When following a recipe from the UK or elsewhere, you might come across a need for heavy cream—a staple ingredient in rich sauces, desserts, and many traditional British dishes. But what happens if you don’t have heavy cream on hand, or you’re looking for a lighter, dairy-free, or more accessible alternative? Whether you’re cooking a classic steak and ale pie, whipping up a creamy risotto, or baking a delicate clafoutis, understanding what you can use instead of heavy cream is essential.
In the UK, heavy cream typically refers to a high-fat dairy product with around 36% fat content, making it ideal for whipping, thickening, and enriching recipes. However, due to dietary restrictions, availability issues, or simply a desire to reduce fat intake, many home cooks are seeking practical substitutes. This comprehensive guide explores the best alternatives to heavy cream available in the UK, including dairy, non-dairy, and plant-based options, ensuring your culinary creations remain rich, flavorful, and satisfying—even without the real thing.
Why Would You Need a Substitute for Heavy Cream?
Before diving into the alternatives, it’s helpful to understand why someone might avoid heavy cream. Knowing the reasons can guide you toward the right substitute for your needs.
Dietary Restrictions and Preferences
Many people in the UK are adopting dairy-free or vegan lifestyles, either for ethical, environmental, or health reasons. Lactose intolerance affects millions, making dairy products uncomfortable or even painful to consume. Others may avoid dairy due to allergies or conditions like IBS.
Health and Nutrition Goals
Heavy cream is high in saturated fat and calories—around 460 kcal per 100ml. For those aiming to reduce fat intake, lower their cholesterol, or follow a weight-management plan, finding a lighter alternative makes sense.
Availability Issues
While heavy cream is sold in most UK supermarkets—like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, and Waitrose—some smaller groceries or rural stores may not stock it. In those cases, having a go-to substitute is invaluable.
Cooking Technique Considerations
Different recipes require different properties from cream:
- Whipping: Needs high fat for stability.
- Thickening sauces: Relies on fat content to prevent curdling when heated.
- Baking: Affects moisture and richness.
- Coffee or desserts: Adds creaminess and texture.
The ideal substitute depends on how you plan to use it. Let’s explore your best options.
Dairy-Based Substitutes for Heavy Cream in the UK
For those who aren’t avoiding dairy but simply lack heavy cream, several full-fat dairy options can come to the rescue.
Double Cream
Double cream is the best direct substitute in the UK—it’s even richer than heavy cream, with a fat content of around 48%. Found in almost every UK supermarket, it whips beautifully and adds a luxurious mouthfeel to both sweet and savory recipes.
- Uses: Desserts, sauces, drizzling, whipping.
- Substitution ratio: 1:1 with heavy cream.
- Tip: Can be whipped more quickly than heavy cream due to higher fat.
Whipping Cream
Whipping cream in the UK typically contains 35–36% fat—very close to heavy cream. While it may not hold its shape as firmly after whipping, it’s an excellent alternative.
How to Use Whipping Cream
– Use in sauces, soups, and curries as a 1:1 substitute.
– For whipping, chill the bowl and cream first to improve volume.
– Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Single Cream (with Adjustments)
Single cream has only about 18% fat, which makes it far too thin for direct substitution in most heavy cream recipes. However, it can be used in combination with butter to boost its fat content.
Heavy Cream Substitute Using Single Cream and Butter
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1/4 cup (60g) |
| Single Cream | 3/4 cup (180ml) |
Melting the butter gently and mixing it with single cream creates a close approximation of heavy cream. This works well in:
– Casseroles
– Gravies
– Baked desserts
Avoid using this mixture for whipping.
Soured Cream or Crème Fraîche
Crème fraîche—available in most UK supermarkets—contains about 40–45% fat and is less acidic than sour cream. It’s excellent in hot recipes because it resists curdling.
Why Crème Fraîche Is Ideal for Sauces
– **High fat content** ensures stability when heated.
– **Mild tanginess** enhances flavor without overpowering.
– **Available at Tesco, M&S, and Booths** under brands like Elle & Vire or Rachel’s Organic.
Use a 1:1 ratio for heavy cream in savory dishes like stroganoff or pasta sauces. Avoid using it in recipes requiring whipping unless you’re after a light, tangy topping.
Non-Dairy and Plant-Based Alternatives
For vegans and those avoiding dairy, the UK now offers a wealth of plant-based heavy cream substitutes. Let’s look at the most effective ones.
Canned Coconut Milk or Cream
This is one of the richest and most popular non-dairy substitutes. The thick cream that rises to the top of full-fat canned coconut milk can mimic the texture and fat content of heavy cream.
How to Use Coconut Cream
– Chill the can overnight.
– Scoop out the solid cream from the top.
– Whip with sugar and vanilla for desserts.
– Use in curries, soups, and sauces.
Best for: Tropical-flavored desserts, Thai and Indian curries.
Caution: Imparts a coconut flavor—unsuitable for dishes where neutrality is key (e.g., mashed potatoes, cheese sauces).
Oat Cream (Barista or Extra Thick)
UK supermarkets now stock high-fat oat creams specifically designed for baristas and cooking. Brands like Oatly Barista Edition and Alpro Plant Double Cream are formulated to thicken and froth similarly to dairy cream.
Pros and Cons of Oat Cream
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Neutral flavor | Limited availability in smaller stores |
| Whippable (with chilling) | May contain added sugars |
| Dairy- and nut-free | Lower fat (~15%) than heavy cream |
| Eco-friendly production | Breaks down easily when heated |
Best uses: Coffee creamers, creamy soups, dairy-free puddings.
For cooking, consider thickening with cornflour if reduced stability is a concern.
Soya Cream (Soy Whip or Soya Double Cream)
Soya-based creams have been a staple in UK vegan kitchens for years. Look for “whipping” or “extra thick” versions with fat content above 30%.
Top UK Soya Cream Options:
– Provamel Soya Cooking Cream
– Tesco Plant Chef Soya Double Cream
– Waitrose Vegan Whipping Cream (soya-based)
These work well in savory dishes and some baking applications, though they don’t whip quite as firmly as dairy cream.
Almond or Cashew Cream
Homemade nut creams are a fantastic option for those who prefer unprocessed, natural ingredients. Soaked and blended raw cashews or almonds create a thick, creamy liquid ideal for sauces and desserts.
How to Make Homemade Cashew Cream
- Soak 1 cup raw cashews in water for 4–6 hours (or boil for 15 mins).
- Drain and rinse thoroughly.
- Blend with 1/2 cup water until smooth and creamy.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Uses: Vegan pasta sauces (like a dairy-free alfredo), creamy soups, and no-bake cheesecakes.
Tip: Add lemon juice for tang or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor in savory dishes.
Other Creative Heavy Cream Substitutes
Beyond traditional and plant-based options, you can use kitchen ingenuity to recreate that creamy richness.
Full-Fat Greek Yogurt
With about 10% fat and a thick, creamy texture, Greek yogurt can mimic heavy cream in certain contexts.
How to Use It
– Mix with a little milk or plant-based milk to thin slightly.
– Stir into hot dishes at the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
– Use in baked goods, dressings, or as a dollop on curries.
Best substitute for: Dips, marinades, and low-fat baking—**not ideal for whipping**.
Butter and Milk Blend
One of the simplest hacks for a heavy cream alternative involves two common kitchen ingredients.
DIY Heavy Cream with Butter and Milk
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup (115g) |
| Whole Milk | 1/2 cup (120ml) |
Melt the butter (don’t boil) and stir in the milk. This blend works well in baking and cooking but won’t whip.
Why it works: The added butter increases the fat content, compensating for the lower fat in milk.
Cream Cheese Thinned with Milk
Cream cheese has a high fat content (~33%) and a rich texture. When blended with a little milk or non-dairy milk, it becomes pourable and creamy.
Great For
– Frostings
– Cheesecakes
– Rich soups (e.g., potato soup)
Ratio: 1 part cream cheese to 1–2 parts milk, depending on desired thickness.
What NOT to Use as a Heavy Cream Substitute
Not every creamy product performs the same. Using the wrong substitute can ruin a dish.
Skim or Low-Fat Milk Alone
Too thin and low in fat—results in watery sauces and poor texture in baked goods.
Evaporated Milk Without Adjustments
Evaporated milk is concentrated but still only has about 8% fat. If you’re using it, add melted butter to boost richness (e.g., 3/4 cup evaporated milk + 1/4 cup melted butter).
Regular Plant Milks (e.g., Almond, Rice)
Unless specifically labeled “barista” or “extra creamy,” most plant milks are too thin and will not provide the necessary mouthfeel or cooking performance.
Cooking Tips When Substituting Heavy Cream
Even the best substitute requires technique. Here are smart kitchen tips to get the best results.
Temperature Matters
When using high-fat substitutes (like coconut cream or double cream), chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping. This helps form stable peaks.
Heat Gently
Plant-based creams and dairy alternatives are more prone to splitting. Always add cream substitutes slowly to hot dishes and avoid boiling.
Use a Thickener if Needed
If your substitute lacks body, thicken sauces with:
– **Cornflour slurry** (1 tsp cornflour + 1 tbsp cold water per 1/2 cup liquid)
– **Arrowroot powder** (great for dairy-free and paleo diets)
– **Blended silken tofu** (for creamy, protein-rich texture without fat)
Adjust Seasoning
Dairy and non-dairy creams contribute more than fat—they affect overall flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning after adding substitutes, especially salt and sweetness.
Top UK Store-Bought Heavy Cream Substitutes
Here’s a handy reference to popular heavy cream alternatives you can find on UK shelves today.
| Product | Type | Fat Content | Best For | Available At |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpro Plant Double Cream | Soymilk-based | ~15% | Sauces, cooking | Supermarkets, health stores |
| Oatly Double Cream Alternative | Oat-based | 15–18% | Drizzling, soups | M&S, Tesco, online |
| Coconut Cream (Chaokoh, Coyo) | Coconut-based | 20–24% fat (cream only) | Desserts, curries | Most supermarkets, Asian stores |
| Philadelphia Cream Cheese + Milk | Dairy blend | ~30% fat (approx) | Baking, creamy dips | Every grocery store |
| Creme fraîche | Dairy | 40–45% | Savory sauces, dolloping | All major supermarkets |
Recipe Ideas Using Heavy Cream Substitutes
Let’s put theory into practice with a few delicious ideas for using substitutes in real UK-style cooking.
1. Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff (Using Crème Fraîche)
Swap heavy cream for crème fraîche in this comforting dish. The tang enhances the mushrooms, and the high fat prevents curdling.
Method: Sauté mushrooms and onions, add garlic and paprika, stir in beef stock and crème fraîche. Simmer gently. Serve with egg noodles.
2. Vegan Chocolate Mousse (Using Coconut Cream)
Chill a can of coconut milk, scoop out the thick cream, whip with melted dark chocolate and a touch of maple syrup. Chill for 2 hours. Garnish with berries.
3. Rich Potato Soup (Using Butter and Milk Blend)
Sauté onions and garlic, add diced potatoes and vegetable stock. Simmer until soft, then blend. Stir in a mix of melted butter and whole milk for a creamy finish.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Substitute
When asking “What can I use instead of heavy cream UK?”, the answer depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and the result you’re trying to achieve.
– Need something decadent and rich? Double cream or crème fraîche are your best bets.
– Going dairy-free? Coconut cream or barista-style oat or soya creams are excellent.
– Cooking from common pantry items? Butter and milk, or single cream with extra butter, will save the day.
– Whipping required? Stick to double cream, coconut cream, or high-fat vegan whipping creams.
The UK’s food market is more inclusive than ever, offering everything from traditional dairy products to cutting-edge plant-based innovations. Whether you’re baking a Victoria sponge, simmering a cottage pie filling, or crafting a dairy-free latte, you’ll almost always find a suitable substitute for heavy cream.
Armed with this knowledge, you’ll never have to abandon a recipe due to a missing ingredient. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy the rich, creamy textures your dishes deserve—no heavy cream required.
What is a good non-dairy substitute for heavy cream in the UK?
A great non-dairy alternative to heavy cream in the UK is canned coconut milk. Full-fat canned coconut milk has a rich, creamy texture that closely mimics heavy cream, making it ideal for both sweet and savoury dishes. It works particularly well in curries, soups, and desserts like puddings and custards. Just ensure you’re using the full-fat version rather than the lighter, diluted varieties found in cartons.
Another excellent option is a blend of unsweetened plant-based milk and cornflour. For every 100ml of heavy cream, mix 90ml of soy, oat, or almond milk with 1–2 teaspoons of cornflour and whisk until smooth. This creates a thick, pourable consistency perfect for sauces and gravies. These substitutes are especially valuable for those with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or those following a vegan diet, allowing them to enjoy creamy textures without compromising on taste.
Can I use crème fraîche instead of heavy cream in UK recipes?
Yes, crème fraîche is a widely available and excellent substitute for heavy cream in the UK. With a fat content of around 48%, it is slightly tangier and thicker than heavy cream, but it performs very well in both cooking and baking. It can be used in sauces, soups, and desserts, offering a luxurious mouthfeel. However, because it is more acidic, it may curdle if boiled for too long, so it’s best added at the end of cooking or gently warmed.
In baked goods such as scones or cakes, crème fraîche can replace heavy cream in a 1:1 ratio and often results in a moister texture. Its natural richness enhances flavour without making dishes overly heavy. For whipping, though, crème fraîche does not hold stiff peaks as well as heavy cream, so it’s less ideal for topping desserts unless you’re after a softer, more spreadable finish. Overall, it’s a convenient and tasty alternative commonly found in UK supermarkets.
Is double cream the same as heavy cream in the UK?
Double cream in the UK is not exactly the same as heavy cream found in the US, but it is the closest and most appropriate substitute. Double cream has a fat content of about 48%, whereas US heavy cream typically ranges from 36% to 38%. This higher fat content makes double cream richer and thicker, capable of being whipped into firm peaks and holding up well in cooking without curdling.
Because of its high fat, double cream is excellent for enriching sauces, soups, and desserts. It can be used in a 1:1 ratio as a direct replacement for heavy cream in most UK recipes. However, its richness may alter the taste and texture slightly in delicate dishes. If a recipe calls for a lighter touch, you could dilute double cream slightly with a little milk. For most home cooks in the UK, double cream is both the standard and best option when heavy cream is needed.
Can I use Greek yoghurt as a substitute for heavy cream?
Greek yoghurt can be used as a substitute for heavy cream in certain applications, particularly in savoury recipes like soups, stews, and sauces. Its thick texture and high protein content provide a creamy consistency, and it adds a slight tang that can enhance savoury dishes. To avoid curdling, stir Greek yoghurt into dishes off the heat or temper it by gradually mixing in a little hot liquid before adding it to the pan.
However, Greek yoghurt is not suitable for all recipes, especially those requiring high heat or where sweetness and rich fat content are crucial, such as in desserts or whipped toppings. It also cannot be whipped like heavy cream. For baking, use it only in recipes specifically designed for yoghurt, or combine it with a little oil or butter to increase fat content. While it’s a healthier, lower-fat alternative, it won’t replicate the exact mouthfeel of heavy cream in every context.
What can I use in place of heavy cream for a keto-friendly diet in the UK?
For those following a keto diet in the UK, full-fat coconut cream and double cream are excellent low-carb substitutes for heavy cream. Coconut cream, the thick layer from the top of a chilled can of coconut milk, is rich in healthy fats and contains almost no carbohydrates. It’s perfect for keto desserts, coffee creamers, and creamy sauces. Double cream, with its high fat and minimal lactose content, is another ideal choice that fits well within daily macronutrient goals.
Additionally, blending double cream with a small amount of xanthan gum can create a whipped topping alternative that holds its shape well. Avoid low-fat or flavoured substitutes, as they often contain added sugars. Both coconut cream and double cream maintain the rich, indulgent texture keto recipes often require, and they’re readily available in most UK grocery stores and online retailers, making them practical options for maintaining a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I make a heavy cream substitute using milk and butter?
Yes, you can make a simple heavy cream substitute using milk and unsalted butter, which is especially useful when you’re out of cream but need it for a recipe. For every 100ml of heavy cream, melt 25g of butter and slowly whisk in 75ml of whole milk. This combination mimics the fat content and creaminess of heavy cream to a reasonable degree, making it suitable for cooking sauces, soups, and certain baked goods.
However, this mixture will not whip like real heavy cream due to the lower fat content compared to double or whipping cream. It’s best used in recipes where the cream is a background ingredient rather than a primary feature. Also, because butter adds a slightly richer, nuttier flavour, it may subtly alter the taste of delicate dishes. While not a perfect replica, the milk-and-butter blend is a practical, accessible solution that UK home cooks can rely on in a pinch.
Are there any store-bought heavy cream alternatives available in UK supermarkets?
Yes, many UK supermarkets stock ready-made heavy cream alternatives suitable for various dietary needs. Brands like Alpro, Elmlea, and Dove’s Farm offer plant-based cream substitutes made from soy, almond, or oat bases that are designed to mimic the texture and performance of dairy cream. Elmlea, for example, produces a popular non-dairy whipping substitute that can be used in both cooking and dessert toppings, making it a convenient choice for vegans or those avoiding lactose.
These store-bought alternatives are typically found in the chilled or plant-based sections of major supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, and Waitrose. They are formulated to be pourable, heat-stable, and sometimes even whipable, closely resembling dairy cream in functionality. Always check labels for fat content and additives to ensure they suit your recipe. While they may be slightly more expensive than traditional cream, their convenience and versatility make them a valuable option for modern UK kitchens.