Super source
Energy
359 kcal · 18% DV target
A thick, velvety cultured cream with a distinctive tangy finish, crème fraîche is a versatile culinary staple that provides a dense source of energy and fat-soluble nutrients.
Crème fraîche is a high-fat cultured dairy product that contributes significant saturated fat to the diet, which is well-established to increase LDL-cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) relative to unsaturated fats .2
While institutional guidelines often recommend replacing high-fat dairy with low-fat alternatives to manage cardiovascular risk, large-scale systematic reviews have found that total dairy intake—including full-fat versions—is not consistently linked to increased heart disease risk .2312
In culinary and dietary quality indices, crème fraîche is categorized as a more nutrient-dense choice than butter but is considered less favorable than reduced-fat creams or plant-based alternatives like soy or oat cream .18
One large prospective study of over 33,000 women found that specific intake of crème fraîche and other dairy products showed no direct association with an increased risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) .3
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
359 kcal · 18% DV target
37.8 g · 48% DV target
24.4 g · 122% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
1.18 g · 118% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
0.26 g · Top 13% of dairy & cheese
0.72 g · Top 20% of dairy & cheese
Seasonality has not been estimated for this ingredient yet.
Keep in original container and ensure lid is tightly sealed.
Best consumed within a few days of opening for optimal flavor.
As a concentrated dairy product, it has a higher carbon footprint than milk but lower than butter or hard cheese.
Unlike standard sour cream, crème fraîche contains enough fat to prevent it from curdling when boiled, making it ideal for high-heat pan sauces.