Skip to content

Cream substitutes

The closest substitute for Cream is Coconut Cream, which works but the drink will taste a little different. Dairy-free; adds coconut. In a pinch, use Whipped Cream, Condensed Milk or Milk.

Swap it in 19 drinksQuestions

What to use instead of Cream

Substitute

Coconut CreamWorks, tastes different

Dairy-free; adds coconut.

Same amount

Whipped CreamLast resort

Sweetened, so cut the syrup.

Same amount

Condensed MilkLast resort

Very sweet; use half and cut the syrup.

Use half the amount

MilkLast resort

Much thinner; the drink loses its body.

Same amount

Almost the same: most people won’t notice. Works, tastes different: still a good drink, just a different one. Last resort: better than skipping the drink. Typical drink: the usual change in ABV, in percentage points, across the drinks below.

Swap it in your drink

Pick a substitute to see how much to pour in each drink with Cream, how strong the drink ends up and when to adjust the sugar.

  • Alexander

    30ml (1 oz) Cream → 30ml (1 oz) Coconut Cream

    Same strength

  • Brandy Alexander

    30ml (1 oz) Cream → 30ml (1 oz) Coconut Cream

    Same strength

  • Dirty Banana

    60ml (2 oz) Cream → 60ml (2 oz) Coconut Cream

    Same strength

  • Espresso Eggnog Martini

    30ml (1 oz) Cream → 30ml (1 oz) Coconut Cream

    Same strength

  • Golden Cadillac

    30ml (1 oz) Cream → 30ml (1 oz) Coconut Cream

    Same strength

  • Golden Dream

    10ml (⅓ oz) Cream → 10ml (⅓ oz) Coconut Cream

    Same strength

  • Grasshopper

    30ml (1 oz) Cream → 30ml (1 oz) Coconut Cream

    Same strength

  • Hot Shot

    15ml (½ oz) Cream → 15ml (½ oz) Coconut Cream

    Same strength

What is Cream?

Rich dairy cream used in dessert cocktails like the White Russian and Ramos Gin Fizz.

All 19 drinks with Cream

Got Cream? It also replaces

Questions about Cream substitutes

What is the best substitute for Cream?

Coconut Cream is the closest substitute for Cream, though the drink will taste a little different. Dairy-free; adds coconut. Use the same amount.

What can I use instead of Cream in an Alexander?

Coconut Cream: swap 30ml (1 oz) of Cream for 30ml (1 oz) of Coconut Cream.

How much Condensed Milk do I use instead of Cream?

Use half the amount: 30 ml (1 oz) of Cream becomes 15 ml of Condensed Milk.

More mixer substitutes

Out of Cream?

Proof knows these swaps. Tell it which bottles you have and it shows the drinks you can still make.

Get Proof on the App StoreGet Proof on Google Play