10 Best Sour Cream Substitutes (Works with All Recipes!) (2024)

Running low on sour cream? Don't rush to the store to grab another container. You may have a sour cream substitute hanging out in your fridge!

10 Best Sour Cream Substitutes (Works with All Recipes!) (1)

Best Sour Cream Substitutes

From topping baked potatoes, nachos, or a bowl of hot chili, sour cream is a delicious, versatile ingredient used in sweet and savory dishes.

So what do you do when your recipe calls for sour cream and you're out or need a quick substitution? Thankfully, you've got options.

Whether you need a creamy base for a dip, topping for your tacos, or added moisture for cakes, muffins, scones, and cookies, here are the 10 of the best sour cream substitutes to try and the best uses for each.

And since sour cream is used in a variety of ways in many different recipes, knowing how to best replace it with the right ingredients is good to know.

Jump to:
  • Best Sour Cream Substitutes
  • Plain Greek Yogurt
  • Plain Yogurt
  • Mayonnaise
  • Crème Fraîche
  • Buttermilk
  • Cream Cheese
  • Cottage Cheese
  • Cashews
  • Coconut Cream
  • Coconut Milk
  • Tofu
  • Recipes to use sour cream substitutes

Plain Greek Yogurt

Best uses: dips, sauces, marinades, baking

Greek yogurt is a delicious sour cream substitute made by straining the whey from regular yogurt, which results in a thicker, richer consistency.

Greek yogurt can be used in many of the same ways as sour cream, including dips, sauces, and marinades. Just be sure to use full-fat plain Greek yogurt when substituting in sauces and baking recipes to prevent curdling.

To make it taste more like sour cream, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for every cup of Greek yogurt used.

When baking cakes, cupcakes, or any other baked goods, use a 1:1 ratio in recipes when substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. You won’t be able to taste the difference once it’s baked.

Plain Yogurt

Best uses: dips. spreads, dressings, sauces, toppings, baking

Plain yogurt is a versatile substitute for sour cream and can be used in place of sour cream in most recipes. It will give you a similar texture and tanginess, and swapping sour cream for yogurt is a simple 1:1 ratio.

Since yogurt is creamy and slightly acidic, it makes the perfect base for dips, spreads, dressings, and sauces.

It's also delicious on tacos, enchiladas, baked potatoes, and chili. yogurt can also be used as a base for dips and spreads. Flavor it with herbs and create a variety of different flavors.

Mayonnaise

Best uses: dips, sauces, toppings, marinades, salads

Mayo may seem like an odd choice for a sour cream substitute, but it actually works quite well. The key is to choose a mayonnaise that is light in color and flavor so that it doesn't overpower the other ingredients in the dish.

Since mayo has a similar consistency to sour cream, it can be used in many of the same ways. It can be used as a base for dips and sauces, or as a topping for baked potatoes. It can also be used in place of sour cream in recipes like cheese soufflé or potato salads.

So next time you're out of sour cream, don't hesitate to give mayo a try.

Crème Fraîche

Best uses: casseroles, dips, sauces, toppings

Crème fraîche is a versatile sour cream substitute that can be used in a variety of dishes, including dips, sauces, and casseroles. It can also be used as a topping for baked potatoes or mixed into mashed potatoes for an extra creamy consistency.

While sour cream is made from milk that has been cultured with bacteria, crème fraîche is made from cream that has been soured with bacteria. This key difference gives crème fraîche a slightly tangier flavor and a richer, thicker texture.

If you're looking for a sour cream substitute that will add a touch of elegance to your next meal, crème fraîche is a perfect choice.

Buttermilk

Best uses: baking, dressings, marinades, pancakes, baking

Buttermilk is often used as a sour cream substitute because it has a similar consistency and tangy flavor.

While sour cream is made from cream that has been fermented with live bacteria, buttermilk is made from milk that has been fermented with lactic acid bacteria, giving it a slightly sour taste.

It can also be used in baking recipes, such as pancakes or muffins. The acidity of buttermilk will help to create a light and fluffy texture in baked goods.

When substituting buttermilk for sour cream, we recommend using ¾ cup of buttermilk for every cup of sour cream called for.

Cream Cheese

Best uses: dips, dressings, sauces, baking, savory dishes, breads, pancakes

When it comes to sour cream substitutes, cream cheese is a great option. It has a similar consistency and can be used in many of the same ways.

It can be used as a sour cream substitute in dips, dressings, and sauces. It's also a good choice for baked goods like muffins, quick breads, and pancakes.

When substituting cream cheese for sour cream, use an equal amount. Keep in mind that cream cheese is softer than sour cream, so it won't hold up as well in dishes that are cooked or baked.

Cottage Cheese

Best uses: dips, spreads, baking, savory dishes, soups, sauces

Cottage cheese is a sour cream substitute with a mild flavor and can be used in dips, spreads, and other dishes. It is also good for baking and savory dishes such as mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese.

Cottage cheese can also be used as a sour cream substitute in soups or sauces. Just be sure to to purée the cottage cheese.

How to make cottage cheese sour cream:

  1. In a food processor or blender, combine 1 cup of cottage cheese and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
  2. Blend create a smooth texture and prevent lumps from forming.

When substituting cottage cheese for sour cream, be sure to use a 1:1 ratio. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of sour cream, you would use 1 cup of cottage cheese.

Cashews

Best uses: dips, dressings, toppings

Anyone who's tried to make a dairy-free sour cream knows there are few substitutes that mimic the taste and texture of sour cream. However, cashews come surprisingly close. They also have a slightly sour flavor that works well in dips and sauces.

How to make cashew sour cream:

  1. Soak a cup of raw, unsalted cashews in water overnight or for at least 3 hours.
  2. Drain and combine with the juice of 1 lemon, ¼ cup of water, and a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.
  3. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add more water, if needed, and apple cider vinegar if the mixture is not tangy enough.
  4. Add sea salt to taste.
  5. Transfer into a container and refrigerate for a couple of hours. The mixture will thicken up.

Coconut Cream

Best uses: dips, dressings, toppings, baking

For those who are looking for a dairy-free sour cream substitute, coconut cream is a great option. Made from the meat of the coconut, it has a similar consistency to sour cream and can be used in dips, on tacos, or as a topping for baked potatoes.

How to make dairy-free sour cream using coconut cream:

  1. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 cup coconut cream, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Taste and add more lemon juice for a tangier flavor. Adjust salt, if needed.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Coconut Milk

Best uses: dips, dressings, toppings, baking

Coconut milk is a sour cream substitute made from the meat of the coconut, which is crushed and combined with water. It's a good substitute because it has a similar consistency and can be used in many of the same dishes.

How to make dairy-free sour cream using coconut milk:

  1. Chill a can of coconut milk in the fridge overnight.
  2. Open the can and skim the thick coconut cream off the top and transfer the cream to a mixing bowl.
  3. Mix with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Use ½ tablespoon lemon juice for ½ cup of coconut cream.
  4. Adjust salt and lemon juice, if needed.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

When using coconut milk as a sour cream substitute, be sure to use full-fat coconut milk.

Tofu

Tofu is a vegan-friendly sour cream substitute that can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a similar consistency to sour cream and can be used in the same way.

How to make tofu sour cream:

  1. Drain 1 package of silken tofu. Be sure to press out any water.
  2. Combine tofu with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon vinegar, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
  3. In a blender or food processor, blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. Transfer into an air-tight container and store in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Whether you're looking for a healthier option or trying to avoid dairy, tofu sour cream is worth considering.

While sour cream substitutes may not have the same flavor as traditional sour cream, they are a great way to add creaminess to your favorite recipes. So next time you're in the mood for sour cream, consider reaching for a sour cream substitute instead.

Recipes to use sour cream substitutes

  • Black Bean Soup
  • Cauliflower Tacos
  • Crispy Potato Tacos
  • Instant Pot Tomato Soup
  • Coconut Chickpea Curry

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10 Best Sour Cream Substitutes (Works with All Recipes!) (2024)

FAQs

What is a good substitute for sour cream in a recipe? ›

Here are the top 10 sour cream substitutes you can use in the kitchen.
  • Yogurt. Yogurt is your best substitute for sour cream. ...
  • Mayonnaise. Mayo is a great sour cream substitute. ...
  • Buttermilk. ...
  • Crème Fraîche. ...
  • Cream Cheese. ...
  • DIY Sour Cream. ...
  • Kefir. ...
  • Mexican Crema.
Feb 21, 2023

What is the fancy version of sour cream? ›

Creme Fraìche makes whatever it touches fancy. It's the cultured French cousin of sour cream, a rich and luscious topping for everything from baked vegetables, to pancakes, to soups, to tacos, and beyond.

Can I substitute ricotta cheese for sour cream in a cake recipe? ›

We recommend whole milk ricotta to mimic the richness of sour cream. Swap ricotta 1:1 for the sour cream in your recipe. As an option, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to add some tang.

How to make sour cream at home in 5 minutes? ›

Place 1 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice or distilled white vinegar in a clean 1 pint glass jar and stir with a clean spoon until combined. Cover with a paper towel or cheesecloth and secure with a rubber band.

What is a good non-dairy substitute for sour cream? ›

Best non-dairy substitutes
  • Cashews. Soak a cup of raw cashews in a bowl of room temperature water for at least three hours. ...
  • Coconut Cream. Place a can of full-fat coconut cream in the refrigerator for at least six hours. ...
  • Full-Fat Coconut Milk. ...
  • White Beans. ...
  • Mayonnaise. ...
  • Vegan Sour Cream. ...
  • Yogurt. ...
  • Buttermilk.
Apr 1, 2022

What is the best substitute for sour cream in stroganoff? ›

Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative to the traditionally used sour cream in beef stroganoff recipes, so you can be confident that your family is getting a satisfying, healthy meal. Fresh dill and paprika will provide a sweet, slightly smoky garnish to top off the dish.

How do you mimic sour cream? ›

Greek yogurt is another easy sour cream swap, thanks to its creaminess and tart flavor. People often pick it in lieu of sour cream if they're trying to make a recipe a little lighter.

What do British people call sour cream? ›

Sour cream (sometimes known as soured cream in British English) is a dairy product obtained by fermenting regular cream with certain kinds of lactic acid bacteria.

What is the closest sauce to sour cream? ›

An elegant but slightly less-tangy swap for sour cream is crème fraîche. It has a thick texture similar to sour cream, but the flavor is a bit milder. Crème fraîche works well in sauces, casseroles, and cakes, but may require an added squeeze of lemon to work as a substitute in dips.

Can I use Miracle Whip instead of sour cream? ›

"I didn't have any sour cream so I added 2 or 3 tablespoons of miracle whip instead. It turned out very tasty.

What is a substitute for sour cream in vanilla cake? ›

Plain yogurt: Equal parts plain yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream. Not only does it have a similar texture and tangy flavor, but it also has more protein.

Can I use heavy whipping cream instead of sour cream? ›

According to the FDA, as long as a product has 36% milk fat or more, it's a good substitute for sour cream, whether it's called heavy cream or heavy whipping cream.

How to make your own sour cream? ›

Whisk together one cup of cream and one teaspoon of distilled white vinegar or lemon juice in a clean mason jar. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then add ¼ cup of whole milk. Stir well to combine. Cover the jar with a lid or cheesecloth secured with a rubber band, and let it sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours.

Does daisy sour cream contain live cultures? ›

Live & Active Cultures, the Secret to Daisy's Creamy Wholesomeness.

Why add sour cream to recipes? ›

Sour cream is one of the fattiest dairy products; the extra fat content (for example, adding sour cream to a cake instead of milk) will make the cake moister and richer, says Wilk. "Fat, in any form (butter, lard, cream, etc.) shortens gluten strands, which essentially leads to the most tender baked goods," she adds.

Can I replace sour cream with milk? ›

12. Regular Milk. Although not an ideal substitute due to the lack of flavor and thick texture, you can use regular milk as a substitute for sour cream when in a pinch. Regular milk, as a replacement, is best in baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and bread.

Can you substitute milk for sour cream in a recipe? ›

Milk or Milk Powder

Mix one cup of whole milk and a tablespoon juice of lemon to make sour cream replacement. Evaporated milk can be substituted for milk if you don't have any milk. Mix 2/3 cup powder milk with 3/4 cup water and a teaspoon of lemon juice/vinegar to make sour cream.

Does Greek yogurt taste like sour cream? ›

Greek yogurt, in particular, can be a bit tangier than sour cream. To balance this out, consider adding a touch of sweetness to your recipe, perhaps a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sugar, to counteract the tartness.

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