Stock up on coconut milk cans to create creamy concoctions.

Coconut milk is an ingredient many people buy for one recipe but end up wasting the rest.

The remainder is likely ignored in the fridge until it expires and is tossed.

unlabeled metal coconut milk can on a palm tree leaf with 2 brown coconuts in the background

Photo: happy_lark/Getty Images

What Is Coconut Milk?

Coconut milk isnaturally dairy-free, making it an excellent substitute for regular milk in multiple recipes.

Canned coconut milk should have only one ingredient: coconut.

Two Glasses Filled With Frozen Tropical Creamsicle Smoothie

Greg DuPree

Tip: Don’t bother buying light coconut milk.

Coconut Cream vs. Let freeze, and pop the cubes out when you want to blend up a frozen concoction.

A simple recipe is coconut milk, rum, vanilla extract, and a touch of sugar.

Mango Chicken Curry Served with White Rice in a White Bowl

Caitlin Bensel

Shake or blend and enjoy a tropical-feeling happy hour, even if you’re sitting in your living room.

Its natural fat content tames spices of all levels, turning down the heat while retaining flavor.

Paired with seafood, it’s a match made in heaven.

Three Small Bowls Full of Coconut Rice Pudding Topped With Fruit and Almonds, Next to Three Metal Spoons

Daniel Agee

Need something tasty for breakfast?

Try using coconut milk in your overnight oats or rice pudding for a refreshing take on the breakfast staple.

Add a few pinches of salt to balance out the mild sweetness of the coconut.

Coconut Pound Cake on a White Serving Plate With a Slice Cut and Served on an Individual Plate, Surrounded by Three Metal Forks

Kelsey Hansen

But pay attention to the pop in of dairy you’re subbing it for.

No problem: Add a little water to your full-fat coconut milk for a thinner consistency.

However, there aren’t many baked goods that would clash with coconut.

Two pink saucers on a pink surface with clear cups full of chai, with metal spoons and cinnamon sticks on saucers

Crystal Hughes

Chocolate, fruit, caramelwhat doesn’t pair with coconut?

Hot Beverages

This coconut milk use is relatively self-explanatory.

It’s a great way to keep morning drinks interesting.

Flat lay of coconut hair and skincare products

Getty Images

For an evening beverage, try a steaming mug of golden milk.

Slightly spicy and sweet, it’s the perfect way to wind down at the end of the day.

Coconut milk is a perfect base for ahair maskto keep strands soft and shiny; it also smells delicious.

Add in a few drops of essential oils.

Coconuts have antibacterial properties that also make them great for skincare, clearing pores whilehydrating the skin.