How to Make Coconut Milk From Coconut Cream

Co-authored by Abyssinia Campbell and Madeleine Flamiano

Last Updated: February 23, 2023

In the mood for coconut milk but only have coconut cream? With some ingenuity and simple ingredients, you can whip up the drink you want in no time. Take out a bowl, put on a smile, and get ready to make some fresh DIY coconut milk!

1

Scoop 3 tbsp (42.52 g) of coconut cream into a bowl.

Start off with your fave brand of coconut cream. For best results, choose a can of organic, unsweetened coconut cream. Use a can opener to take the lid off the coconut cream. Scoop out 3 heaping tablespoons (42.52 grams) of coconut cream. Drop the coconut cream into a bowl.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- If you plan to drink your coconut milk right after you make it, then chill your coconut cream in the fridge for 1 day before you whip up your DIY beverage.

2

Add 1 tbsp (14.77 mL) of water into the bowl.

Splash in 1 tablespoon (14.77 mL) to create a milk-like consistency. Once you’ve put 3 heaping tablespoons (42.52 grams) of coconut cream into the bowl, measure out 1 tablespoon (14.77 mL) of water. Diluting the coconut cream creates 1 serving⁠—or ¼ cup (59.15 mL)—of coconut milk.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Use the same ratio to create larger quantities of coconut milk. For example, for 4 servings, or 1 cup (240 mL), of coconut milk, mix 4 tablespoons (59.15 mL) of water with 12 tablespoons (170.1 grams) of coconut cream.

3

Whisk the coconut cream and water.

Use a metal whisk to stir your 2 ingredients into coconut milk. Grab a metal whisk so you can mix up the coconut cream and the water. Use quick, circular motions to “beat,” or blend, the coconut cream and water into coconut milk with a smooth consistency.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- Alternatively, use a hand mixer to blend the coconut cream and the water.

4

Transfer your coconut milk to a container.

For cold and refreshing coconut milk, put it in a container you can chill. Take out a container, like a mason jar. Pour your fresh coconut milk into the container. Put a lid on the container and tighten it, then put your coconut milk in the fridge so it's nicely chilled.^{[4]
X
Research source}

5

Refrigerate your DIY coconut milk for 1-3 days.

Enjoy your tasty beverage while it's fresh. If you'd like crisp and cool coconut milk ASAP, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to 2 hours or pour it over ice. If you'd like to use it later, consume it within 3 days. Have fun with all the possibilities for your homemade coconut milk—for example, make an Indian curry or whip up a Thai iced coffee!^{[5]
X
Research source}

Expert Q&A

Question

How much water do you add to make coconut milk from coconut cream?

wikiHow
The most trusted how-to site on the internet.
Our goal at wikiHow is to deliver trustworthy articles that engage our readers and meet their informational and emotional needs. For 15 years, we've committed to our step-by-step teaching model, and we continue to refine our content to create the best how-to experience on the Internet. We’ve helped millions of people solve problems, learn new skills, and feel supported in the ordinary and complex moments of life.

wikiHow

The most trusted how-to site on the internet.

Expert Answer

Use a ratio of 1 tablespoon (14.77 mL) of water to 3 tablespoons (42.52 grams) of coconut cream for 1 serving of coconut milk. If you'd like to make more servings of coconut milk, stick to this ratio as a guide! For example, for 4 servings of coconut milk, mix 4 tablespoons (59.15 mL) of water with 12 tablespoons (170.1 grams) of coconut cream.
Question

Do I discard the fat in the coconut cream?

wikiHow
The most trusted how-to site on the internet.
Our goal at wikiHow is to deliver trustworthy articles that engage our readers and meet their informational and emotional needs. For 15 years, we've committed to our step-by-step teaching model, and we continue to refine our content to create the best how-to experience on the Internet. We’ve helped millions of people solve problems, learn new skills, and feel supported in the ordinary and complex moments of life.

wikiHow

The most trusted how-to site on the internet.

Expert Answer

You can actually keep all the fat from the coconut cream—it'll add a rich and nutty flavor to your coconut milk! As long as you whisk the water and coconut cream really thoroughly, then you'll create coconut milk with just the right consistency.
Question

Can you substitute coconut milk for coconut cream?

wikiHow
The most trusted how-to site on the internet.
Our goal at wikiHow is to deliver trustworthy articles that engage our readers and meet their informational and emotional needs. For 15 years, we've committed to our step-by-step teaching model, and we continue to refine our content to create the best how-to experience on the Internet. We’ve helped millions of people solve problems, learn new skills, and feel supported in the ordinary and complex moments of life.

wikiHow

The most trusted how-to site on the internet.

Expert Answer

Yes—this is absolutely an option! As long as you have full-fat coconut milk, then you'll be able to scoop the coconut cream off from the top of the coconut milk and add it to your favorite dishes.