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Many people buy premade whipped cream in a can, but it is quite easy to make whipped cream by hand. Homemade whipped cream has a lighter, fresher flavour and chefs agree it is far superior to any premade you can buy at the store. This article will show you how to whip cream using a hand mixer and give you some pro tips so you can have fresh whipped cream by hand whenever you like in just a few minutes.
Getting Started
What Is Whipped Cream?
Whipped cream is a cream or heavy cream whipped for a short time to change the texture. As you whip the fatty liquid, it turns into a light, fluffy foam with a thicker consistency that looks like it has soft peaks. In addition, the whipping motion adds air bubbles to the cream expanding its volume to nearly double the original amount.
Whipped cream is made with cream that has at least 30% fat. Regular half and a half or table cream will not create whipped cream as they have lower fat content and will not develop soft or firm peaks.
What Will You Need to Make Whipped Cream?
We recommend allowing some prep time to get started. Then, gather your supplies and make sure you have the ingredients you need.
Aside from your hand mixer or stand mixer and its whisk adapters or regular beaters, you will also need a large mixing bowl plus your ingredients.
An essential whipped cream is made from 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and one tablespoon of powdered or granulated sugar. This recipe makes approximately eight servings.
How to Make Whipped Cream From Scratch: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add Cold Cream to a Large Bowl
Start by adding cold whipping cream to your mixing bowl and plugging it in your hand or stand mixer. It is important to use cold cream to create a more stable whipped texture that can last longer without collapsing. If you are using a metal bowl, you can chill the bowl in the freezer for a short time before adding the cream.
For the most part, you can probably skip measuring the ingredients when you make whipped cream. Just keep in mind that one cup of whipping cream should make approximately eight servings of whipped cream.
Step 2: Beat on a Low Speed Until Froth Develops
Turn on your mixer to a low-speed setting and start beating the heavy cream. Use small circular motions around the bowl until the cream begins to froth and slightly thicken. You can also whip the cream by hand with a bowl and whisk if you choose. However, this method will take longer and will most likely tire out your arm before the process is complete.
Step 3: Add Flavour and Sweeteners
Once the froth develops, the cream should be stable enough to add your preferred sweetener and possibly some flavour as well. Classic whipped cream recipes use granulated or powdered sugar and vanilla extract. While sugar is the most common sweetener used, whipped cream is pretty versatile. You could also use honey, brown sugar, or agave nectar if you prefer.
What’s more, you can add flavour to taste at this point, but it is not required. Feel free to add whatever sounds good to you. Some common additions include chocolate, almond extract, cocoa powder, and lemon zest.
Step 4: Whip on a Medium Speed Until Peaks Develop
Next, turn your mixer back on, but this time to a medium speed. Using the same small circular motions, continuously mix until the cream thickens and forms soft peaks. Once it starts to hold its shape on the end of the beater without falling off in globs, your homemade whipped cream should be ready. This generally takes about four minutes, but the time will depend on the amount of whipped cream you are making. Another indicator that it is done is when it reaches approximately double the initial volume.
You can choose to whip the cream a bit longer until it develops medium peaks or stiff peaks instead of soft peaks. This depends on your preference and how you are using it, but make sure you do not overwhip the cream.
Step 5: Turn off Mixer and Serve Fresh
Turn off your mixer and serve the whipped cream fresh for the best results. If you allow it to sit for too long, it will start to lose its consistency, and you may be surprised how quickly it can happen.
You can always put the whipped cream in the fridge until you are ready to add it to your desired recipe but be aware that its texture will somewhat change.
Step 6: Clean Up
The final step is to clean up your mess and return your equipment to its proper place in your kitchen. While it may be tempting to leave it for a bit, we recommend rinsing it at the very least to help make cleanup as easy as possible.
Whip Cream FAQs
What Happens if You Over Beat the Cream?
When you make whipped cream, you don’t overbeat the cream, or it will become too thick, grainy, and small lumps will start to develop. If this happens, add a couple more tablespoons of cream to smooth out the consistency.
If this does not work, you have crossed the line between making whipped cream and butter, and you will have to start over.
What Can You Put Whipped Cream On?
Whipped cream can be used in a variety of recipes like cream pie but is most often used as a topping on almost any kind of dessert.
Try using it as a topping on a cake, pie, coffee, ice cream sundae, or fruit for a light and fresh addition.
Perfect Whipped Cream Every Time
Now that you know how to whip cream using a hand mixer and have read through our helpful tips, what will you add to first? Just remember to use cold cream, add flavour to taste, and beat the ingredients continuously. You will be surprised to know that you just created a homemade whipped cream by hand like a pro in no time.
Let us know what you think in the comments below.
Emily is a woman of many talents. She has a B.A. in English and enjoys writing. Emily loves accessorising her home with quality products that not only serve a purpose but also enhance the overall convenience and tranquillity of her living space; there’s nothing like coming home to your own personal sanctuary after a long day! She loves anything that can make life easier or more comfortable—from dishware to furniture to lighting fixtures.
