If you’ve ever craved a luscious, cloud-like topping for your favorite desserts that just happens to be vegan, dairy-free, and totally delicious, let me introduce you to Coconut Whipped Cream. It’s a dreamy, versatile treat made from thick, chilled coconut cream, a touch of sweetness, and a splash of vanilla. Ready in just a few minutes and loaded with tropical flavor, it’s guaranteed to become your new go-to whenever you need a creamy, elegant finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream (chilled overnight)
- 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How to Make Coconut Whipped Cream
Step 1: Chill Your Coconut Milk or Cream
The secret to fluffy Coconut Whipped Cream starts before you even open the can—pop a can of full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream in the refrigerator overnight. Chilling helps the cream separate from the liquid, ensuring a stable, airy whip.
Step 2: Scoop Out the Solid Cream
Once thoroughly chilled, open the can gently; you’ll notice the thick, solid coconut cream has risen to the top. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out this solidified layer and transfer it into a chilled mixing bowl, leaving behind any runny liquid (save that for smoothies!).
Step 3: Whip Until Fluffy
Using either a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the solid coconut cream on high speed for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch as it transforms into a dreamy, fluffy cloud that holds soft peaks—exactly what you want in a whipped topping!
Step 4: Sweeten and Flavor
Add your powdered sugar or maple syrup and the vanilla extract, if using. Whip again for another minute, tasting as you go, until everything’s incorporated and perfectly smooth. That’s it—your Coconut Whipped Cream is ready to dollop, dip, or swirl!
How to Serve Coconut Whipped Cream
Garnishes
Dress up your Coconut Whipped Cream with a sprinkle of toasted coconut, a dusting of cocoa powder, or maybe a handful of fresh berries—just a tiny flourish can make any dessert feel even more special. If you want to get fancy, a few edible flower petals or a tiny twist of citrus zest brings a pop of color and fragrance.
Side Dishes
Nothing pairs better with Coconut Whipped Cream than a slice of warm vegan pie, a bowl of ripe strawberries, stacks of weekend pancakes, or even a mug of hot chocolate. Seriously, you’ll want to put it on everything: crisps, cobblers, brownies, puddings, and more!
Creative Ways to Present
Show off your luscious Coconut Whipped Cream in parfait glasses layered with fruit and granola, pipe it into rosettes for a show-stopping cupcake topper, or fill little shot glasses for an easy, elegant mini dessert bar. Your imagination is truly the only limit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Coconut Whipped Cream keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week. Store it in an airtight container, and give it a quick whip or stir before serving to revive that signature fluffiness.
Freezing
You can actually freeze Coconut Whipped Cream! Place dollops on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge before re-whipping and serving—though the texture may be slightly softer, the taste is just as dreamy.
Reheating
No reheating needed for Coconut Whipped Cream, but if it firms up too much in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, then whisk until light and airy again.
FAQs
Can I use light coconut milk for Coconut Whipped Cream?
For best results, always stick with full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream. Light versions don’t contain enough fat to whip up into the creamy, stable texture you want.
My coconut milk didn’t separate—what went wrong?
Some brands simply don’t separate well. Make sure you’re using full-fat and check reviews for brands known to work reliably. If your can is still liquidy, unfortunately, it won’t whip.
Is Coconut Whipped Cream suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Absolutely! Coconut Whipped Cream is naturally dairy-free and vegan, making it a fabulous topping for anyone avoiding dairy products.
Can I flavor Coconut Whipped Cream with other extracts?
Definitely. Vanilla is classic, but try almond, orange, or lemon extract for something different. Even a dash of cinnamon or cocoa powder can switch things up.
How do I make Coconut Whipped Cream extra firm for piping?
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters ahead of time, and whip the cream thoroughly. If you need extra stability (like for frosting cupcakes), try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder while whipping.
Final Thoughts
Once you make Coconut Whipped Cream just once, you’ll start dreaming up all the ways to enjoy it: atop fruity crisps, in coffee, or simply by the spoonful. Don’t wait—give it a try and discover why this creamy, tropical treat delights everyone who tastes it!
PrintCoconut Whipped Cream Recipe
Learn how to make the perfect dairy-free and vegan coconut whipped cream with just a few simple ingredients. This creamy and fluffy topping is ideal for desserts, beverages, and more.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
- Category: Topping
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream (chilled overnight)
- 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Chill the Coconut Milk: Chill the can of coconut milk or cream in the refrigerator overnight.
- Separate the Cream: Scoop out only the solidified coconut cream from the can, leaving the liquid behind.
- Whip the Cream: Place the cream in a chilled mixing bowl and beat on high speed for 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add Sweeteners: Mix in powdered sugar or maple syrup and vanilla extract, then whip again until smooth.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Re-whip before serving if needed.
Notes
- For best results, use a brand of coconut milk that separates well when chilled.
- Avoid using light coconut milk for this recipe.
- Adjust sweetness or flavor with almond or citrus extracts as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg