Nondairy topping is used in place of real whipped cream in or on desserts. Whipped cream is a dairy food, but nondairy topping contains no dairy products at all. Nondairy topping and whipped cream are very similar in appearance and somewhat similar in taste. Most people who enjoy whipped cream also like nondairy topping although the dairy product is often richer, while the nondairy product is usually sweeter.

Nondairy topping is typically made from oils such as partially hydrogenated coconut and palm oil and from sweeteners such as corn syrup. Water and preservatives are also usually added. The earliest nondairy toppings were made from soy, but these were found to have a shorter shelf life than products made with oil. The partially hydrogenated oils used in many nondairy topping products are associated with an increase in bad cholesterol due to trans fats, so these toppings are not suitable for those watching their cholesterol levels.

Refrigerated tubs, aerosol cans and packages of powder that you add milk to are the many different forms in which nondairy topping is available in today. Nondairy toppings can add the finishing touch to pies, puddings and banana splits. Some people like to use nondairy toppings as cake fillings and frostings as well. Nondairy topping can be flavored with vanilla, chocolate, coconut or many other possibilities.

A dollop of nondairy topping can liven up a fruit salad or gelatin. Most cafeterias use nondairy topping on their gelatin desserts. You can also layer the topping with alternate layers of fruit and/or gelatin to make a parfait. Some people like nondairy toppings on waffles with fruit preserves or syrups. Hot chocolate with some nondairy topping or real whipped cream added to it is another favorite for many.

You can use nondairy topping wherever you would use real whipped cream. A pastry bag can be used to pipe fancy-looking finishes on food or beverages for an elegant touch. While many may prefer the richness of genuine whipped cream, nondairy topping can be more affordable and provide an option for those who don't eat dairy due to food intolerances or personal reasons. Always read labels on nondairy topping products, however, as some may contain the milk protein, casein, which is typically listed as sodium caseinate.