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Substitutes for Sour Cream: Dairy, Vegan, and Quick Swaps

Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, vegan cashew cream, and more — every sour cream alternative SubSwap recommends. This guide covers 1 ingredients and 5 substitutions, pulled live from SubSwap's database.

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Substitutes for Sour cream

Plain Greek yogurtSame amount
common

1:1 swap. Nearly identical result in baking and dips. Slightly tangier and higher in protein. Use full-fat for richest result.

Crème fraîcheSame amount

1:1 swap. Richer and less tangy. Works well in sauces and baking. Better for high-heat cooking as it doesn't curdle as easily.

Plain yogurtSame amount
budget

1:1 in most recipes. Thinner consistency — drain through cheesecloth for 30 min to thicken if needed.

Cottage cheese (blended)Same amount
budgetlow-calorie

Blend cottage cheese until smooth for a lower-fat alternative. Good in dips and baked goods; not ideal for sauces.

Coconut cream + lemon juiceSame amount
vegandairy-free

Whisk 1 cup chilled coconut cream with 1 tbsp lemon juice. Adds tang to mimic sour cream. Works in dips and baking.

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