Whipped Cream Recipes

About Whipped Cream

Whipped cream is a favorite topping for many desserts, including sundaes, puddings, custards, cakes, pies, hot chocolate, and even coffees. But what exactly is this light and fluffy topping?

Whipped cream is heavy cream that has been agitated to incorporate air bubbles, making a suspension of fat and protein particles. While there are prepackaged whipped topping varieties available – frequently in pressurized cans or frozen tubs -- they are not composed of the same types of diary products and many chefs feel they have an artificial, contrived flavor that cannot rival the light, fluffy texture of true whipped cream.

When cream is whipped, it doubles in volume with a smooth, even texture. While it may seem easy to prepare, there are actually tricks to creating proper whipped cream for different dessert recipes.

Whipped Cream Tips

To create the best topping, cream must be whipped when very cold. Refrigerate the mixing bowl and beaters prior to whipping, and consider filling a larger bowl with ice to serve as a base to keep the mixing bowl cold while whipping, particularly on hot days. Use heavy cream with a 30-40 percent butterfat content for best results; lighter creams will not hold their structure easily. Take care not to overwhip the cream – it will become butter. For a sweeter result, add powdered sugar or liquid sweetener to the cream while whipping, but avoid granulated sugar which could give the cream a grainy texture.

Whipped cream easily collapses, so it is best to prepare just prior to use. To help it keep the proper shape and texture, it is possible to stabilize the mixture with unflavored gelatin, a few drops of lemon juice, or a bit of powdered sugar.

Flavored whipped creams are popular toppings for many different desserts. To create a flavored cream, add flavoring that will compliment the dessert as you finish whipping (take care not to overwhip). Popular flavors to add include:

• Cocoa powder
• Instant coffee crystals
• Cinnamon
• Vanilla or fruit-flavored extracts
• Citrus zest
• Liqueurs

From simple treats to sophisticated masterpieces, whipped cream is a popular topping for dozens of desserts and is easy for any aspiring chef to make.