Running out of coconut cream can be frustrating, especially when you have a recipe that calls for it. However, there are simple and delicious alternatives you can use in place of coconut cream. With these substitutes, you’ll be able to continue creating your favorite dishes without missing the rich and creamy taste that coconut cream provides.
In this article, you’ll discover some of the best and easy-to-find coconut cream substitutes that can save your recipe in a pinch. Plus, you’ll learn how to make your own coconut milk at home, allowing you to explore a wide variety of ingredient substitutes that suit your dietary needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways
Discover simple coconut cream substitute options
Learn how to make your own coconut milk at home
Explore a variety of ingredient substitutions to suit your needs
What is Coconut Cream?
Coconut cream is a delightful, creamy white liquid crafted by blending fresh coconut flesh with water. It boasts a rich, flavorful taste with a fat content of around 24%. It’s similar to coconut milk but has less water, making it thicker and more luxurious.
The Best Coconut Cream Substitutes
Coconut cream substitutes are great options when you want to maintain a recipe’s texture while adding your unique touch. Here are some top choices for substituting coconut cream:
Coconut Milk: A versatile option, coconut milk can be a 1:1 substitution for coconut cream in most recipes, except those requiring whipped coconut cream.
whipping cream: If you’re not avoiding dairy, regular whipping cream is an easy alternative. To mimic coconut cream’s consistency, you could dilute it with water, but it’s not mandatory.
Nut Butter or Tahini: Almond butter or tahini can be used to create a creamy substitute for coconut cream. Combine 5oz of nut butter with 1 US cup of water, adding water gradually while stirring with a whisk, stick blender, or food processor.
Greek Yogurt: This works well as a 1:1 coconut cream substitute as long as you don’t need to boil the mixture, which may cause it to curdle. To avoid curdling, add the yogurt at the end of cooking and gently heat.
Canned tomatoes or passata: In recipes where coconut cream provides liquid, such as curries or soups, you can use tomato-based ingredients for a unique twist. For some creaminess, combine cream and tomato, like 1 cup passata with 2/3 cup cream, to make up a can of coconut milk.
Homemade Coconut Milk: If you have desiccated coconut on hand, you can make your own coconut milk. Although it’s not as creamy as store-bought varieties, it’s a fun and natural alternative.
With these alternatives, you can easily substitute coconut cream in your recipes without compromising flavor or texture.
How to Make Coconut Milk
To create your own coconut milk, follow these simple steps for a delightful and creamy result:
