We’ve been mid-bake, scones ready, jam prepped, and then it hit us—no clotted cream. Total mood killer, right? We couldn’t just skip that creamy goodness, so we went digging for alternatives.
Turns out, there are some super simple swaps that get the job done. From whipped creations to rich dairy hacks, these substitutes bring that same luxurious vibe we all love.
We’ve tried them on everything from berries to biscuits, and trust us—they work. Best part? Most of these are already sitting in the fridge or pantry. No clotted cream? No problem. These options have got us (and you) covered for those last-minute cravings.

7 Easy Substitutes for Clotted Cream
Here are seven substitutes for clotted cream that will leave you wondering why you ever used it in the first place.
1 – Mascarpone Cheese
Did you know you can swap clotted cream with mascarpone cheese? It’s thick, creamy, and easily spreadable. The texture is super similar, so it works great on scones, desserts, or even as a topping.
Use it straight from the tub or mix it with a little sugar and vanilla for extra flavor. The ratio is simple—1:1. Replace clotted cream with the same amount of mascarpone, and you’re set.
It’s rich, mildly sweet, and has a smooth consistency that blends well. If mascarpone isn’t handy, check out this guide on mascarpone cheese substitutes for more ideas.
2 – Whipped Cream
You’ll never believe how easy it is to swap clotted cream with whipped cream. It’s light, fluffy, and totally gets the job done. Just whip heavy cream until it’s stiff, and you’ve got yourself a decent alternative.
For extra thickness, we can mix it with a bit of cream cheese. The ratio? Use about 1 cup of whipped cream to replace 1 cup of clotted cream. It’s slightly lighter but still works great on desserts and scones. The best part? It’s super accessible and easy to make.
Skip overcomplicated tricks. This substitute is straight to the point and reliable in texture. Whipped cream keeps things simple but adds that airy touch everyone loves in recipes.
3 – Double Cream
This one substitute will save your recipe with double cream. It’s rich and thick, making it a solid alternative to clotted cream. Use it just as it is or whip it lightly for more structure. Either way, it’s creamy enough to handle scones or desserts.
The ratio’s simple. Swap 1 cup of clotted cream with 1 cup of double cream. Make sure it’s fresh. Its high-fat content gives it that luxurious texture. It’s heavier than whipped cream but not overwhelming.
Double cream is common in many stores, so there’s no need to overthink this one. It blends well without changing flavors. Keep it chilled until use for the best results. If you’re after a thicker consistency, refrigerate it longer before serving.
4 – Crème Fraîche
Some recipes insist on crème fraîche, but we’ve got options if you’re fresh out. This substitute brings a tangy, creamy vibe that mirrors the original. Use 1 cup of crème fraîche to replace every 1 cup of clotted cream in your recipe.
It’s slightly thinner but still creamy enough to spread. Keep it chilled for the best texture. The mild tartness balances sweet dishes like fruit tarts or pancakes. It’s also versatile for savory recipes, like soups and sauces.
Crème fraîche is easy to find in most grocery stores. It blends well without overpowering the dish. If you’re curious about more options, check out these crème fraîche substitutes for other tangy ideas that work wonders.
5 – Greek Yogurt (with a touch of sugar)
This one substitute will save your recipe without missing a beat—Greek yogurt with a touch of sugar. Start with plain Greek yogurt for that thick, creamy texture we all know works. Add just a teaspoon of sugar per cup to mimic the mild sweetness of clotted cream.
It’s lighter than other substitutes, which makes it great for quick fixes. Use 1 cup of Greek yogurt to replace 1 cup of clotted cream. Keep it cold for the best consistency and to prevent it from thinning out.
It suits both sweet and savory dishes like fruit scones or even curries. If you’re curious about more swaps, check out these other helpful Greek yogurt substitutes to keep your recipe spot on.
6 – Butter and Cream Mixture
The best substitute for clotted cream might be sitting right in front of you—butter and cream. Mix softened butter with heavy cream for that thick, rich texture similar to clotted cream. The ratio is simple: use 1 cup of softened butter mixed with 1/4 cup of heavy cream.
It works great as a topping or spread and can even be whipped lightly for thicker consistency. Take it out from the fridge in advance to soften before using for easier mixing.
This substitute also adds a slight hint of sweetness to dishes like scones or biscuits. Keep leftovers chilled until use.
7 – Devonshire Cream
There’s one thing every cook should know—Devonshire cream is basically clotted cream’s very classy cousin. Made by blending whipped cream and mascarpone, it’s smooth, light, and rich all at once. Use equal parts mascarpone and heavy cream for the best results. Whip them together until they form soft peaks.
This substitute is creamy but not overly heavy. It works well on scones, fruits, or even desserts when you need that fancy touch. Keep it chilled for the best texture. It spreads easily and adds a subtle, slightly tangy twist to dishes.
Pro tip: you can sweeten it with a little powdered sugar if you’re pairing it with something sweet. Just mix, whip, and store whatever’s left for next time. Simple, practical, and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, mascarpone is rich and creamy, making it a great substitute, though it is slightly tangier than clotted cream.
Use heavy cream and beat it until soft peaks form, then add a small amount of mascarpone or butter for extra richness.
Yes, crème fraîche works well, but it has a slightly tangy flavor compared to traditional clotted cream.
Yes, but for a more authentic taste, mix it with a bit of sugar or honey to reduce the tartness.
Double cream is slightly less thick and has a higher liquid content, but it can be reduced to achieve a similar consistency.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.