.