Is yoghurt a good substitute for sour cream?

Yes, yoghurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream in most recipes. They have a similar tangy flavour and creamy texture. Greek yoghurt is the closest match in terms of thickness. Use a direct 1:1 substitution by weight or volume.

Which yoghurt is best for replacing sour cream?

Greek yoghurt is the best substitute because its thick, strained texture is very close to sour cream. Full-fat natural yoghurt also works well but is slightly thinner. Low-fat yoghurt can be used but the result will be less rich.

Can I use sour cream instead of yoghurt in baking?

Absolutely. Sour cream works as a 1:1 substitute for yoghurt in baking. It adds moisture and a slight tang just like yoghurt. Sour cream is slightly richer (about 20% fat vs 10% for yoghurt), which can make baked goods marginally more tender.

Will the substitution affect the taste?

There is a subtle taste difference. Yoghurt tends to be tangier and lighter, while sour cream is milder and richer. In baked goods and cooked dishes, the difference is usually unnoticeable. In cold applications like dips, the difference is more apparent but still subtle.

Can I use Greek yoghurt instead of sour cream in baking?

Yes, Greek yoghurt is the best substitute for sour cream in most baking recipes. It has a similar thickness and tang. Full-fat Greek yoghurt is closest in fat content to sour cream. The result may be very slightly tangier but the texture will be nearly identical.

BakeCalcs

Yoghurt to Sour Cream Converter

Convert between yoghurt and sour cream quantities in recipes with guidance on best substitution.

Substitution Direction

Yoghurt Type

Sour Cream in Recipe

How We Calculate This

Yoghurt and sour cream are both cultured dairy products with similar acidity and moisture content, making them interchangeable in most recipes at a direct 1:1 ratio.

The Substitution

Ratio: 1:1 by weight or volume
Best yoghurt for sour cream: Greek yoghurt (thickest match)
Sour cream replacing yoghurt: Works perfectly in baking and cooking

Tips

Greek yoghurt is thicker, so it is the best sour cream substitute
If using low-fat yoghurt, consider adding a tablespoon of cream per 100g for richness
Both can curdle in very hot sauces — stir in gently off the heat

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are based on standard ratios and conversions. Results may vary with specific ingredients, equipment, and conditions.