Whipped cream is a heavy liquid cream that has been whipped with a whisk or mixer until light and fluffy. It keeps its shape or has formed a hard colloid due to the expansion of dissolved gas.

It’s frequently sweetened, usually with white sugar, and occasionally flavored with vanilla. Vanilla whipped cream is the most famous and most commonly used one. It is the favorite dessert of many people, and many other flavor whipping cream recipes are mentioned below.

1. Nutrients in Whipping Cream 

Whipping cream has a very high-fat content and some vitamins and is not advisable to eat daily. But it acts as a great dessert and is loved by many, so eating it occasionally won’t harm. One-half cup of whipped cream contains: 

• 400g of Calories
•  3g of Protein
• 43 g of Fat content
• 3g of Carbs
• 35% of Vitamin A
• 10% of Vitamin D
• 7% of Vitamin E
• 7% of Calcium
•  4% of Choline
•  7% of Phosphorus
•  3% of Vitamin K

Decoding Whipped Cream Choices: Navigating Nutritional Goals for Ultimate Satisfaction

Kelly D’Amico, a food scientist who runs a sustainable food blog called Made to Sustain, shares her thoughts on the nutritional content of whipped cream:

“It ultimately depends on your nutritional goals. If you’re looking for an indulgent treat, full fat [is going to] give you the most satisfaction.

If you’re cutting back on calories but still really want to go for the whipped cream, a lite version might do the trick for you or give you the satisfaction [that] you were looking for.

If [you’re someone who] can’t eat sugar, then a sugar-free one should also help satisfy your craving. 

The high-fat content will have a better mouthfeel and a cleaner taste. The texture will be more indulgent, and [it] should melt in your mouth.

A low-fat or lite version will have to add [in] stabilizers and texturizers to help compensate for the full-fat texture and flavor, which might lead to an aftertaste. 

A high-fat whipped cream can ultimately be part of a balanced diet if enjoyed in moderation – meaning at the recommended serving size on an infrequent basis.

High fats and high sugar in combination are not the best for us and are key contributors to common diseases. But little treats every once in a while make life more enjoyable.

My philosophy is if you’re going to eat it, you might as well enjoy the good stuff!”

1.1 Ingredients Needed

• Two cups of heavy whipping cream, which is cold (refrigerated)
• ¼ cup of powdered or granulated sugar. Regular sugar can also be used, but it is harder to mix. More can be added according to your taste. The more granulated sugar, the sweeter the whipped cream.
• One teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. This step is optional. Vanilla extract only adds flavor and smell to the final product.

1.1.1 Optional Add-Ons:

Apart from vanilla extract, many other toppings or flavoring items could be added over whipped cream to improve its flavor and aesthetic.

• Flavor extracts like coffee, lemon, almond, peppermint can be used
• Citrus zest
• Alcohol/liqueurs such as rum, Kahlua, and Grand Marnier can also be used
• Textured add-ins such as graham cracker crumbs, crushed Oreos, crushed chocolates, crushed peppermint candies, or choco chips can be used.
• Fruits can also be added to whipped cream.
• Icing sugar can also be added on top of it.

 1.1.2 Tools Required

• A big glass/ metal chilled bowl to mix the contents in.
• Mix the contents with an electric or stand mixer with a whisk attachment. A hand mixer would consume a lot more time than an electric mixer and hence is usually not advisable.

Consider Mindset and Eating Habits

My advice when it comes to whipping cream is no different from any other indulgence.

Of course, the context of an indulgence, including how often you are indulging and what else you are eating throughout the day or week, are important considerations (and something a dietitian can help you evaluate).

However, your mindset and the reason why you are indulging are even more important. Are you choosing to indulge because it looks delicious and you are seeking to enjoy your food? Or are you looking to numb your feelings or reward yourself?

If you are eating for reasons other than hunger (or even enjoyment), you are far more likely to eat more than your body needs or is comfortable with. Mindful eating can help to fill that gap and increase enjoyment while avoiding some of the emotional eating traps that are so easy to fall into.

Samantha Holmgren, Dietitian & Wellness Coach, Anti-Inflammatory Path to Wellness

1.2 Homemade Whipping Cream Recipe

Learn how to make homemade whipped cream with only three ingredients. It is the perfect replacement for the grocery store-bought whipped cream and other store-bought stuff full of preservatives and comparatively unhealthy.

Make your own whipped cream using only cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla essence, which will be done in a few minutes. The steps of a rich, fluffy, tasty, and perfect whipping cream recipe follow.

1.2.1 Steps To Be Taken Before Making The Whipped Cream

• Keep the cream in the coldest part of the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
• Before beating the cream, place the beaters and mixing bowl, or the wire whisk, in the freezer for at least 15 minutes until they are freezing.
• Make sure to use a large mixing bowl to hold the whipped cream, as once it’s done, the volume of the cream will double. It’s also a good idea to choose a thin, cold bowl with deep edges as it would prevent spilling.

1.2.2 Whipping Cream Recipe – Steps For The Preparation

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, pour 2 cups heavy whipping cream and beat with a mixer on low speed for 20 to 30 seconds or until bubbles appear.
2. The cream should be thick and leave a faint trail, so increase the speed to medium.
3. Increase the mixer’s speed to beat until the whipping cream thickens and puffs up. Just before it reaches the soft peak stage, add two tablespoons of granulated sugar and any flavoring like vanilla extract to the edge of the bowl and beat until smooth.
4. While whipping the cream, move the beaters along the edges and bottom of the basin to ensure proper mixing of all the ingredients.
5. Continue beating the cream until a soft or firm peak emerges. This will be determined by how the whipped cream will be used. Only whip the cream to soft peaks if you’re going to fold it into another combination. Beat to a stiff peak for a topping, garnish, or decoration.
6. When bringing the beaters straight up out of the mixture to make soft peaks, beat until a soft curving peak appears. The whipped cream is still soft enough to mix into the remaining ingredients.
7. Continue to beat at high speed for 20 to 30 seconds for a more challenging peak. Pull the beaters straight up out of the whipped cream to check for solid mounts. The peak should keep its shape and adhere to the beaters tightly. Stiff peaks simply mean that the peak that forms on the beater will keep its body even when it is turned upside down.
8. It will seem fluffy and complete, and it will fight your whisk or beaters more than it did before. Stiff peaks form great toppings for cake. Beat for a few seconds longer after hitting the stiff peaks to ensure the cream stays stable.

1.2.3 Important Points To Remember

• It’s important not to overwhip the cream. Stop beating once stiff peaks have formed. Overwhipping the cream causes it to separate and curdle.
• Overwhipped cream can be salvaged by adding 1 to 2 tablespoons more cream and gently whisking it in. If you use a mixer to mix it in, you’ll have the same problem.

This is the easiest whipped cream recipe. It is best to serve immediately.

Whipped cream is best made right before serving, but if you need to make it beforehand, it can be preserved in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours if properly refrigerated and kept in airtight containers.

Whipped Cream: Moderation Is Key

In terms of nutrition, whipped cream doesn’t offer much beyond calories and fat. For folks who are trying to limit how much saturated fat they consume, whipped cream may not make sense as a daily food.

Generally, whipped cream is delicious and fits into a balanced diet in moderation, like all foods.

Heather Fiore, Dietitian-Owner, Free State Nutrition

1.2.4 Potential Problems That Might Be Faced While Following The Whipping Cream Recipe

Although the recipe is quite simple, some problems may arise if the whipping cream recipe is not properly followed, and some of the most common issues faced are:

1. Substitute For Heavy Cream: Double cream can act as a substitute. Although “whipping cream” may also work, the final product will not maintain its shape well, as it does with cold heavy cream.
2. Light cream or half-and-half will not work- They lack the necessary fat to give whipped cream its firm texture. At least 30% fat must be present in the product you are using. Otherwise, the desired result might not appear.
3. When Whipped Cream’s Texture is Not Thick Enough- It might happen if the cream is not whipped correctly and needs more whipping. Another reason might be that the cream used was warm. Warm cream can never get stiff peaks, so put it in the refrigerator before use.
4. Overwhipping The Cream – Overwhipped cream can be fixed by adding a tablespoon or two of cold, heavy whipping cream and mixing it slowly.

1.3 Flavored Whipping Cream Recipe

1.3.1 Whipped Cream With Caramel Nut Flavor

It is a smooth whipped cream with crunchy almonds with a perfect salt and sweet contrast.

1.3.1.1 Ingredients:

• 2 cups of whipping cream
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons of caramel flavor
• 1 cup or, according to taste, salted snack nuts, which are coarsely chopped
• Two tablespoons of meringue powder

1.3.1.2 Directions:

• The directions remain the same for all recipes. Continue whipping to achieve soft peaks in the cream.
• Continue to whisk while adding in the sugar and other ingredients.
• Combine the nuts and fold them in.

1.3.2 Whipped Cream With Peanut Butter Flavor

It is a sweet, salty, and creamy combination of cream, sugar, and peanut butter.

1.3.2.1 Ingredients:

• 2 cups of whipping cream
• 1/3 cup of brown sugar
• 1/3 cup of peanut butter
• 1/3 cup of salted peanuts, which are chopped
• Two tablespoons of meringue powder

1.3.2.2 Directions:

• Continue to beat until the stiff peak appears.
• Combine the peanuts and fold them in.

 1.3.3 Whipped Cream With Caramel Flavor 

It is the second easiest whipping cream recipe, including just whipped cream with a touch of caramel.

1.3.3.1 Ingredients:

• 2 cups of whipping cream
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• Two teaspoons of caramel flavor
• Two tablespoons of meringue powder

1.3.3.2 Directions:

• Continue whipping to achieve soft peaks in the cream.
• Continue to whisk while adding in sugar and other ingredients

Balancing Whipped Cream in Your Fitness Journey

From a seasoned fitness trainer and a health enthusiast’s perspective, I’d like to share insights into the nuanced relationship between including whipped cream in one’s diet and achieving fitness goals.

While whipped cream is often regarded as a treat due to its sugar and fat content, mindful integration can make it a welcome addition without derailing health objectives.

First, it’s pivotal to consider portion control. A dollop can enhance the taste and presentation of desserts or beverages without significantly impacting your caloric intake. 

Secondly, opt for whipped cream made from reduced-fat or alternative milk for those looking to manage their fat intake better. These versions offer a similar texture and creaminess but with a fraction of the fats. 

Moreover, incorporating whipped cream into recipes rich in fruits can increase the nutritional value, providing essential vitamins and antioxidants alongside indulgence.

It’s all about striking a balance; enjoying whipped cream in moderation, paired with healthy ingredients, can harmonize with a well-rounded fitness regimen. 

By considering these small, strategic choices, individuals can enjoy the pleasures of whipped cream without compromising their health and fitness ambitions.

Marc Massad, Certified Pickleball Trainer, Velocity Paddle

1.3.4 Whipped Cream With Chocolate Flavor

It is the most famous whipping cream recipe. It is just simple whipped cream with a touch of chocolate.

1.3.4.1 Ingredients:

• 2 cups of whipping cream
• 1/2 cup of milk chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar or according to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

1.3.4.2 Directions:

• Continue whipping to achieve soft peaks in the cream.
• Heat the chocolate for one minute on high, then stir after some time, and continue heating until it is completely melted. Allow three to five minutes for the chocolate to cool down. The chocolate should be warm but not hot and still liquid.
• 1/3 of the whipping cream should be folded into chocolate.
• Combine the chocolate mixture, sugar, and vanilla extract in the remaining whipped cream according to your taste.

 1.3.5 Whipped Cream With Strawberry Key Lime Flavor

It is a simple whipped cream with a touch of strawberry and key lime.

1.3.5.1 Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup of powdered sugar
• 4 ounces of cream cheese
• 2 cups of whipping cream
• Two drops of deep pink Americolor food color gel or equal
• One teaspoon of strawberry flavor
• One teaspoon of lime flavor
• zest from two small limes, this is optional

1.3.5.2 Directions:

• Place the sugar and cream cheese in the bowl and beat until the sugar is creamed into a soft, consistent mixture.
• Add the cream, color, and flavors and beat until soft peaks form and then fold in the zest.
• Put the whipping cream in the refrigerator until it is ready to use.

Create Inclusive Whipped Cream Recipes

Within the realm of the many whipped-cream recipes that need to cater to different dietary needs—dairy-free versions that make use of coconut cream, for example—finding different ingredients with more common commodities can make for more accessible recipes.

Spreading these recipes across diverse online audiences can also play a role.

I created a vegan whipped cream recipe using coconut cream, and it ended up on a food blog. Readers commented, saying they loved the recipe because their diet restricted them from dairy.

This was my wake-up call to be more inclusive in my recipe writing and to engage with a larger and more diverse audience by providing some flexible options.

Zoe Miller, Strategic Business Leader & Market Analyst, Tea Time Facts

1.3.6. Whipped Cream With Orange Cloud Flavor

Simple whipped cream with orange flavor and zest but with the most outstanding results.

1.3.6.1 Ingredients:

• 2 cups of whipping cream
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• Two teaspoons of orange flavor
• One tablespoon of orange zest
• Two tablespoons of meringue powder

1.3.6.2 Directions:

• Continue whipping to achieve soft peaks in the cream.
• Whip in the sugar, flavor, and zest until smooth.

Whipped Cream Tips from a Pastry Chef

As a pastry chef, I’ve used whipped cream in so many different ways it’s hard to keep track! So, I’ve pulled a few of my best tips to share with you today.

The best thing about whipped cream is how versatile it is and how easy it is to flavor. There’s always the classic Chantilly cream, which involves folding in a teaspoon of vanilla essence and sifted powdered sugar to taste, but there are so many other ways to flavor this topping or filling.

Try folding a raspberry coulis into well whipped cream, that has reached stiff peaks. If you’re careful, this will result in a light and fluffy filling that is rich with raspberry flavor.

Whipped cream can be used as a topping for dessert or beverages, but my favorite way to use it is as a filling. I’ll flavor it as I prefer and then pipe it into any form from a donut to a mile feuille. It really is that versatile.

Amy Hand, Contributing Writer, The Skillful Cook

1.4 Whipping Cream Recipe – Dessert And Snacks

Whipped cream acts as a very versatile snack and can be eaten with a variety of food items.

1.4.1 Milkshakes

Cold heavy whipping cream can be put on Oreo, strawberry, or any other flavored milkshake. It makes it more appalling and makes its taste even better.

1.4.2 Cookies And Biscuits

Cookies and biscuits can be eaten with cream or cold heavy whipping cream when no dessert is available, and you crave something sweet. Various cookie recipes make cookies that can be eaten with different whipped creams.

1.4.3 Cake And Cupcake Toppings

Cold whipped cream acts as a perfect topping for cakes. It adds flavor to it and is used to decorate it. Different colors of whipped creams are used to make different types of beautiful cakes that are super tasty. It is the favorite dessert of most people.

1.4.4 Coffee

Coffee whipped cream is another very famous item, especially amongst coffee lovers. Although not healthy, its taste is what attracts most people. It is the perfect addition to cupcakes and cakes.

1.4.5 Fillings

It fills many food items like cream puffs, making it a classic dessert cuisine.

1.4.6 Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate with whipped cream is like heaven on earth, especially for chocolate lovers.  The rich taste of chocolate and smooth cream takes us to a different world.

1.4.7 Pancake

Whipped cream can also be used as a topping for pancakes. It takes its taste to a different level.

1.4.8 Salad

Nowadays, people are eating whipped cream with salad to add a little taste to it. Salads are bland, and small cups of whipped cream would add a little taste.

A widespread whipped cream salad recipe is a fruit salad with whipped cream; excellent taste with health benefits makes it perfect. The unique flavors of fruit combined with the subtle flavors of whipped cream make this an ideal blend.

Apart from being a classic topping, there are various other uses, like adding multiple curries and sauces to increase its flavor. It has become a traditional dip used in parties and treats and is loved by children and adults alike.

Combine with Fiber for Balance

Michaela Ramirez, MD, the Founder of O My Gulay, suggests whipped cream can be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation:

“Whipped cream primarily consists of fat and sugar, with minimal [amounts of] other essential nutrients like vitamins and fiber. It’s rich in saturated fats, which can raise LDL cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease or strokes.

Most commercially available whipped creams also have excessive added sugars, which contribute to various health issues like obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay.

While whipped cream offers little to no significant contribution to a balanced diet, there are ways to minimize its harmful effects, such as by eating it [along] with fiber-rich foods like fresh fruits, nuts, or seeds.

The fiber would help slow the absorption of fats and added sugars from the whipped cream. Fiber also makes you feel full sooner and longer, which reduces overeating.

[By] incorporating fiber-rich foods into your diet regularly, you can create a more balanced and supportive environment for your body, even when indulging in occasional treats. Remember, it’s all about mindful choices and finding a healthy balance!”

Bottom Line

Instead of buying it from the grocery stores, it is advised to make it at home to avoid the chemicals and added chemicals. All in all, the whipping cream recipe is very easy, and it is a very versatile snack that is loved by all and is okay to consume until it is in the limit. Everything in excess would cause problems.

Guest Author: Saket Kumar

Last Updated on March 28, 2024 by Saket Kumar