Milk vs Coconut Milk
Density, calorie, and weight differences — and whether they can substitute for each other.
Substitution Verdict
Density difference: 6%. Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe.
Calories per 100 g: Milk 61 kcal vs Coconut Milk 230 kcal. Difference: 169 kcal — Coconut Milk is higher.
Weight Conversions (per Spoon and Cup)
| Measure | Milk | Coconut Milk |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | 15.5 g | 14.5 g |
| 1 teaspoon | 5.2 g | 4.8 g |
| 1 cup | 245 g | 232 g |
| Density | 1.03 g/ml | 0.97 g/ml |
Measuring Tips
Volume measurements (cups, ml) are most accurate for liquids. Read meniscus at eye level.
Stir well before measuring — coconut oil tends to separate at the top. Thick coconut milk (first press) for rendang/curry; thin (second press) for soups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Milk be substituted for Coconut Milk?▾
Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe. Density of Milk is 1.03 g/ml; Coconut Milk is 0.97 g/ml — a 6% difference. But flavor, moisture, and chemistry can still differ — verify suitability for the specific recipe.
How many grams in 1 tablespoon of Milk vs Coconut Milk?▾
1 tbsp Milk ≈ 15.5 g. 1 tbsp Coconut Milk ≈ 14.5 g. By weight: 1 tbsp Milk = 1.07 tbsp Coconut Milk.
Which has more calories, Milk or Coconut Milk?▾
Per 100 g: Milk 61 kcal, Coconut Milk 230 kcal. Coconut Milk has 169 more kcal.
What is Milk typically used for?▾
Milk is commonly used in: drinking, baking, sauces, coffee. Source: usda-fdc.
What is Coconut Milk typically used for?▾
Coconut Milk is commonly used in: Thai curry, rendang, Indian dishes, ice cream. Source: usda-fdc.