The 5 Best Substitutes For Clotted Cream

When it comes to indulging in creamy desserts, nothing beats a dollop of clotted cream.

This thick dairy product is made by heating full-fat cow’s milk until it forms a layer of yellowish fat on the surface.

The fat is then skimmed off and cooled to form clotted cream.

Clotted cream has a rich flavor and velvety texture that makes it perfect for topping scones, pancakes, or even fresh fruit.

But what if you don’t have access to this luxurious treat?

Fortunately, there are several substitutes for clotted cream that can be used in its place.

In this article, I will share five of the best options for when you need an alternative to clotted cream.

What is Clotted Cream?

Clotted cream is a thick, creamy dairy product that originated in the southwest of England.

It is made by slowly heating unpasteurized cow’s milk until it forms a layer of clots on top, which are skimmed off and cooled to form the finished product.

Clotted cream has a rich, buttery flavor and velvety texture that makes it popular for use in baking and desserts.

It’s often served alongside scones with jam or poured over fruit like strawberries.

The color can range from yellowish white to golden brown depending on how long the cream was heated during production.

Clotted cream should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to two weeks after opening.

The 5 Best Substitutes For Clotted Cream

Clotted cream is a thick, rich dairy product that can be hard to find.

Fortunately, there are some great substitutes available if you’re looking for an alternative.

Here we look at the five best options:

1 – Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a thick, creamy dairy product made from strained cow’s milk.

It has a tangy flavor and velvety texture that makes it ideal for use in savory dishes or as a topping for desserts.

Greek yogurt is high in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

When substituting Greek yogurt for clotted cream, you can expect the same richness without all the added calories.

It can be used to create fluffy sauces or smoothies, and even as an alternative to sour cream when baking cakes or muffins.

Greek yogurt is also great for adding creaminess to soups and stews without sacrificing flavor.

2 – Mascarpone Cheese

Mascarpone cheese is a rich, creamy Italian dairy product made from cream and citric acid.

It has a velvety texture and sweet flavor that makes it an ideal substitute for clotted cream.

Mascarpone can be used in both savory and sweet dishes, such as lasagna or tiramisu.

The cheese can also be combined with other ingredients to create delicious sauces or fillings for pastries.

When substituting mascarpone for clotted cream, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar depending on the recipe.

This versatile cheese is sure to add a unique depth of flavor to any dish!

3 – Sour Cream

Sour cream is a popular dairy product made by adding lactic acid bacteria to heavy cream.

It has a thick, creamy texture and tangy flavor that makes it an ideal topping for tacos, burritos, baked potatoes, and other dishes.

When substituting sour cream for clotted cream in recipes, you may need to adjust the amount used as it will be less rich than its counterpart.

However, sour cream can still provide the same creamy texture and subtle sweetness that clotted cream does.

It can also be used in baking or added to sauces for extra richness and flavor.

4 – Crème Fraiche

Crème fraiche is a rich and creamy dairy product that originated in France.

It has a slightly tangy flavor, with a thick and velvety texture.

The high fat content of crème fraiche makes it ideal for adding to sauces or soups as it won’t curdle at high temperatures.

It can also be used as an alternative to clotted cream due to its similar consistency and taste.

When substituting crème fraiche for clotted cream, use it in the same way you would use the latter – on top of desserts such as scones or fruit tarts, or stirred into coffee or tea for added richness.

Its versatility makes crème fraiche a great pantry staple!

5 – Heavy Cream or Whipping Cream

Heavy cream and whipping cream are two of the most popular substitutes for clotted cream.

Heavy cream is a thick, rich dairy product that has a high-fat content (36-40%).

It can be used in many recipes to add richness and flavor.

Whipping cream is similar to heavy cream but with slightly less fat (30-35%).

It whips up easily and is often used as a topping for desserts or added to sauces.

Both creams can be used in place of clotted cream, though they may not yield the same consistency.

If you’re looking for something closer to clotted cream, try combining equal parts heavy and whipping creams together before using it in your recipe.

FAQ

What is the American equivalent of clotted cream?

The American equivalent of clotted cream is heavy cream. It has a similar texture and consistency and can be used in many of the same ways as clotted cream, such as for topping scones or on desserts. Heavy cream is higher in fat content than regular milk, making it a good substitute for clotted cream.

Is creme fraiche the same as clotted cream?

No, creme fraiche and clotted cream are not the same. Creme fraiche is a cultured French cream that has a tangy taste and thick texture, while clotted cream is an English dairy product made by heating fresh full-cream cow’s milk until it forms a thick layer of fat on top.

Can I use whipping cream instead of clotted cream?

Yes, you can use whipping cream as an alternative to clotted cream. Whipping cream is lighter and less dense than clotted cream, so it will produce a different texture when used in recipes. However, both types of cream can be used interchangeably in many dishes.

Can I use double cream instead of clotted cream for scones?

Yes, you can use double cream instead of clotted cream for scones. Double cream is slightly less thick and rich than clotted cream but still makes a delicious topping with your freshly baked scones.