According to the FDA, half-and-half must contain between 10.5 to 18 percent milkfat. For comparison, heavy cream contains at least 36 percent milkfat and regular milk contains at least 3.25 percent milkfat. If you’re trying to cut back on calories and fat, then half-and-half is a good alternative to heavy cream. On the other hand, if you’re trying to increase your fat consumption (such as being on the keto diet), then half-and-half is not your best option. Two tablespoons of half-and-half contain 40 calories, 3g of fat, 2g of saturated fat, and 15mg of cholesterol. By comparison, the same amount of heavy cream contains 50 calories, 5g of fat, 3.5g of saturated fat, and 20mg of cholesterol. RELATED: You Need to Know This Difference Between Heavy Cream and Whipping Cream You can also use half-and-half in recipes that call for equal parts of heavy cream and milk, like this panettone bread pudding. Instead of using 2 cups of heavy cream and 2 cups of milk, you can safely substitute for 4 cups of half-and-half (shopping hint: 4 cups of half-and-half is the equivalent of 1 quart). Light cream (not to be confused for light whipping cream) is the most similar dairy product to half-and-half; it contains between 18 to 30 percent milkfat and is just slightly thicker in consistency than half-and-half. Whole milk, light cream, whipping cream, and even heavy cream are also worthy half-and-half substitutes in any recipe where you’re trying to add creaminess and richness. Use the same amount of half-and-half as what is called for in a recipe; just know that the consistency of your recipe may be a little different than intended (but still delicious). These seamless substitutes for half-and-half are perfect in cheddar and beer soup, slow cooker gingerbread hot chocolate, and apricot-coconut cake. RELATED: This Heavy Cream Substitute Is So Good You Won’t Notice the Difference
