Substitutes for Whipping Cream

Whipping cream is a common ingredient in many recipes, but some people choose to avoid it for a variety of reasons, including dairy allergies or the high fat content. Fortunately, several alternatives to whipping cream are available for substitution. You can also use these alternatives if you happen to be out of whipping cream while baking or cooking.

Mix 1/3 cup softened butter with 3/4 cup milk for a whipping cream substitute. Using an electric mixer will help achieve the desired consistency. This is not a dairy-free option, but it works if you are out of whipping cream and need it for a recipe. This ratio is the equivalent of 1 cup of cream. This substitute works for baking or cooking.

Using an electric mixer, combine 1/3 cup ice water with 1 1/4 tsp. lemon juice and 1/2 tsp. vanilla. Once the ingredients are mixed thoroughly, slowly add 1/3 cup dry, nonfat milk. Beat at a medium speed for five minutes and check the consistency. If the mixture needs to stiffen a bit, continue to mix for another five minutes. Sprinkle in 2 tbsp. sugar and beat for another minute or two.

For those who want to avoid the dairy in whipping cream, beat one ripe banana with an egg white. Keep an eye on the mixture so that you can stop beating when it reaches the desired consistency. If needed, you can add sugar to sweeten the final product.

Chill 13 oz. of evaporated milk in the refrigerator overnight, or at least 12 hours. Combine the chilled evaporated milk with 1 tsp. lemon juice and beat with an electric mixer. Continue whipping until the mix reaches your desired consistency or stiffness.

Several varieties of frozen, non-dairy toppings are available in supermarkets. Thaw the desired amount before using, but do not allow it to sit at room temperature. Use immediately.

For a low-fat, low-carb alternative to whipping cream, whisk together 1 cup of low-fat or fat-free milk with 2 tbsp. of cornstarch. When combined, continue whisking and add 1 tbsp. flour. You can also use almond or rice milk. This substitute works best in recipes that call for whipping cream as a thickening agent.