Coconut milk substitutes
Coconut milk substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Almond milk
Same amount as the coconut milk
Similar dairy alternative with different flavor.
The best substitutes for coconut milk are almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- smoothies
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of coconut milk | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Almond milksmoothies | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Oat milksmoothies | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Cashew milksmoothies | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Soy milksmoothies | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Rice milksmoothies | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Hemp milksmoothies | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Almond milk
different taste, similar texture
Similar dairy alternative with different flavor.
- Best for
- smoothies, baking, sauces, soups
Different flavor, similar texture.
Oat milk
different taste, similar texture
Similar dairy alternative with different flavor.
- Best for
- smoothies, baking, sauces, soups
Different flavor, similar texture.
Cashew milk
different taste, similar texture
Similar dairy alternative with different flavor.
- Best for
- smoothies, baking, sauces, soups
Different flavor, similar texture.
Soy milk
different taste, similar texture
Similar dairy alternative with different flavor.
- Best for
- smoothies, baking, sauces, soups
Different flavor, similar texture.
Rice milk
different taste, similar texture
Similar dairy alternative with different flavor.
- Best for
- smoothies, baking, sauces, soups
Different flavor, similar texture.
Hemp milk
different taste, similar texture
Similar dairy alternative with different flavor.
- Best for
- smoothies, baking, sauces, soups
Different flavor, similar texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use almond milk instead of coconut milk?
Yes, almond milk is a good substitute for coconut milk. It has a different flavor but similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between coconut milk and almond milk?
Coconut milk has a tropical, creamy flavor, while almond milk has a nutty, mild flavor. Both are dairy alternatives but have different taste profiles.
Can I use oat milk instead of coconut milk?
Yes, oat milk can work as a substitute, though it has a different flavor. It provides similar creaminess and can be used in most recipes.
Why is coconut milk so popular in cooking?
Coconut milk is popular because it adds creamy, tropical flavor and is versatile in many different types of cuisine and dishes.
Tips for substituting coconut milk
6 tips- Coconut milk adds creamy, tropical flavor to dishes
- Coconut milk can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Coconut milk pairs well with curry, ginger, and lime
- Coconut milk works well in Asian and tropical cuisines
- Coconut milk can be used to make smoothies, sauces, and soups
- Store coconut milk in the refrigerator