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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of mascarpone?

Cream cheese + heavy cream (4:1), Coconut cream + cashew cream and Creme fraiche are the easiest swaps. Below: 3 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Cream cheese + heavy cream (4:1). Use the same amount. Mix 4 parts cream cheese with 1 part cream.

Adjust: Beat until smooth.

  1. Cream cheese + heavy cream (4:1)

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Mix 4 parts cream cheese with 1 part cream.

    Flavor
    Close — slightly more tang.
    Texture
    Same body.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Beat until smooth.
    Best for
    Tiramisu, Cheesecake

  2. Coconut cream + cashew cream

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Blend both. Adds coconut undertone.

    Flavor
    Mild coconut.
    Texture
    Smooth, thick.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Chill coconut cream 24h, whip with cashews.
    Best for
    Vegan tiramisu

    vegan · dairy free

  3. Creme fraiche

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Slightly less fat, more tang.

    Flavor
    Tangier.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Good in any recipe.
    Best for
    Sauces, Desserts

Common questions

What is the best substitute for mascarpone?

Cream cheese + heavy cream (4:1) is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Mix 4 parts cream cheese with 1 part cream.

What is a vegan substitute for mascarpone?

Good vegan options are Coconut cream + cashew cream.

What is a dairy-free substitute for mascarpone?

Good dairy-free options are Coconut cream + cashew cream.

How much should I use instead of mascarpone?

It depends on the swap. Cream cheese + heavy cream (4:1): Use the same amount. Coconut cream + cashew cream: Use the same amount. Creme fraiche: Use the same amount.

Scale it to your recipe

Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.

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