What creams are dairy-free?

Dairy-free creams are made from plant-based ingredients and contain no milk or lactose. Common types include: Coconut cream – thick, rich, and ideal for desserts or curries Cashew cream – neutral and creamy, perfect for sauces and soups Almond cream – light with a nutty flavor, great in coffee Oat cream – smooth and allergy-friendly, useful in baking and cooking Soy cream – protein-rich and stable for heating These creams are often labeled as "non-dairy," "plant-based," or "vegan" and can be used in a wide variety of dishes.

What is a dairy-free substitute for cream?

The best dairy-free substitutes for cream depend on your recipe: For whipped cream : Use chilled coconut cream or a product like Califia Farms Whip For sauces : Cashew cream or oat cream offer a smooth, rich base For coffee : Almond, soy, or oat creamers work well For baking : Oat or soy cream keeps baked goods moist Many of these can be made at home or found in stores under vegan or plant-based product labels.

Can you get non-dairy cream?

Yes, non-dairy cream is widely available in grocery stores, especially in the natural foods or plant-based section. Brands like: Silk Califia Farms So Delicious Elmhurst Oatly offer a range of non-dairy creams for cooking, coffee, or baking. These products mimic the texture and flavor of dairy cream without using milk. Looking for a reliable everyday creamer? Learn more about options in our dairy-free coffee creamer guide .

Yes, all vegan products are inherently dairy free. A vegan diet excludes all animal products, including milk, butter, and cream. However, not all dairy-free products are vegan—some may still contain animal-derived ingredients like gelatin or honey. Always check the label if you follow a strict vegan lifestyle. Don’t miss our complete breakdown in is vegan dairy free .

No, ghee is not technically dairy-free. Although it’s clarified and contains little to no lactose or casein, it is still made from butter, which comes from milk. That said, some people with mild lactose intolerance can tolerate ghee, but it’s not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies. Explore more in our detailed guide: is ghee dairy free? .

Dairy Free Cream – The Best 7 Creamy Substitutes Ranked

Name: Homemade Cashew Dairy Free Cream
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Plant-Based
Ingredients: 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight); ¾ cup water (plus more for soaking); 1/4 tsp sea salt (optional)

Homemade Cashew Dairy Free Cream

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A rich and creamy dairy-free cashew cream made with just three ingredients. Perfect for vegan sauces, dips, and baking.

Author: Nia Yarden
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cup 1x
Category: Sauces & Dips
Method: Blending
Cuisine: Plant-Based
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

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1 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight)
¾ cup water (plus more for soaking)
1/4 tsp sea salt (optional)

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Instructions

Drain soaked cashews and rinse under cold water.
Add cashews and ¾ cup fresh water to a high-speed blender.
Blend until completely smooth and creamy (1–2 minutes).
Add salt to taste and blend for a few more seconds.
Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

For a thinner cream, add an additional 2–3 tablespoons of water while blending.
For extra flavor, add 1 tbsp lemon juice or garlic if using in savory dishes.
Make it sweet: Add a date or vanilla for dessert-style cream.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tbsp
Calories: 85
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 35mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Find it online: https://www.nytrecipe.com/dairy-free-cream/