Last Updated on October 5, 2022 by Lauren Beck
Creme fraiche is not the same as sour cream. Although both are dairy products made from milk and cream, creme fraiche is made with a different type of milk (whole milk vs. skim milk) and has a higher fat content than sour cream. Creme fraiche also has a different flavor than sour cream, which some people describe as being less tangy and more rich and creamy.
What is the difference between Creme Fraiche and Sour Cream?
The main difference between creme fraiche and sour cream is that creme fraiche is made from fermented cream while sour cream is made from unpasteurized milk that has been soured with bacteria. As a result, creme fraiche is thicken and has a slightly tangy flavor while sour cream is thinner and has a more sharp flavor.
In terms of texture, creme fraiche is smooth and creamy while sour cream is thick and rich. In terms of taste, creme fraiche is slightly tangy with a hint of sweetness while sour cream is tart and acidic.
Creme fraiche can be used in place of sour cream in many recipes. It can be used to top desserts, fruits, or even savory dishes. It can also be used in baking or as a base for sauces. On the other hand, sour cream is best used in dips, sauces, and dressings. It can also be used to top tacos, enchiladas, or chili.
Can I Use Sour Cream as a Creme Fraiche Substitute?
Yes, you can use sour cream as a creme fraiche substitute. Both have a thick, creamy texture and tangy flavor. The main difference is that creme fraiche has a lower fat content than sour cream.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, choose creme fraiche. If you want a richer flavor, go for sour cream. Either way, you can’t go wrong!
What is Creme Fraiche?
Creme fraiche (pronounced krehm FRESH) is a French term that means “fresh cream” [1]. Creme fraiche is a thick, creamy dairy product. It has a lower fat content. Creme fraiche is made by adding bacterial culture to heavy cream. This fermentation process gives the cream a tangy flavor and thick texture.
Creme fraiche is a versatile ingredient. It can be used in savory or sweet dishes. It’s often used as a topping for fruit, pudding, or ice cream. You can also use it in recipes that call for sour cream.
What is Sour Cream?
Sour cream is a thick, tangy, and slightly acidic dairy product that is made by adding bacteria to cream. The bacteria causes the cream to thicken and sour, giving it its signature flavor. Sour cream is often used as a condiment or topping on savory dishes, but can also be used in sweet recipes.
How are Creme Fraiche and Sour Cream made?
Creme fraiche and sour cream are both made by adding bacteria to cream, but the type of bacteria used is different. Creme fraiche is made with a bacterium called Lactococcus lactis, while sour cream is made with a bacterium called Streptococcus thermophilus.
How to make your own Creme Fraiche and Sour Cream?

It is very easy to make your own creme fraiche and sour cream at home. All you need is cream and bacteria. You can find bacteria cultures online or at your local health food store.
To make creme fraiche, mix 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of bacterial culture in a clean bowl. Stir well and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours, until it thickens.
To make sour cream, mix 1 cup of heavy cream with 1 tablespoon of bacterial culture and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a clean bowl. Stir well and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours, until it thickens. Refrigerate both mixtures until ready to use. Creme fraiche will keep for up to 2 weeks, while sour cream will only last for about a week.
Do sour cream and creme fraiche taste the same?
No, creme fraiche is slightly tangier and richer than sour cream. It is also thicker and has a higher fat content. It can be used in place of sour cream in recipes, but the texture will be different.
Can I use Greek yoghurt instead of creme fraiche?
Yes, you can use Greek yoghurt instead of creme fraiche. Greek yoghurt is a thick and creamy yogurt that has a similar consistency to creme fraiche. It is also slightly tangy and acidic, which gives it a similar flavor to creme fraiche. Greek yoghurt can be used in all the same ways that you would use creme fraiche, such as in dips, sauces, and baking recipes.
What is a good substitute for sour cream in beef stroganoff?
If you’re looking for a sour cream substitute in beef stroganoff, you could try using Greek yoghurt, crème fraîche, or even mayonnaise. Greek yoghurt and crème fraîche are both thick and creamy, which makes them good substitutes for sour cream. Mayonnaise is also a good option, as it will add a similar creaminess to the dish without being too sour. Whichever substitute you choose, make sure to add it in at the end so that it doesn’t curdle.
Is buttermilk a good substitute for sour cream?
Buttermilk can be a good substitute for sour cream, although it will make the dish slightly less rich and creamy. Buttermilk is also tangy and acidic, so it will add a similar flavor to sour cream. If you’re looking for a substitute that is closer in consistency to sour cream, you could try using crème fraîche or Greek yoghurt.
How long does creme fraiche last in the fridge?
Creme fraiche will last in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. It is a fermented dairy product, so it will continue to sour and thicken as it ages. If you want to use it after 2 weeks, you can add it to cooked dishes or bake with it, as the heat will help to kill any bacteria.
Can I use buttermilk instead of creme fraiche?
Yes, you can use buttermilk instead of creme fraiche. Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product that has a similar tangy flavor to creme fraiche. It is also thinner in consistency, so it may not be suitable for all recipes. If you’re using buttermilk as a substitute for creme fraiche, you may need to add a thickener such as cornstarch or flour to your recipe.
Reference:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cr%C3%A8me_fra%C3%AEche
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