7 Best Substitute for Single Cream

What is the best substitute for single cream?

What is the best substitute for single cream? Some of the best substitutes for single cream include cream powder, coconut cream, silken tofu, double-cream, or half-and-half. Today you can buy fresh cream or if you prefer you can buy long-life cream.

If you have a dairy intolerance we have also included some non-dairy alternatives for you.

What is single cream?

Single cream, also known as light cream or pouring cream, is a dairy product that has a butterfat content of between 18% and 30%. It is lighter in texture and less rich than double cream, which has a higher butterfat content of around 48%.

Single cream is commonly used in cooking and baking, as well as for pouring over desserts and fruits. It can also be whipped, although it won’t hold its shape as well as double cream. In some countries, single cream may also be referred to as table cream or coffee cream.

Okay, before we look at your single cream substitute options, let’s deal with that empty cupboard situation!


Where can I buy single cream?

If you want to be more prepared and ensure you don’t run out of single cream again then you should stock up now.

Nowadays most supermarkets and corner stores stock a wide variety of single cream. But because single cream is a dairy product it is not suitable for all on-line sales. However a good alternative is cream powder – so we have included it as your on-line purchase option.

So why not jump on and place your order today.

STOCK UP NOW!

Hoosier Hill Farm Heavy Cream Powder

Heavy cream powder – just add water and place in the fridge. A perfect larder product.

Non-fat dry milk


What are suitable substitutes for single cream?

Here are some of the best ways to substitute the flavor and role that single cream provides in your recipes. We have thrown in a selection of dairy and non-dairy for you:

Dairy substitutes
  • Heavy (double) cream
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Crème fraiche
  • Greek yogurt
Non-dairy substitutes
  • Coconut powder
  • Coconut cream
  • Silken tofu

Single cream substitutes


Heavy (double) cream

Use double cream as a substitute for single cream. But note as it is richer and thicker, it may alter the texture and flavor of the dish. If you use double cream instead of single cream, you may need to adjust the amount used to get the desired consistency and flavor.

For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of single cream, you can substitute it with 1/2 cup of double cream and 1/2 cup of milk. This will achieve a similar consistency and flavor. Alternatively, you can dilute the double cream with a little water or milk to make it lighter and thinner.

It’s important to note that double cream has a higher fat content than single cream. Therefore, so it may not be suitable for those who are watching their fat intake or on a low-fat diet.

Double cream as a substitute for single cream

Crème fraiche

Crème fraîche can be used as a substitute for single cream in many recipes, especially those that require a creamy, tangy flavor. However, it is slightly thicker and richer than single cream, so it may not be the best option in all cases.

If you use crème fraîche instead of single cream, you may need to adjust the amount used to get the desired consistency and flavor. For example, you can dilute the crème fraîche with a little milk or water to make it lighter and thinner.

It’s worth noting that crème fraîche has a higher fat content than single cream, so it may not be the best substitute if you are looking to reduce your fat intake. However, it does have a slightly tangy flavor that can add a unique twist to dishes, so it may be worth experimenting with in certain recipes.

Creme fraiche

Greek yogurt

Greek yogurt can be a good substitute for single cream in some recipes, especially those that require a tangy flavor and a creamy texture. It is a healthier option since it is lower in fat and calories than single cream.

If you are using Greek yogurt as a substitute for single cream, you may need to thin it out with a little milk or water to achieve the desired consistency. This is because Greek yogurt is thicker than single cream and may not have the same pouring consistency.

Greek yogurt can be used in a variety of dishes, including dressings, dips, and sauces. It is also a great substitute for single cream in desserts like cheesecake or in smoothies.

It’s worth noting that Greek yogurt has a distinct tangy flavor that may not be suitable for all recipes. If the recipe calls for a neutral flavor, then it may be better to use a different substitute, such as half-and-half or whole milk.

Greek yogurt as a substitute for single cream

Coconut powder

To use coconut powder as a substitute for single cream, you can mix it with hot water to make a coconut milk. However, coconut milk is thicker and richer than single cream, so it may not work well in all recipes.

Coconut powder can be added to curry dishes to give them a rich, creamy flavor. Mix it with hot water to make a coconut milk and use it as a base for the curry sauce.

Or try using coconut powder as a coating for chicken, fish or vegetables. Mix it with flour and spices and then coat the food before frying or baking.

When using coconut powder in recipes, it’s important to note that it can be quite absorbent, so you may need to adjust the liquid or other ingredients to compensate. Start by adding a little at a time and taste as you go to get the desired flavor and texture.

Coconut powder as a substitute for single cream.

Coconut cream

Coconut cream can be a good substitute for single cream in recipes that require a rich, creamy texture and a coconut flavor. The cream is made from the flesh of mature coconuts and has a thick, creamy consistency similar to single cream.

To use coconut cream as a substitute for single cream, you can generally use it in a 1:1 ratio. But remember you may need to adjust the amount depending on the recipe and desired consistency. Coconut cream can be used in a variety of dishes, including curries, soups, sauces, and desserts.

It’s worth noting that coconut cream has a distinct coconut flavor that may not be suitable for all recipes. If the recipe calls for a neutral flavor, then it may be better to use a different substitute, such as half-and-half or whole milk.

Additionally, coconut cream is higher in fat and calories than single cream. Therefore, it may not be the best option if you are looking to reduce your fat intake. However, it does have some health benefits, such as being rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that can help boost metabolism and promote weight loss.

Coconut cream as a substitute for single cream.

Silken tofu

Use silken tofu as a substitute for single cream in some recipes, especially those that require a creamy texture and a neutral flavor. It is made from soybeans and has a smooth, creamy texture that can be similar to single cream.

To use silken tofu as a substitute for single cream, you can blend it in a food processor or blender until smooth. Depending on the recipe, you may need to adjust the amount of water or other liquid ingredients to achieve the desired consistency. Try using tofu in a variety of dishes, including soups, sauces, dressings, and desserts.

Silken tofu is a healthier alternative to single cream as it is low in fat and calories and high in protein. However, it does have a distinct flavor that may not be suitable for all recipes. If the recipe requires a creamy texture but a neutral flavor, then it may be a good substitute. If the recipe requires a specific flavor, then a different substitute may be more appropriate.

Silken tofu as a substitute for single cream.

Summary for the best single cream substitutes

Okay – that’s you all sorted with a suitable substitute for single cream.

There are many alternatives to using single cream and most can easily be incorporated into a variety of recipes. From adding depth of flavor to baking, or sauces, you can add as much or as little as you need. So just remember when you do run out of single cream there are alternatives.

So if you are looking for the best single cream substitutes then the products listed above will all provide you with an alternative. Which one will you choose?

And remember if you’re looking to replace single cream in a recipe, you’ll need to consider what role the single cream was playing in the recipe and choose a suitable replacement that provides similar benefits.

We have gathered together a lot more facts on ingredients such as herbs, spices, oils, nuts, etc. if you would like to learn some more.