Do you want to make a tiramisu or a creamy recipe but don’t have mascarpone on hand? Discover our best tested and approved alternatives to replace this Italian cheese, whether for practical, dietary, or economic reasons.
Table of Contents:
Traditional dairy alternatives
Whipped fromage blanc
- Proportion: 250g of fromage blanc for 200g of mascarpone
- Note: Drain the fromage blanc well and whip it to obtain a firmer texture
- Advantages:
- Lower in calories
- Easily available
- More economical
Thick crème fraîche
- Proportion: 200g + 50g of fresh cheese for 200g of mascarpone
- Tip: Choose a cream with at least 30% fat content
- Ideal for:
- Sauces
- Savoury dishes
- Creamy cakes
Clever combinations
Cream cheese + whipped cream combination
- Recipe: 150g of cream cheese + 50ml of whipped cream for 200g of mascarpone
- Advantages:
- Texture very close to mascarpone
- Perfect for cheesecakes
- Holds well when baked
Fromage blanc + whipped cream duo
- Mix: 125g of fromage blanc + 75ml of whipped cream
- Technique:
- Drain the fromage blanc for 1 hour
- Whip the cream until firm
- Gently mix
Plant-based alternatives
Homemade cashew cream
- Preparation:
- Soak 200g of cashew nuts for 4 hours
- Blend with 50ml of water
- Add lemon juice for acidity
- Perfect for:
- Vegan tiramisu versions
- Creamy sauces
- Dairy-free desserts
Blended silken tofu
- Use: 200g of firm silken tofu + 2 tbsp of coconut oil
- Tip: Blend with a little vanilla for desserts
- Advantages:
- Dairy-free
- High in protein
- Low in calories
Substitution chart for 200g of mascarpone
| Alternative | Quantity | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Whipped fromage blanc | 250g | Cold desserts |
| Thick crème fraîche | 200g + 50g fresh cheese | Sauces and hot dishes |
| Cream cheese + cream | 150g + 50ml | Cheesecakes |
| Fromage blanc + cream | 125g + 75ml | Tiramisus |
| Cashew cream | 200g cashews + 50ml water | Vegan versions |
| Silken tofu | 200g + 2 tbsp coconut oil | Vegan desserts |
Tips for successful substitutions
For tiramisu-style desserts
- Favour mixtures with whipped cream
- Check consistency before use
- Adjust sugar depending on the chosen alternative
For savoury dishes
- Opt for versions based on crème fraîche
- Season more generously
- Check consistency when heated
Tested recipes with alternatives
Tiramisu without mascarpone
Ingredients:
- 250g drained fromage blanc
- 75ml whipped cream
- 3 eggs
- 50g sugar
- Coffee and classic biscuits
Creamy mushroom sauce
Ingredients:
- 200g thick crème fraîche
- 50g fresh cheese
- Mushrooms and seasonings
- Salt, pepper
Nutritional comparison
| Alternative | Calories/100g | Fat content |
|---|---|---|
| Mascarpone | 400 kcal | 40g |
| Fromage blanc | 100 kcal | 3g |
| Crème fraîche | 300 kcal | 30g |
| Cashew cream | 600 kcal | 45g |
| Silken tofu | 75 kcal | 4g |
Conclusion
Replacing mascarpone is entirely possible by adapting your choice of alternative to your recipe. Whether you are looking for a lighter, plant-based, or simply a practical substitute, there is definitely an option that will work for you. Feel free to experiment with these different alternatives to find your favourite substitute.
Another article that might interest you: What to use instead of butter in a cake
