You can substitute heavy cream in a recipe using a simple mixture of butter and milk.
Heavy Cream Substitutes: Butter and Milk
While heavy cream adds richness and texture to recipes, you can often create a suitable substitute using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The most common and effective substitute utilizes butter and milk to replicate the fat content of heavy cream.
The Butter and Milk Method
This method works best in recipes where the heavy cream is mixed with other ingredients, such as in sauces, soups, or baked goods. It might not be suitable for applications where heavy cream is whipped, as the substitute won't whip to the same consistency.
Instructions:
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Melt the Butter: In a large glass bowl, melt 1/4 cup (2 ounces or 57 grams) of unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave in short intervals, or in a saucepan over low heat.
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Whisk in Milk: Gradually whisk in 3/4 cup (6 ounces or 177 ml) of whole milk or half-and-half into the melted butter until well combined.
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Yield: This mixture will create 1 cup of heavy cream substitute.
Important Notes:
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Fat Content: This substitution attempts to replicate the fat content of heavy cream, which is what provides richness and body. Using whole milk yields a richer substitute than using lower-fat milk.
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Applications: This substitute works best in cooked applications.
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Whipped Cream: This method is not suitable for making whipped cream.
