The Brilliant Trick That Turns a Can of Coconut Milk Into Whipped Cream (2024)

Faith Durand

Faith DurandSVP of Content

Faith is the SVP of Content at Apartment Therapy Media and former Editor-in-Chief of The Kitchn. She is the author of three cookbooks, including the James Beard Award-winning The Kitchn Cookbook. She lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband and two daughters.

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updated Jul 11, 2023

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The Brilliant Trick That Turns a Can of Coconut Milk Into Whipped Cream (1)

This trick to this recipe is chilling the can of coconut milk to get a perfectly whipped, vegan whipped cream.

Prep5 minutes

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The Brilliant Trick That Turns a Can of Coconut Milk Into Whipped Cream (2)

If you love having something whipped and creamy with a warm cobbler or fruit pie but are avoiding dairy, I have a sweet little trick for you. Did you know that you can make luscious whipped cream from a can of coconut milk? Here’s how!

This trick is simple: Chill a can of coconut milk, then scoop out the coconut fat that separates out and solidifies (leaving the watery liquid behind), and whip it just like whipped cream. I first spotted this technique at Nutty Kitchen and I just had to try it for myself.

Quick Overview

Steps to Make Coconut Whipped Cream

  1. Chill coconut milk. Place canned coconut milk in the refrigerator until well-chilled.
  2. Scoop out the coconut fat. Scoop out the firm, waxy layer of the coconut cream that has solidified at the top of the can into a bowl. Don’t include the water at the bottom of the can.
  3. Whip it. Whisk or beat on high speed until it becomes fluffy, light, and holds soft peaks, 3 to 5 minutes.

I found that this works really brilliantly; the cold cream whips up into thick yet airy whipped cream. It does taste strongly of coconut, however, as you might expect. So if you do not like the flavor of coconut, this is not for you. But if you want something creamy and non-dairy to go with dessert, this is a fantastic option. The coconut cream is naturally a little sweet, so you can leave it unsweetened. Or you can add a touch of vanilla and sugar to make it a little sweeter — up to you!

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Whipped cream, made from coconut milk! (Image credit: Faith Durand)

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How To Make Whipped Cream from a Can of Coconut Milk

This trick to this recipe is chilling the can of coconut milk to get a perfectly whipped, vegan whipped cream.

Prep time 5 minutes

Nutritional Info

Ingredients

  • 1 (about 15-ounce) can

    full-fat coconut milk

  • 1 tablespoon

    granulated sugar, or more to taste (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon

    vanilla extract, or more to taste (optional)

Equipment

  • Large bowl

  • Whisk, electric hand mixer, or stand mixer

Instructions

  1. Place can coconut milk in the refrigerator and leave it there until well-chilled; I left mine in overnight.

  2. Open the can of coconut milk. There will be a firm, waxy layer on top. Scoop out this firm layer of coconut cream that has solidified at the top of the can into the bowl of a stand mixer or large bowl. Stop as soon as you reach the water at the bottom of the can; don't include anything but the solid cream. (You can use the water in smoothies, or just drink it straight.)

  3. Whisk or beat on high speed until it becomes fluffy, light, and holds soft peaks, 3 to 5 minutes. Whisk or beat in 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract if desired.

Recipe Notes

Storage: I found that this lasted well in the refrigerator for several days.

The Brilliant Trick That Turns a Can of Coconut Milk Into Whipped Cream (2024)

FAQs

Can you whip coconut milk from a can? ›

Did you know that you can make luscious whipped cream from a can of coconut milk? Here's how! This trick is simple: Chill a can of coconut milk, then scoop out the coconut fat that separates out and solidifies (leaving the watery liquid behind), and whip it just like whipped cream.

Why is my coconut milk whipped cream not working? ›

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! If your coconut whipped cream is too stiff when whipping, add some of the reserved liquid from the can to help it blend smoother and create more air!

Can I use canned coconut milk instead of heavy whipping cream? ›

The fat content of coconut milk should be roughly that of a dairy-based heavy cream. So, when a recipe calls for heavy cream, you just make a one-to-one substitution with coconut milk – so long as the fat content matches up.

How to thicken coconut milk whipped cream? ›

One thing you can try is adding a spoonful of tapioca starch at a time to the mix to get it thickening again. Another, is to chill it in the fridge for a few hours longer and then whip again. Remember, coconut milk whipped cream is not going to be the EXACT same as regular whipped cream.

What do you do with canned coconut milk? ›

Use It to Replace Dairy in Creamy Sides

Add rich, creamy texture and nuttiness to classic dishes like creamed spinach and mashed sweet potatoes using this non-dairy option. You can also mix it into rice to delicious effect—coconut rice is just about one of the most irresistible ways to use canned coconut milk.

How long does whipped coconut cream last? ›

Beat for a minute more and then adjust sweetness and vanilla to taste. Use this coconut whipped cream immediately or set it into the refrigerator to chill for a few hours. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It is best used the day-of but will last 5-7 days.

What is the difference between coconut milk and canned coconut milk? ›

Canned Coconut Milk vs Carton

Carton coconut milk is much thinner and more diluted, making it better suited for drinking rather than cooking. If you're looking for an alternative to drinking dairy products, coconut milk in a carton is the way to go.

What does coconut whipped cream taste like? ›

This dairy free topping does have a slight coconut flavor, but other than that my version is perfectly sweetened, rich and creamy, similar to real whipped cream.

Is coconut milk healthier than heavy whipping cream? ›

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.

What is the ratio of coconut milk to 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.

Can you have coconut milk straight from the can? ›

Can canned coconut milk be consumed directly from the can? Yes, canned coconut milk can be consumed directly from the can. However, it is often quite thick and rich, so it may be more enjoyable when mixed with other ingredients or used in recipes.

Can you froth coconut milk from a can? ›

Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is high in fat, which aids in creating a wonderful froth for your coffee cup. Avoid canned coconut milk and go with a carton of coconut milk instead. If you can't find it in a carton, blend a can of coconut milk with water and watch as your frothy coconut milk dreams come true!

How do you whip canned milk? ›

directions
  1. Pour evaporated milk into freezing tray. Place in freezing compartment of refrigerator. When tiny crystals begin to form around edges, turn into chilled bowl and whip with rotary egg beater until stiff enough to hold its shape.
  2. Sugar and vanilla may be added and whipped in at this stage, if desired.

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