10 Best All-Purpose Creams in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian
Regardless of whether it's baking or cooking, all-purpose creams are undeniable kitchen staples. They are useful for any type of dish that calls for cream. All-purpose cream can handle everything from soups to pasta, viands, and desserts. No wonder it has become the standard cream to use.
To help you get only the best, in this article, we have compiled some recommendations to help you pick the best all-purpose cream to add to your pantry. We also have a buying guide on selecting an all-purpose cream, fact-checked and reviewed by registered nutritionist-dietitian Samantha Morales.
Quick List - Top All-Purpose Creams
Samantha began her career in clinical nutrition and weight management at a tertiary hospital in Manila, Philippines. Her practice allowed her to give nutrition counseling and plan modified diets for patients with medical conditions. Presently, she does private practice to focus on true holistic wellness - an approach that believes in aligning one's mind, body, and spiritual well-being.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
How to Choose an All-Purpose Cream - Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Check the milk fat content for creaminess.
- Consider the net weight and the packaging of the cream.
- Sweetened or unsweetened: choose based on the recipe you’re doing.
- Check the expiration date for safety.
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Check the Milk Fat Content to Gauge Its Creaminess
The higher the milk fat content of the cream, the creamier it is. It is because it is the fat content that will determine the dish's consistency. Thus, if you want a thick and creamy sauce, you'll be better off using an all-purpose cream with higher milk fat.
To check the milk fat content, you may check the packaging label. You can also double-check the nutritional table for more accurate measurements. A few brands offer a slight variation of all-purpose creams like cooking cream and thickened cream.
Consider the Net Weight and the Packaging of the Cream
The net weight of the product can sometimes influence how much you will need for your dish. It is necessary to get the right amount of cream to save money and prevent any leftovers. Why? Because milk and cream spoil easily, especially when left unsealed and out of the fridge.
The packaging also plays an essential role in the longevity of the cream. Standard all-purpose cream packages include cans and carton boxes or tetra packs. Cans are sturdy and will protect the cream from leaks. However, they are prone to rust and corrosion, which may lead to contamination.
Tetra boxes are cheaper to produce and do not contaminate the cream. The downside, however, is that they are not as sturdy as tin cans, so they are more prone to tearing that may cause leaks and spills. For a wiser decision, assess the one that suits your needs and storage capacity.
Sweetened or Unsweetened: Choose Based on the Recipe You’re Doing
It is no surprise that all-purpose creams have a sweetened version, considering that most Filipinos have a sweet tooth. Sweetened all-purpose creams can go well on desserts like no-bake icebox cakes or fruit salad dressing. It is also suitable for Filipino sweet-style spaghetti and can be used in place of sugar and unsweetened cream.
Meanwhile, we recommend regular, unsweetened all-purpose creams for savory dishes like creamy caldereta or chicken a la king. With its neutral taste, you can easily adjust the taste of your food. You can also use them for desserts, but remember to add sugar or condensed milk because they may come out as bland.
There are also a few brands with unique variants like cream with cheese. Not to be confused with cream cheese, this flavor works best for dishes or desserts that require both cream and cheese. It is also more budget-friendly since you get two products at a price of one.
Check the Expiration Date for Safety
As we've mentioned before, milk and cream can easily get spoiled in a short amount of time. For this reason, the expiration date of all-purpose cream is stricter than other products. So, we highly advise you to check the expiration date of the cream before clicking the add-to-cart button.
Online stores usually indicate them in the product details, but if they're not available, do not hesitate to ask the seller or store to check for you. Doing this can help you save money and prevent possible occurrences of food poisoning and an upset stomach.
10 Best All-Purpose Creams to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Milk Fat Content | Packaging | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Nestle All-Purpose Cream | | Versatile Cream for Delicious Cooking | Unsweetened | 25% | Carton | 250 mL | |
2 | Alaska Crema All-Purpose Cream | | Multi-Use Cream That Elevates Home Cooking | Unsweetened | 26% | Carton | 250 mL | |
3 | Magnolia All-Purpose Cream | | A Staple in Every Filipino Kitchen | Unsweetened | 23% | Carton | 250 mL | |
4 | Gran Cucina UHT Cooking Cream | | Enrich Flavors With This Vegetable-Based Cream | Unsweetened | unknown | Carton | 1000 mL | |
5 | Emborg Cooking Cream | | A Versatile, Reliable Kitchen Essential | Unsweetened | 20% | Carton | 1000 mL | |
6 | Angel Kremdensada All-Purpose Cream | | Simplify Filipino Dishes With This 2-in-1 Dairy Product | Sweetened | 15% | Can | 410 mL | |
7 | President Professionnel Cooking Cream | | Smooth and Versatile Culinary Cream | Unsweetened | 18% | Carton | 1000 mL | |
8 | Elle & Vire Excellence Cooking Cream | | Versatile French Cream For Richer Dishes | Unsweetened | 35% | Carton | 1000 mL | |
9 | Melody All Purpose Cream | | Creamy Versatility for All Your Culinary Needs | Unsweetened | 30% | Carton | 250 mL | |
10 | Anchor Cream Alternative | | Easy-to-Use Cream Alternative for Cooking and Baking | Unsweetened | 34% | Carton | 1000 mL | |
Versatile Cream for Delicious Cooking
- Smooth, velvety texture ideal for both sweet and savory dishes
- Easy to whip, perfect for cakes and mousses or for creamy sauces and soups
- Just-right consistency that adds richness and thickness
- Halal certified, made with quality ingredients for versatile use
Reviews mention:
Home cooks find the cream’s smooth texture and versatility in cooking indispensable. It easily whips and blends well in many dishes from desserts to savory meals. While its rich taste elevates recipes, some note keeping it refrigerated after opening to maintain its freshness. Consumers' overall consensus is that this cream is reliable and a staple in their kitchens for refining everyday meals.
| Type | Unsweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | 25% |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Net Weight | 250 mL |
Multi-Use Cream That Elevates Home Cooking
- Suitable for both chilled and room temperature use
- Enhances the flavor and texture of soups, salads, pasta, dips, and dressings
- Serves as a cooking and baking ingredient to turn recipes into gourmet meals
- Halal and trans-fat free, making it a healthier cream choice
Reviews mention:
Not only do reviewers find this cream rich in texture and creamy, they also rave its suitability for both everyday meals and special recipes. A lot of home cooks and bakers alike find versatility from this product, since it enhances flavors without overpowering them. More size options would be more convenient to buyers with different needs, but as it is, the cream's affordability and convenience are highly appreciated.
| Type | Unsweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | 26% |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Net Weight | 250 mL |
A Staple in Every Filipino Kitchen
- Made with high-quality ingredients for consistent flavor enhancement
- Provides a rich and creamy texture ideal for soups, desserts, and sauces
- Contains zero trans-fat and reduced cholesterol
- Convenient 250 mL pack size
Reviews mention:
With its smooth texture and ability to enrich flavors, cooks of all kinds appreciate the cream's versatility in different recipes. Reviewers approve its excellent mixability in both savory and sweet dishes, though they suggest it can be a thicker consistency for whipping purposes. All in all, the product is generally viewed to be a reliable and healthy cooking cream option in Filipino kitchens.
| Type | Unsweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | 23% |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Net Weight | 250 mL |
Gran CucinaUHT Cooking Cream
Enrich Flavors With This Vegetable-Based Cream
- Made from vegetable base as a dairy alternative
- Thick and creamy texture enhances sauces and soups
- Performs well at high cooking temperatures without curdling
- Gluten-free and palm oil free
Reviews mention:
The product is generally viewed to be creamy in consistency and is able to enhance the taste of dishes, like pasta and soups. Non-dairy buyers appreciate this as a good non-dairy alternative that holds up well during cooking. Some reviewers hint to potential buyers that it needs refrigeration after opening, noting they prefer timely use to maintain freshness. Overall, it is praised for being a versatile and reliable cooking cream for everyday culinary use.
| Type | Unsweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | unknown |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Net Weight | 1000 mL |
A Versatile, Reliable Kitchen Essential
- Made from fresh European milk for a rich, authentic flavor
- Contains 20% fat, providing a light yet creamy texture
- Heat-stable formulation prevents curdling or splitting during cooking
- Comes in a convenient 1 L carton, ideal for both home kitchens and professional use
Reviews mention:
Most shoppers consider this cream to be smooth in texture. Its ability to add creaminess to soups, pasta, and stews without curdling is often raved. Although frequent home cooks have suggested offering smaller sizes for easier storage, they still think that it is a reliable choice for everyday cooking.
| Type | Unsweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | 20% |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Net Weight | 1000 mL |
Simplify Filipino Dishes With This 2-in-1 Dairy Product
- Combines cream and condensed milk in one product
- Large 410 mL can ideal for making desserts
- Versatile ingredient suitable for various sweet dishes
- Offers a rich and delicious flavor
Reviews mention:
Dessert preparation is convenient, thanks to this product. Its versatility in cooking and the innovation of combining two ingredients into one for simplicity are identified as the standout factors. As much as a lot of buyers find its large can size as a winner, they also suggest improving availability due to occasional out-of-stock status on popular platforms.
| Type | Sweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | 15% |
| Packaging | Can |
| Net Weight | 410 mL |
President ProfessionnelCooking Cream
Smooth and Versatile Culinary Cream
- Contains 18% milk fat
- Quick thickening and high yield on reduction
- Stable under high temperatures
- Smooth, homogeneous texture that blends well
Reviews mention:
Many buyers mention how their sauces become smooth and creamy every time, thanks to this cream and its consistency. Its ease of use is viewed positively, noting the cream never overpowers flavors, yet it gets their desired, luxurious texture. Its pricing and availability can vary locally, but nonetheless it is a staple product in both home and professional kitchens.
| Type | Unsweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | 18% |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Net Weight | 1000 mL |
Elle & VireExcellence Cooking Cream
Versatile French Cream For Richer Dishes
- High-quality French cream ideal for sauces and cream-based recipes
- Smooth, velvety texture for easy blending
- Convenient 1-liter size suitable for both home cooking and professional kitchens
- Versatile use in a variety of dishes
Reviews mention:
Adding depth to various recipes is simple, with this cream's rich and smooth consistency that garners rave reviews from many users. The product is regarded to be versatile especially for sauces, though some prefer smaller packaging sizes for easier storage and use. Generally, it is valued for its authentic cream quality and taste in Filipino kitchens.
| Type | Unsweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | 35% |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Net Weight | 1000 mL |
Creamy Versatility for All Your Culinary Needs
- Smooth, creamy texture ideal for spreading, dipping, and blending
- Suitable for savory dishes like pastas, soups, stews, and sauces
- Perfect for desserts, snacks, beverages, and various recipes
- High-quality ingredient blend ensuring consistent taste
Reviews mention:
Regular home cooks find it easy to use in both cooking and baking, praising its creaminess. Despite its quality and versatility being raved, some reviews take note occasional issues with product consistency or flavor. Customer service responsiveness is another positive for buyers, even when reporting order-related concerns.
| Type | Unsweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | 30% |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Net Weight | 250 mL |
Easy-to-Use Cream Alternative for Cooking and Baking
- Multi-purpose formula ideal for whipping, cooking, and pouring
- Smooth texture ensures consistent results in recipes
- Convenient 1 L size for frequent use in the kitchen
- Anchor brand quality trusted for everyday cooking needs
Reviews mention:
For both desserts and savory recipes, cookers regard this as a reliable cream alternative choice with its excellent whipping and dish blending ability. Not only is it creamy in consistency, but it is also appreciated for being value for money. Reviewers advise that it performs best when chilled before use, for optimal whipping results.
| Type | Unsweetened |
|---|---|
| Milk Fat Content | 34% |
| Packaging | Carton |
| Net Weight | 1000 mL |
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
What’s the Difference Between Heavy Cream and All-Purpose Cream?
Heavy cream is much denser than all-purpose cream. It has at least 36% milkfat, making it ideal for thicker cream-based dishes like chowders and soups. You can also use it to make whipped cream, as it can reach stiff peaks easily with its denser properties.
Meanwhile, all-purpose cream is the jack-of-all-trades. You can pretty much use it in any dish that requires cream. It has only 30% or less milk fat, so it is pretty light.
Can You Make Whipping Cream Using All-Purpose Cream?
It is possible, but it'll require some effort on your end. You'll need to whip the all-purpose cream at high speed for stiffer peaks. It would also be best to chill the all-purpose cream thoroughly before whipping to achieve a heavy consistency.
Can You Use Milk Instead of All-Purpose Cream?
It's possible, but not in all recipes. If the all-purpose cream a recipe calls for is unavailable, you may choose to use combined milk and cornstarch, greek yogurt and milk, or coconut cream. You may also opt for a combination of silken tofu and soy milk if you want a vegan substitute.
More Staple Ingredients Worth Stocking in Your Kitchen
Kitchens must contain the essential and most commonly-used ingredients. It all boils down to your meal plan and your household's preferred dishes. We have some article reviews about staple ingredients that you can stock up in your kitchen cabinets. Click the links below and consider ordering some of these products.
Author: Roel Pillas Malubay
Re-editor: R. Victoriano
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 All-Purpose Creams
No. 1: Nestle｜All-Purpose Cream
No. 2: Alaska｜Crema All-Purpose Cream
No. 3: Magnolia｜All-Purpose Cream
No. 4: Gran Cucina｜UHT Cooking Cream
No. 5: Emborg｜Cooking Cream
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.