Sour cream substitutes

Best swap: Plain Greek yogurt. Use 1 cup plain Greek yogurt per 1 cup.

Sour cream brings fat and gentle acidity, keeping bakes moist and tender while adding a little tang. Most cultured dairy can stand in for it.

I need cups of sour cream Change this and every amount below updates.

What to use instead of sour cream

1. Plain Greek yogurt

Best

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

Best for: Baking, dips, dolloping

A near one-to-one match in both baking and cold uses. Full-fat is closest.

2. Buttermilk (in baking)

1 cup buttermilk, plus reduce another liquid

Best for: Cakes and quick breads

Thinner than sour cream, so cut back another liquid a little to keep the batter right.

3. Cream cheese, softened and thinned

¾ cup cream cheese

¼ cup milk or lemon juice

Best for: Rich frostings and fillings

Beat until smooth. Richer and less tangy than sour cream.

Sour cream substitutes: common questions

What is a good substitute for sour cream?

Plain full-fat Greek yogurt is the closest swap, cup for cup, in both baking and cold dishes. Buttermilk also works in batters if you slightly reduce another liquid.

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream in baking?

Yes. Plain Greek yogurt has similar fat and acidity and works one-to-one in cakes, muffins and quick breads.

More ingredient swaps

🥛 Buttermilk 4 substitutes 🥚 Eggs (in baking) 4 substitutes 🧂 Baking powder 2 substitutes 🧂 Baking soda 1 substitute