Dream Whip powder has long been a staple ingredient in many dessert recipes. This shelf-stable whipped topping mix adds light, fluffy texture and sweet vanilla flavor to everything from pies and cakes to fruit salads and parfaits.
But what if you don't have any Dream Whip on hand or want to avoid the artificial ingredients? Thankfully, there are plenty of great Dream Whip powder substitutes you can use instead.
What Is Dream Whip Powder?
Dream Whip is a trademarked powdered dessert topping marketed by Kraft Foods. It was created by the Italian company Giorgio Baldi in the 1950s as an easy way to make stabilized whipped cream at home.
The ingredients in Dream Whip include things like sugar, hydrogenated oils, cornstarch, milk proteins, emulsifiers, and natural and artificial flavors. When prepared, it has the light, airy texture of whipped cream with a signature sweet vanilla taste.
To use Dream Whip powder, you simply mix it with cold milk or other liquid until smooth. Then beat that mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. The result is a fluffy whipped topping that's perfect for frosting cakes, filling cream puffs, topping puddings, or folding into no-bake pies and desserts.
Compared to making real whipped cream, Dream Whip is much faster, easier, and holds its shape better. But some people want to avoid the artificial stabilizers and hydrogenated oils it contains. If that's you, these substitutes will work beautifully instead!
Whipped Cream
Whipped cream is simply heavy cream that's been beaten by hand or machine until it's light, fluffy, and forms soft peaks. To get the same stabilization as Dream Whip powder, add a pinch of cornstarch, gelatin, or cream cheese while whipping.
The downside to whipped cream is that it contains more fat and calories than Dream Whip. It also needs to be served shortly after whipping, as it will start to deflate and weep liquid. But for a pure, all-natural substitute, freshly whipped cream can't be beat!
Some tips for making the perfect whipped cream:
- Chill the cream, bowl, and beaters beforehand so it whips up faster.
- Use heavy whipping cream with at least 30% milkfat for best results.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar per cup of cream once soft peaks form. Vanilla too, if desired.
- Don't over-whip or it will turn to butter! Stop when you see soft, droopy peaks.
- For stabilization, beat in a pinch of cornstarch, gelatin, cream cheese, or cream of tartar.
Cool Whip
Cool Whip is another popular whipped topping that makes an excellent Dream Whip substitute. This shelf-stable product is made by Kraft Foods as well - no surprise that it's so similar!
The main difference between Dream Whip powder and Cool Whip is that Cool Whip comes pre-made. You can simply thaw it and use straight from the tub without any whipping required. It has a comparable light, fluffy texture and sweet flavor.
Cool Whip does contain cream and milk ingredients, despite being marketed as non-dairy. It also relies more heavily on hydrogenated oils, corn syrup, and stabilizers to achieve its smooth, scoopable texture. But it's incredibly convenient and whips up in seconds.
To replace Dream Whip powder in recipes, use an equal amount of thawed Cool Whip measured out by the cup or tub. Expect a near-identical whipped topping, though likely a touch sweeter in flavor.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is a delicious, all-natural Dream Whip substitute that's likely already in your fridge. For best results, use heavy whipping cream that contains at least 36% milkfat.
To replace one envelope of Dream Whip powder:
- Combine 1/2 cup cold heavy cream with 1/4 cup milk
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip until soft peaks form
- Add 1-2 tablespoons sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Continue whipping until stiff peaks form
The resulting whipped cream can be used in any recipe that calls for Dream Whip. Though not as stable, it provides that same rich creaminess and sweet flavor. For more stabilization, a small amount of cornstarch, gelatin, or cream cheese can be whipped in as well.
The higher fat content of heavy cream means this substitute will be richer than Dream Whip. But you can't beat the simplicity of just two ingredients from your fridge!
Non-Dairy Whipped Topping
For those avoiding dairy, there are several non-dairy whipped toppings that mimic the light fluffiness of Dream Whip beautifully.
Some popular options include:
- TruWhip - Made from coconut cream, it whips up just like the real thing.
- So Delicious CocoWhip - Whipped coconut cream topping enriched with calcium and vitamins.
- Alpro Whipped - Creamy whipped soy topping from almonds and rice.
These dairy-free whipped toppings are sold in the refrigerated section near other dairy alternatives like soy milk. Be sure to pick an unsweetened variety for the closest match to plain Dream Whip powder.
The coconut-based whipped creams will impart a subtle tropical flavor. But otherwise these mimic the airy texture and mouthfeel of Dream Whip with none of the artificial ingredients.
Powdered Milk
Believe it or not, powdered milk makes an excellent base for DIY whipped topping as well. Combined with a touch of sweetener, it whips up just like Dream Whip.
To replace one envelope of Dream Whip powder:
- Mix 3/4 cup powdered milk with 1/4 cup cold water
- Using a hand mixer, beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes
- Add 2 tablespoons sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- Continue beating until stiff peaks form
The resulting fluffy whipped topping can be used in any application where Dream Whip is called for. It holds its shape relatively well and has a mild, creamy sweetness.
Powdered milk is inexpensive and shelf-stable too. Just be sure to use instant powdered milk, not traditional milk powder. The fine texture whips up much easier. Store any leftovers covered in the fridge.
Marshmallow Fluff
Here's a fun, retro whipped topping substitute if you have marshmallow fluff on hand. Popular in the 1950s-60s, marshmallow creme is essentially just marshmallows in spreadable form.
To replace one envelope of Dream Whip powder:
- Combine 1 cup marshmallow fluff with 1/3 cup milk
- Using a hand mixer, beat until light and fluffy, 2-3 minutes
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Beat until stiff peaks form
The resulting marshmallow whipped cream has a delicious, sweet vanilla flavor. Use it just as you would Dream Whip to top cakes, swirl into pudding, or fold into no-bake desserts.
Marshmallow fluff can be found in the baking aisle near the marshmallows. For an even lighter, fluffier texture, try whipping in some extra air.
Meringue Powder
Meringue powder is a handy ingredient made from pasteurized egg whites. When foamed up with water, it makes a light and fluffy egg-white topping perfect for replacing Dream Whip powder.
To make one envelope's worth:
- Combine 2 tablespoons meringue powder with 1/3 cup cold water
- Using a hand mixer, beat on high until fluffy and white, 2-3 minutes
- Add 1-2 tablespoons sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- Continue beating until stiff peaks form
This whipped meringue topping has a smooth, glossy appearance just like Dream Whip. It's delicious on pie fillings, swirled into cheesecake or mousse, or spooned over fresh fruit.
Meringue powder can be found in the baking aisle or ordered online. Make sure to store it frozen or refrigerated. The whipped meringue topping lasts 2-3 days in the fridge.
Cream Cheese
Here's a rich and tasty substitute for Dream Whip: whipped cream cheese! Beat softened cream cheese with a bit of sweetener for an indulgent, stabilized whipped topping.
To replace one envelope of Dream Whip powder:
- Soften 4 ounces cream cheese to room temperature
- Beat in 1/3 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Add 1 cup heavy cream and beat until stiff peaks form
The cream cheese gives this whipped cream extra body and richness, while the cream lends airiness. Use it to frost cakes, fill cream puffs, or anywhere else you'd use luxurious Dream Whip.
For even more stabilization, a small amount of unflavored gelatin can be dissolved and added as well. This cream cheese whipped cream will keep covered in the fridge for 4-5 days.
Stabilized Egg Whites
Light and airy stabilized egg whites make another excellent Dream Whip replacement. A bit of cream of tartar helps the whipped egg whites hold their lofty volume.
To replace one envelope of Dream Whip powder:
- Add 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar to 2 large egg whites
- Beat with a hand mixer until foamy
- Gradually add 2 tablespoons sugar while beating to stiff peaks
The resulting egg white foam has a smooth, glossy appearance just like Dream Whip. It's wonderful spooned over fruit, swirled into mousse or cheesecake, or used between cake layers.
Pasteurized egg whites in a carton can be used for food safety as well. For the creamiest results, fold in 1/4 cup heavy cream after whipping.
Coconut Cream
For a delicious dairy-free Dream Whip alternative, turn to rich coconut cream. When whipped up with sweetener, it makes a luscious topping with hints of tropical flavor.
Chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the solidified cream on top.
- Whip 1 cup coconut cream until fluffy, 1-2 minutes
- Add 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- Beat until stiff peaks form
Use this coconut whipped cream just as you would Dream Whip. It's particularly delicious paired with fruit or spooned over vegan pies and cheesecakes.
The coconut cream will deflate faster than dairy-based whipped toppings. For better stability, chill the can in the fridge for several hours before whipping.
DIY Dream Whip
If you want to come full circle, it's possible to make your own DIY Dream Whip at home! With a bit of powdered milk, sugar, and vanilla, you can re-create that iconic flavor.
Here's one recipe to try:
- Whisk together 1/2 cup powdered milk and 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Add 1 cup cold water and 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Using a hand mixer, beat on high speed for 5 minutes
This easy homemade powder whips up light, sweet, and fluffy - just like the real thing! Adjust to taste by adding more milk powder for thickness or sugar for sweetness.
You can also experiment with adding different extracts and emulsifiers to better mimic the store-bought flavor. But the beauty of this basic recipe is that you control the ingredients.
How to Choose the Best Dream Whip Substitute
With so many options for mimicking the whipped texture and sweet vanilla flavor of Dream Whip, how do you choose? Here are some tips:
- For an all-natural substitute, use freshly whipped heavy cream or cream cheese.
- For a convenient, ready-to-use topping, go with Cool Whip or coconut whipped cream.
- For a low-fat or dairy-free option, try powdered milk, egg whites, or coconut cream.
- For ultimate stability to withstand heat, add a pinch of gelatin or cream of tartar while whipping.
- For budget-friendly DIY whipped topping, use powdered milk or marshmallow fluff.
- For richness and indulgence, whip heavy cream with a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone.
Consider the flavors and textures that will best complement your recipe too. Light, neutral whipped toppings are ideal for fruit and desserts. Richer, creamier substitutions work well paired with chocolate or other decadence.
Test out a few options to discover your favorite for go-to Dream Whip replacements!
Storing Homemade Whipped Toppings
One advantage of Dream Whip powder is its long shelf life before mixing. Homemade whipped toppings unfortunately don't keep as well.
Here are some tips for storing whipped cream and other toppings:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent drying out.
- Consume within 2-3 days for best texture.
- Add a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese before whipping for longer stability.
- Re-whip before serving if liquid starts to separate.
- Avoid freezing, as ice crystals will form and ruin the smooth texture.
- Powdered milk whipped topping keeps slightly longer, 3-5 days.
- Coconut whipped cream deflates faster than dairy; plan to use within a day.
- Meringues can be frozen for 1 month if carefully wrapped in plastic.
With a bit of planning, you can whip up homemade toppings ahead of time for easy entertaining!
Simple Recipe Ideas Using Dream Whip Substitutes
Once you've made a fluffy batch of whipped topping, what are some ways to use it? Here are a few easy recipe ideas:
- Fruit Parfaits - Layer whipped topping with yogurt, granola, and fresh berries or other fruit in a glass.
- Banana Pudding - Fold whipped topping into instant vanilla pudding and sliced bananas.
- Strawberry Shortcakes - Split biscuits; fill with strawberries and dollops of freshly whipped cream.
- Chocolate Mousse - Gently fold whipped cream or whipped dark chocolate ganache until light and fluffy.
- Whoopie Pies - Pipe or spread whipped cream onto chocolate cakes; sandwich together.
- Tiramisu - Soak ladyfingers in coffee and Kahlua; sandwich in layers with mascarpone whipped cream.
- Trifle - Toss cut fruit with lemon juice and sugar; layer in a dish with whipped cream and crumbled cake.
- Whipped Hot Chocolate - Top steamy hot cocoa with a dollop of vanilla whipped cream.
Let your creativity run wild! Whipped toppings enhance everything from fruit and waffles to ice cream sundaes and milkshakes.
FAQs
Can I make my own Dream Whip powder?
Yes! Mix instant powdered milk, powdered sugar, and dream whip stabilizers like cream of tartar or gelatin. Then simply whip it with cold water or milk when ready to use. Adjust ingredients to match the sweetness and thickness you desire.
What is the best Dream Whip substitute for frosting cakes?
For frosting cakes or cupcakes, use freshly whipped heavy cream stabilized with a bit of cream cheese or gelatin. You can also use marshmallow creme whipped with milk. For decadent chocolate cakes, try whipping heavy cream into chocolate ganache.
Which Dream Whip substitute works for low carb or keto diets?
Your best low carb Dream Whip alternatives are unsweetened coconut cream or heavy cream whipped with zero-carb sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia. Stay away from powdered milk and marshmallow fluff, which are higher in carbs.
Can I turn heavy cream into a stable whipped topping?
Yes, heavy cream can be stabilized by whipping in a small amount of cream cheese, sour cream, or mascarpone. Chilling the bowl and tools helps too. Or dissolve unflavored gelatin in water first, let cool, then whip into the heavy cream.
What can I use if I don't have heavy whipping cream?
In a pinch, substitute half & half or another dairy cream containing at least 30% milkfat. You can also use shelf-stable liquid coffee creamers, or whip evaporated milk into soft peaks. The texture won't be as thick, but it will whip up.
Conclusion
Dream Whip powder may hold a nostalgic place in your baking repertoire. But its artificial stabilizers and high-fat ingredients aren't ideal for today's health-conscious tastes.