Sour Cream Substitute: 7 Swaps for Dips, Baking and Cooking
Published · 4 min read
Greek yogurt is the best sour cream substitute: use it 1:1 in dips, dressings, baking and as a topping. It is just as tangy and creamy, with more protein and fewer calories.
Sour cream substitutes (for 1 cup / 240 g)
| Substitute | Amount | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Greek yogurt | 1 cup | Everything |
| Crème fraîche | 1 cup | Sauces (doesn’t split when boiled) |
| Plain yogurt | 1 cup, drained 15 min | Dips, toppings |
| Cottage cheese | 1 cup blended + 1 tbsp lemon juice | Dips, baking |
| Cream cheese | ¾ cup + 3 tbsp milk | Baking, frosting |
| Buttermilk | ¾ cup (plus a bit more flour) | Cakes and muffins |
| Cashew cream | 1 cup | Vegan dips and toppings |
Tips
- Hot dishes: crème fraîche is the safest; yogurt should go in after the pan comes off the heat.
- Baking: Greek yogurt and buttermilk keep cakes moist, and the acid still reacts with baking soda.
- Tacos and quesadillas: Greek yogurt with lime and salt tastes just like sour cream on our black bean quesadillas.
More ideas in the substitution chart.
Questions
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, 1:1. It has a similar tang and texture with more protein and fewer calories. Stir it into hot dishes off the heat so it doesn’t split.
What is a dairy-free sour cream substitute?
Blend 1 cup soaked cashews with 2 tablespoons lemon juice, a pinch of salt and enough water to make it smooth, or use coconut cream with lemon.
