FOOD NEWS
The Difference Between Cream Of Coconut And Coconut Cream
BY NIKITA EPHANOV
Cream of coconut and coconut cream may sound simply like inverted names for the same product, but there are a few important distinctions between these two canned goods.
Cream of coconut is thick, rich, and sweet, while coconut cream lacks sugar and is instead a high-fat mixture of coconut solids, water, and a stabilizer.
With a syrupy texture like condensed milk, cream of coconut is made by mixing coconut milk, sugar, and salt over low heat until it reduces into a smooth, flavorful syrup.
The sweetness of cream of coconut makes it an excellent sweetener in cocktails like the Piña Colada, but it also works as a swap for syrup, adding a coconut flavor to any recipe.
In comparison, coconut cream is to coconut milk what whipping cream is to milk. It's a thicker, higher-fat version with a creamy texture and a bolder flavor than coconut milk.
Without any added sugar, coconut cream is versatile and works in both sweet and savory recipes, lending a distinct coconut flavor without overpowering the dish.
It works in curries, soups, and stews or as a cooking base for preparing aromatics or sautéing veggies. For sweets, it can be used for vegan whipped cream, cakes, and milkshakes.