Question #1: Are there any differences between milk and half and half?
There is a huge difference between milk and 1/2 and 1/2.

The butterfat content in half & half is dramatically higher than that in milk. In half & half, it is 12.5%. In milk it is typically between 0-4% (0 being skim milk).

Watch the video below to find out more:

This makes a huge difference to taste and texture. Half & half is much thicker than milk and coats your tongue. It “tastes” thick and fatty. Milk does not coat nearly as well and tastes cleaner.

You could drink a glass of milk, but you may very well “feel” ill if you drank a glass of cream.

Question #2: Can half and half be used the same as milk?
However, on many occasions half & half is called for!

For example, to make an “Angel Kiss“, you put creme de cacao liqueur in your drinking vessel…usually 1 shot’s worth, and you carefully pour the 1/2 and 1/2 creme on the side of the glass. It will float on top of the creme de cacao and make a beautiful, clean layer. It is delicious!

Half & half is more delicious in creme sauces, say for Alfredo, and goes better in coffee, so I am told.

Basically, for something that tastes richer, like desserts, you’ll want to use creme, provided you are not on a diet.

My Recommendation:
If you are on a diet, use milk as often as possible in replacement of 1/2 and 1/2.

If you are in a pinch, and don’t have 1/2 and 1/2 or milk, use them in replacement of each other.

* Tip: If you are baking, do not substitute, as this can make a huge and destructive difference to your baked goods.

***

I hope this Beverage post on Cooking With Kimberly helpful. Until next time,

Eat Deliciously!