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7 Best Substitutes for Single Cream in Cooking

Running out of single cream mid-recipe is the kind of hurdle we’ve hit more than once. One time, we were all set for a creamy pasta night, only to find the carton was empty. It’s a real bummer, but we figured out some great workarounds.

There are so many substitutes that can step in and save the day. From dairy-based staples to lighter non-dairy options, each one gets the job done. Some might even surprise you with how simple they are to use.

Whether you’re whipping up dessert, sautéing veggies, or making a luxurious sauce, these swaps slide right into the recipe without skipping a beat. Skip the grocery run and keep cooking—these alternatives have your back.

7 Easy Substitutes for Single Cream

Here are seven easy substitutes for single cream that work well in all kinds of recipes. We’ve also included tips on how to use each one, so you can confidently make the swap and keep on cooking!

1 – Half-and-Half

Did you know you can use half-and-half instead of single cream? It’s one of the easiest swaps. The texture is slightly thinner, but it blends into recipes like a charm.

Use it as a 1:1 substitute. No extra steps are needed. It works wonders in soups and sauces. For a richer consistency, you can mix it with a bit of melted butter.

Half-and-half is a mix of milk and cream. That makes it lighter and less heavy compared to single cream. It’s great for lighter dishes without losing that creamy touch.

Need more substitutes? Check out this guide to half-and-half substitutes for even more ideas.

2 – Whole Milk with Butter

You’ll never believe how easy it is to swap whole milk with butter for single cream. Grab 1 cup of whole milk and mix it with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Boom, instant substitute.

Whole milk adds the necessary liquid, while butter supplies the creamy fat. The combo mimics the richness of cream in recipes. It’s quick and works in both savory and sweet dishes.

The texture is smooth, and the taste blends seamlessly. Great for sauces, soups, or baked goods. Want it thicker? Stir a tablespoon of flour into the mix.

This option is simple, budget-friendly, and likely in your fridge already. Use a 1:1 ratio for most recipes. Single cream who?

3 – Greek Yogurt (Thinned with Water or Milk)

This one substitute will save your recipe in a pinch. Greek yogurt thinned with water or milk works great for single cream. Use 1 cup of Greek yogurt and mix in 2–3 tablespoons of liquid until it’s the right consistency. The result? Something creamy with a slight tang.

It’s high in protein, so it feels a bit healthier too. The tangy flavor adds a unique twist to savory dishes like soups and sauces. For desserts, it’s surprisingly smooth and rich. It shines in baked goods or lighter cream-based sauces.

The ratio here is simple and flexible, depending on how thick you want it. Got more questions about yogurt swaps? Check out this guide to Greek yogurt substitutes for more handy tips.

4 – Coconut Cream

The cream from coconut milk isn’t just for tropical recipes. It works beautifully as a single cream substitute too. Just remember to use unsweetened canned coconut cream (not the drinkable kind).

Use 1 cup of coconut cream in place of single cream. The texture is thicker, but it melts into recipes smoothly and adds a hint of tropical flavor. It’s perfect for savory dishes like curries, or sweet treats like creamy desserts.

This non-dairy option might sound unconventional, but it impresses with its versatility and mild taste. Find more ways to use this secret swap in our coconut cream substitutes guide.

5 – Soy Cream

If you want a non-dairy option that’s even closer to the texture of single cream, check out soy cream. It’s thicker and richer than coconut cream, but still free from animal products. You can easily swap it into any recipe calling for single cream.

Use an equal amount of soy cream as you would single cream. It works like a charm in soups, sauces, and desserts. The taste is mild and creamy, making it easy to incorporate into all kinds of dishes.

Soy cream is an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions or allergies. Plus, it adds a little extra protein to your dish too!

6 – Cashew Cream

Some recipes insist on cashew cream, and we can see why. This creamy substitute blends soaked cashews and water into a thick, smooth mixture. It’s ultra-creamy and mimics the texture of single cream well. The flavor is mild with a hint of nuttiness.

Use it in a 1:1 ratio just like single cream. It works in savory sauces, soups, or even desserts. It’s a solid choice for those avoiding dairy. Cashew cream also adds a touch of natural richness to your dishes without overwhelming the original flavors.

Just soak raw cashews for a few hours, then blend them until smooth. That’s it. No fancy stuff, just cashews and water. Keep it simple, and it’ll get the job done.

7 – Heavy Cream (Diluted with Milk)

This one substitute will save your recipe and is probably already in your fridge. Diluting heavy cream with milk works easily. Mix equal parts heavy cream and whole milk. You’ll get a thinner cream that mimics single cream almost perfectly.

Use it in a 1:1 ratio wherever single cream is called for. It works well in sauces, soups, and even desserts. The texture is smooth, and the flavor stays neutral.

You keep the creaminess without it being overly rich. It’s a fast fix for creamy dishes. We like how it’s accessible and super simple to make. No blending or soaking—just pour and stir.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dairy-free substitute for single cream?

Coconut cream and soy cream are excellent dairy-free alternatives that provide similar richness.

Can I use whole milk instead of single cream?

Yes, but for better consistency, mix whole milk with a bit of melted butter.

How do I make cashew cream for a vegan substitute?

Blend soaked cashews with water until smooth to create a creamy, plant-based alternative.

Is heavy cream a good substitute for single cream?

Yes, but dilute it with milk to achieve a similar consistency.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of single cream?

Yes, but thin it out with water or milk to make it less thick and more pourable.

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