I. Introduction

If you’re a health-conscious cook or have a dairy allergy, you may face the challenge of finding a good replacement for heavy cream in your recipes. Heavy cream, also called whipping cream, is a key ingredient in many dishes that require a smooth and velvety texture, such as creamy soups, sauces, baked goods, and desserts. However, heavy cream is high in calories, fat, and cholesterol, and may not be suitable for everyone’s diet. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives and substitutes that can deliver a similar creamy richness without the dairy content or the guilt. In this article, we’ll explore five dairy-free alternatives to heavy cream, numerous creamy recipes without heavy cream, and hacks for using some unexpected ingredients as a substitute.

II. 5 Dairy-Free Alternatives to Heavy Cream

First, let’s look at some non-dairy options for replacing heavy cream, and in what dishes you can use them.

1. Coconut cream: dairy-free whipped cream

Coconut cream is a thick and creamy liquid that separates from the milk when refrigerated. It has a coconut flavor and aroma but can be sweetened or flavored for various uses. Coconut cream can be used as a substitute for heavy cream in whipped cream recipes, berry sauces, or smoothies. For example, try making a simple coconut whipped cream by refrigerating a can of coconut cream overnight, and then scooping off the solid cream and whipping it with a mixer until fluffy. Add vanilla extract or honey for a sweeter taste.

2. Cashew cream: vegan alfredo sauce

Cashew cream is made from soaking cashews in water and blending them into a smooth paste. Cashew cream has a mild and nutty flavor and can be used in savory or sweet dishes, such as soups, dressings, or cheesecakes. For a vegan alfredo sauce, blend 1 cup of soaked cashews, 1/2 cup of vegetable broth, 2 cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until smooth. Heat the mixture in a pan until bubbly and thick, and then pour over cooked pasta or vegetables.

3. Soy milk: vegan cream of mushroom soup

Soy milk is a plant-based milk made from soybeans and water, and it has a neutral taste and a creamy texture. Soy milk can serve as a replacement for heavy cream in many recipes, such as soups, gravies, or puddings. For a vegan cream of mushroom soup, sauté thinly sliced mushrooms, onions, and garlic in a pot with olive oil until soft. Add 1-2 cups of vegetable broth and simmer for a few minutes. Then, puree the mixture with 1 cup of soy milk until smooth, and heat it up again. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and enjoy with some crusty bread.

4. Rice milk: vegan quiche

Rice milk is a dairy-free and nut-free milk made from rice grains. It has a mild and sweet flavor and can be used in pancakes, waffles, or baked goods. For a vegan quiche, mix together 1 cup of rice milk, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast, 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric, and salt and pepper to taste. Pour the mixture into a pie crust filled with sautéed vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. Bake the quiche at 375°F for 30-35 minutes, or until firm and golden. Serve hot or cold.

5. Oat cream: vegan creamy pasta sauce

Oat cream is a new plant-based cream made from oats and either water or oil. It has a mild and slightly sweet taste and is suitable for making sauces, soups, or dressings. For a vegan creamy pasta sauce, blend 1 cup of cooked and drained chickpeas, 1/2 cup of oat cream, 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast, 1 tablespoon of dried basil, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until smooth. Heat up the mixture in a skillet with some minced garlic and onion, and then toss in cooked pasta and some chopped vegetables, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

III. Creamy Recipes Without Heavy Cream: Try These Substitutes Instead

Now that we’ve covered some non-dairy alternatives to heavy cream, let’s explore some creamy dishes you can make without heavy cream at all.

1. Classic mashed potatoes: use pureed cauliflower or steamed potatoes with coconut milk

Mashed potatoes are a comfort food staple but can be loaded with fat and calories if made with heavy cream and butter. A healthier and equally delicious alternative is to use pureed cauliflower or steamed potatoes with some coconut milk or coconut cream, which adds a delicate and sweet flavor. For example, boil a pound of potatoes or cauliflower until soft, and then mash or blend them with 1/2 cup of coconut milk, some minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. You can add chopped herbs or spices for extra flavor.

2. Creamy salad dressing: use mashed avocado or tahini with olive oil and lemon juice

Salad dressings can be a sneaky source of added fat and calories, but also a perfect opportunity to experiment with new flavors and textures. Instead of heavy cream-based dressings, try using some mashed avocado or tahini with olive oil and lemon juice, which provides a creamy and tangy taste without dairy. For example, blend together 1 ripe avocado, 1 tablespoon of tahini, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and some salt and pepper until smooth. Thin the mixture with some water if desired. Use the dressing on a green salad, roasted veggies, or grilled chicken.

3. Creamy tomato soup: use canned or fresh tomatoes and blended cashews or hemp seeds

Tomato soup is a classic comfort food that can be surprisingly healthy and satisfying if made with wholesome ingredients. Instead of relying on heavy cream to thicken the soup, try using some blended cashews or hemp seeds, which add protein, fiber, and healthy fats to the mix. For example, sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 cloves of garlic in a pot with some olive oil until fragrant. Add 2 cans of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of vegetable broth, and 1/2 cup of soaked and drained cashews or hemp seeds. Blend the mixture until smooth, and then return to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Season with basil, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve with some bread or crackers.

4. Creamy pasta bake: use mashed white beans or silken tofu with almond milk and nutritional yeast

Pasta bakes are a delicious and easy way to feed a crowd, but they can also be heavy and greasy if made with heavy cream and cheese. A smarter and more flavorful choice is to use mashed white beans or silken tofu with some almond milk and nutritional yeast, which mimic the creamy and cheesy texture without dairy.