Half and half is a popular dairy ingredient that thickens and enriches dishes like soups and creamy sauces.
But if you don’t have any or are trying to reduce your dairy consumption, you may wonder what the best substitutes for half and half are.
In our blog post, we’ll explore the best Substitutes for half and half and explain how to use each in recipes.
Read on to learn more about these helpful replacements!
1. Milk and Cornstarch
Milk and cornstarch are first on our list of best substitutes for half and half and make a great substitute for half and half.
To make these best substitutes for half and half, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 cup of milk until the mixture is completely smooth.
This combination gives a thick and creamy consistency that mimics the richness of half and half.
These best substitutes for half and half can be used in most recipes, such as creamy soups or sauces, and it is also a good choice for baking.
The cornstarch helps to thicken the milk, so it is ideal for recipes that require a thickened liquid. It is important to note that this substitute does not have the same fat content as half and half.
You may consider using milk and heavy cream instead if you are looking for a substitution with a higher fat content.
This combination gives a similar flavor and texture to half and half but with more fat.
Additionally, these best substitutes for half and half can be used instead of regular milk in many recipes, making it a versatile option.
2. Powdered Heavy Cream
Powdered heavy cream is also on our list of best substitutes for half and half.
It is similar to powdered milk in that fresh cream has removed the water. It’s not as commonly available as powdered milk.
But if you’re often running out of half-and-half, it wouldn’t hurt to get a bag online and consider yourself well-prepared.
Simply combine 12 cups of heavy cream powder with a cup of water to achieve the desired consistency as a half-and-half alternative (but feel free to experiment with the exact measurements).
3. Milk and Heavy Cream
Milk and heavy cream can be used as best substitutes for half and half. Milk is the most common substitute and can be used in equal parts to replace half and half.
Heavy cream, also known as double cream, is another excellent substitute.
It is much thicker than milk, so it should be mixed with an equal amount of milk to create a texture that is more similar to half and half.
When using either of these best substitutes for half and half, it is important to remember that the taste will be slightly different from the original.
However, if you are looking for a lower-fat or dairy-free option, either can be a great alternative.
For baking and other recipes that require thickening, adding a small amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder to the mixture can help create a similar consistency.
4. Heavy Cream and Water
Heavy cream and water can make the best Substitutes for half and half in recipes.
This combination is a good way to lower the fat content in dishes while still getting some of the creamy richness you would get with half and half.
Start by combining equal parts of heavy cream and water in a bowl and whisk them together until they are well blended.
Depending on the recipe, you may need to adjust the ratio to get the desired consistency. You can also add some butter to give it a richer flavor.
When using this combination as Substitute for half and half, it is important to note that it will not thicken the same way as half and half, so you must add more thickening agents if necessary.
Additionally, it will not curdle when heated, so it is a good option for dishes that require cooking.
This combination can be used in various recipes, from soups to sauces and casseroles. Experiment with it and find the perfect combination for your dish!
5. Butter and Milk
This combination of butter and milk is one of the most common best substitutes for half and half.
This simple substitution works great in recipes that call for cream, like sauces and soups, but it may not be as creamy or rich as half and half.
Mix equal parts of melted butter with whole milk to use this substitute.
These best substitutes for half and half will have a higher fat content than the original half and half.
So it’s best to start with half of what the recipe calls for and adjust according to your preference.
6. Evaporated Milk
Lastly, on our list of best substitutes for half and half is Evaporated milk, also essentially decreased milk.
This method evaporates around 60% of the milk’s water content, producing a creamy, thicker, concentrated milk with a moderately sweet, toasted flavor.
It’s thicker than conventional milk, so it works well as the best substitutes for half and half in cooking and coffee.
(If it’s too thick, thin it out with water.) It’s also shelf-stable, so keep a few cans in your pantry when needed.
Conclusion
Look no further if you’re looking for the best substitutes for half and half in your recipes.
In our blog post, we have explored the best substitutes for half and half, so you can find the perfect replacement for your recipes without compromising taste or texture.
Whether you need a dairy-free alternative or want to switch things up, these best substitutes for half and half will help you find the perfect alternative to half and half.
Enjoy which one is best for you!
