The difference between coconut milk and cream (2024)

FAQs

The difference between coconut milk and cream? ›

Consistency: Coconut milk has a thinner consistency, while coconut cream has a much thicker and creamier consistency. This is because coconut cream has a higher ratio of coconut flesh to water. Uses: A can of coconut milk can be used as a base for Thai curries, laksas, soups, and stews.

Coconut milk and cream are mostly interchangeable in recipes such as curries and soups. If you prefer a richer flavour and texture, try coconut cream or vice versa. However, be careful when substituting coconut milk and cream in baked goods.

Both coconut cream and coconut milk are made by combining coconut meat with water. Coconut cream uses a higher ratio of the flesh and has more fat. You'll find coconut cream is used frequently in dessert recipes but can be subbed for coconut milk if you're looking for an extra thick curry sauce.

Coconut cream is the same thing as coconut milk—coconut meat blended with water—but it contains less water. While coconut milk is thin like cow's milk, coconut cream is thick like whipped cream. You can find this fat-rich cream floating on the top of any canned coconut milk, or you can buy it in a dedicated can.

Compared to normal coconut milk, coconut cream has a much higher fat content, containing around 19-22% fat. Coconut cream still retains the delicious coconut flavor that coconut milk has, but is much thicker as it is essentially coconut milk with less water.

Heavy cream has signficantly more Vitamin D than coconut cream. Coconut cream is a great source of dietary fiber and iron, and it is an excellent source of potassium. Both coconut cream and heavy cream are high in calories and saturated fat. Coconut cream has signficantly less cholesterol than heavy cream.

Coconut cream

Use this ingredient as a 1-to-1 substitute for heavy cream in baking or cooking, but note that it will impart a coconut flavor to your dish. Coconut cream also works well for creating a vegan, dairy-free whipped topping.

Coconut cream is often used to add flavor and richness to vegan and dairy-free dishes and desserts. It works especially well in recipes like sauces, curries, cakes, and custards. You can also use coconut cream to make a vegan version of whipped cream.

Is coconut milk good for you? Coconut milk contains antioxidants that may be beneficial for health. However, it can also be high in fat and carbohydrates. Coconut milk drinks may also contain added sugar.

Coconut cream is perfect for vegans, since it is plant based, as well as for those who are lactose-intolerant or those who have nut allergies. It contains no cholesterol and it's a great source of protein, antioxidants, phosphorus, magnesium, folate and potassium. Coconut cream is beneficial to hair and skin too!

How long does coconut cream last in the fridge? ›

Coconut cream has a short shelf life once opened, so refrigerate and use within 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Chill canned coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight. This will make the milk fat separate and solidify on top. Use a spoon to skim the solidified coconut cream from the top of the can and put it in a glass bowl. Reserve the remaining liquid for another use (see suggestions below).

Chilling overnight is key or the coconut cream won't harden and will likely be too soft to whip. Before whipping, chill a large mixing bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes!

Coconut cream is a thicker coconut product, made from blended more coconut meat and less water than coconut milk. Coconut cream can be used as a substitute for coconut milk if it is diluted with additional water.

“Coconut cream is used in both desserts and curries, especially in Thai cuisine, where it serves as a base for cooking curry paste until the oil separates, enhancing the dish with a richer, more fragrant flavor and coconut milk is added in later for more body to the curries,” Suansilphong says.

Absolutely! Coconut cream has a natural sweetness that can enhance the flavor of your coffee without the need for additional sweeteners. However, if you prefer a sweeter taste, you can always add a touch of honey or maple syrup.

Coconut milk is an excellent non-dairy alternative when baking your favorite cookies, cakes, and muffins, and it can be used in a 1:1 ratio when substituting.

4 Ingredients Dinner - Nothing more is required than pasta, coconut milk, garlic, sundried tomatoes, and some salt! Dairy & Gluten-Free - Use your favorite GF pasta to make this recipe gluten AND dairy free! The coconut milk acts as a replacement for heavy cream, making this creamy sauce just decadent.

How does half-and-half compare with heavy cream and coffee creamer? To substitute for 1 cup (237 mL) of heavy cream, combine 7/8 cup (232 grams) of half-and-half with 1/8 cup (29 grams) of melted butter. This substitute works in virtually any recipe, including those that require whipping.