Cream vs Sour cream
A side-by-side guide to substituting Sour cream for Cream (or vice versa).
Sour cream works as a 1:1 swap for Cream in most recipes.
Side-by-side
Sour cream
Conversion: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount)
Tags: common
Notes: Sour cream has a tangy flavor and thinner consistency; works well in baked goods and sauces but may curdle if boiled. Reduce other liquids slightly in recipes.
Read the full guide: Sour cream
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Sour cream has a tangy flavor and thinner consistency; works well in baked goods and sauces but may curdle if boiled. Reduce other liquids slightly in recipes. The conversion is 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).
Common questions
Yes — Sour cream has a tangy flavor and thinner consistency; works well in baked goods and sauces but may curdle if boiled. Reduce other liquids slightly in recipes. Ratio: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).
1:1 substitution (use the same amount). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.
They are similar in most uses, but Sour cream has a tangy flavor and thinner consistency; works well in baked goods and sauces but may curdle if boiled..
Sour cream is one of the options SubSwap lists for Cream. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Cream substitutes.
Looking for more Cream substitutes beyond Sour cream?
See all Cream swaps →