Out of Half-and-Half? Try These 5 Easy Swaps
Run out of half-and-half mid-recipe? No worries. We've got 5 tried-and-tested substitutes that actually work. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or baking something special, these alternatives will save your dish. The most popular swap is milk + butter, which works great in both cooking and baking. Each substitute below includes exact measurements and tips so you know exactly what to do.
⚡ Quick Answer (30 sec read)
Use Milk + butter instead. Mix ⅞ cup milk + 1½ tbsp melted butter for 1 cup half-and-half.
✅ 5 Tested Half-and-Half Substitutes (With Exact Ratios)
1. Milk + butter
BothMix ⅞ cup milk + 1½ tbsp melted butter for 1 cup half-and-half.
2. Milk + heavy cream
BothMix ½ cup milk + ½ cup heavy cream. Perfect match.
3. Evaporated milk
BothUse 1:1 ratio. Very similar consistency.
4. Greek yogurt
CookingUse ⅞ cup yogurt for 1 cup half-and-half. Tangier, thicker.
5. Coconut cream + almond milk
BothMix ½ cup each. Dairy-free option.
Tips for Substituting Half-and-Half
When substituting half-and-half in baking, always consider how the swap affects moisture, fat content, and flavor. Start with the exact ratios given, then adjust in future batches if needed. For best results, bring refrigerated substitutes to room temperature before mixing.
What NOT to Do When Substituting Half-and-Half
- xDon't use the same amount without checking the ratio - some substitutes are stronger or weaker than half-and-half.
- xDon't substitute in recipes where half-and-half is the star ingredient - the difference will be too noticeable.
- xDon't combine multiple substitutes at once - pick one and adjust from there.
Quick Substitution Ratios
| Substitute | Amount for 1 cup Half-and-Half | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Milk + butter | Mix ⅞ cup milk + 1½ tbsp melted butter for 1 cup half-and-half | both |
| Milk + heavy cream | Mix ½ cup milk + ½ cup heavy cream | both |
| Evaporated milk | Use 1:1 ratio | both |
| Greek yogurt | Use ⅞ cup yogurt for 1 cup half-and-half | cooking |
Safety Tips
- 1.Always check for allergies - if someone is allergic to half-and-half, they may also react to certain substitutes like nut-based alternatives.
- 2.When baking, substitutes can affect rising and texture. Test with a small batch first if making for an important occasion.
- 3.Check expiration dates on substitutes - using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for half-and-half?
The best substitute for half-and-half is Milk + butter. Mix ⅞ cup milk + 1½ tbsp melted butter for 1 cup half-and-half. This works well in most recipes that call for half-and-half.
Can I use milk instead of half-and-half?
Yes, milk + butter is an excellent substitute for half-and-half. Mix ⅞ cup milk + 1½ tbsp melted butter for 1 cup half-and-half.
What can I use instead of half-and-half in baking?
For baking, the best half-and-half substitutes are: Milk + butter, Milk + heavy cream, Evaporated milk. These options will give you similar results in cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
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