How to Choose the Right Coconut Cream for Your Recipes

Finding the perfect coconut cream can be a daunting task. Fat percentage, liquid or solid texture, organic labels… Staring at the shelf, it's easy to get lost. Yet, it's the secret ingredient that brings unparalleled creaminess and flavour to a fragrant curry, a creamy soup, or an exotic dessert.

This guide is here to help. As a product expert at Joybuy, I'm sharing my advice for choosing the ideal coconut cream for your recipes, without the unnecessary marketing jargon.

How to Choose Coconut Cream?: 3 Key Criteria

Before you check out, it's essential to understand what sets one coconut cream apart from another. Here are three key points to check to ensure you make the right choice when you buy coconut cream.

1. Fat Content?: The Secret to Creaminess

This is arguably the most important criterion. It directly determines the texture and richness of your dish.

• Thick Cream (>20?% fat)?: This is the ideal choice for a creamy curry, rich coating sauces, or melting ganaches. A high fat content, typically between 20% and 24%, guarantees a texture that won't split when heated and provides a full-bodied mouthfeel.
• Light Cream (<20?% fat)?: Thinner in consistency, this is often sold as "light coconut milk". It's perfect for soups, smoothies, or marinades when you want the coconut flavour without the heaviness of a cream.

2. The Format?: Liquid, Concentrated (Santen), or Organic??

Coconut cream comes in several forms, each with its own advantages.

• Liquid Cream (UHT)?: This is the most common format, available in cartons or cans. Ready to use, it's incredibly convenient for everyday cooking.
• Concentrated Cream (Santen)?: Sold as a solid block, santen is dehydrated coconut pulp. Simply dilute it in hot water to reconstitute the cream. Its benefits include a long shelf life and the ability to adjust the consistency to your liking.
• Organic Coconut Cream?: For those who prioritise organic farming, organic coconut cream is a must-have. It often features a minimalist ingredient list, free from additives or preservatives.

3. The Ingredient List?: Simplicity Is Key

A good coconut cream doesn't need a long list of ingredients. Ideally, it should only contain coconut extract and water. Some products include a natural thickener like guar gum to stabilise the texture. This common and safe addition prevents the fat from separating from the water and ensures a smooth, consistent texture.

Recommended Coconut Cream Picks

To guide you, here is our selection of three products with different profiles, all available on Joybuy.

Vietcoco Coconut Cream 20-22% Fat 330 ml

Why we love it?: Vietcoco Coconut Cream offers an excellent balance of richness and versatility. With 20-22% fat, it's rich enough to give body to your savoury dishes, yet flexible enough to be used in your coconut cream desserts.

Highlights?:

• Rich and creamy texture?: ideal for thick, coating sauces.
• Intense coconut flavour?: made from Vietnamese coconuts.
• Convenient size?: the 330 ml carton is the perfect amount for many recipes.

Who is it for?? For anyone looking for a reliable and versatile plant-based cream alternative that can elevate everything from a Thai curry to an exotic panna cotta.

Kara Organic Coconut Cream UHT 24% Fat 200ml

Why we love it?: Kara's cream stands out for its organic certification and ultra-clean ingredient list: 90% organic coconut extract and water. That's it. Its 24% fat content makes it a particularly rich and indulgent option.

Highlights?:

• Certified organic?: a mark of quality for discerning consumers.
• Extra creamy?: its high fat content gives it an unparalleled velvety texture.
• Clean ingredients?: no stabilisers or preservatives.
• Compact size?: the 200 ml container is perfect for smaller portions or to prevent waste.

Who is it for?? For fans of organic coconut cream looking for maximum indulgence for decadent desserts or ultra-creamy sauces.

VDS Coconut Cream - Concentrated (Santen) 200 gr

Why we love it?: This isn't a liquid cream, but a block of santen (concentrated coconut cream). It's the most traditional and cost-effective format. Simply grate or chop it, then mix with hot water to create a cream where you control the consistency.

Highlights?:

• Customisable consistency?: add more or less water for a thicker or thinner cream.
• Very cost-effective?: one 200g block can make a large amount of cream.
• Authentic and intense flavour?: perfect for recipes that require a strong coconut taste.

Who is it for?? For seasoned cooks, fans of authentic Asian cuisine, or anyone who wants a cost-effective, versatile product with a long shelf life.

Looking for Other Plant-Based Creams??

Our selection covers the most common uses, from creamy sauces to indulgent desserts. If you're looking for other formats, lighter creams, or different plant-based alternatives, feel free to explore our full range.

Discover Our Full Range of Coconut Creams

Coconut Cream FAQ

What's the difference between coconut milk and coconut cream??

It's all about concentration and fat content. Coconut cream contains more pulp extract, making it thicker and richer (usually over 17% fat). Coconut milk, which is more diluted with water, is naturally thinner and less fatty.

Can coconut cream replace dairy cream??

Absolutely. It's an excellent plant-based alternative to dairy cream in many recipes. It provides comparable creaminess and works wonderfully in curries, soups, sauces, and even some desserts. Its coconut flavour, while subtle in a slow-cooked dish, will always add an exotic touch.

How do I store coconut cream after opening??

Once opened, transfer the coconut cream to an airtight container (glass or plastic) and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3 to 5 days. The cold will cause it to solidify?: simply stir it gently before use to restore its smooth consistency.