Understanding Heavy Cream: Uses, Substitutes, and Recipes

heavy cream

What Is Heavy Cream? And What Is a Heavy Cream Substitute?

Heavy-cream is a versatile ingredient, often used in both savory and sweet dishes. Whether you’re whipping it for desserts or using it to enrich sauces, it’s a must-have in your kitchen.

What Is Heavy Cream?

Heavy-cream is the fat that rises to the top of fresh milk if it hasn’t been homogenized. The FDA defines heavy-cream as having between 36% to 40% fat. While most grocery stores sell cream with 36% fat, restaurants often use 40%.

Are Heavy Cream and Whipping Cream the Same?

Yes! Heavy-cream and heavy whipping cream are the same. The only difference lies in labeling. Both will whip, but the higher fat content helps it hold shape better.

What Is the Difference Between Heavy-Cream and Half and Half?

Half and half is a combination of equal parts milk and cream, with a fat content between 10.5% and 18%. It’s thinner than heavy-cream and won’t whip, but it’s perfect for coffee or lighter sauces.

What Is a Heavy-Cream Substitute?

To substitute heavy-cream in cooking, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter and mix it with ¾ cup whole milk or half and half. This substitute works well in soups and sauces but isn’t ideal for whipping.

Vegan Heavy-Cream Substitute

For a vegan option, use the cream from a can of full-fat coconut milk. Chill the can, skim the fat from the top, and use it in savory dishes or whip it with sugar for desserts.

How to Make Whipped Cream from Heavy-Cream

1. Chill the bowl and beaters: Freeze them for 15 minutes.
2. Add sugar: Use 1 to 2 tablespoons per cup of cream.
3. Whisk: Start on low and increase to medium-high until firm peaks form.
4. Refrigerate: If it deflates, re-whip with a hand whisk.

What Is Heavy-Cream Used For?

Heavy-cream is used for soups, sauces, ice cream, frostings, and whipped toppings. Its high-fat content allows it to thicken without curdling, making it perfect for boiling.

Recipes Featuring Heavy-Cream

• Classic Strawberry Shortcake: Sweetened strawberries with whipped cream.
• Hot Chocolate Pudding: Topped with whipped cream for indulgence.
• Penne With Vodka Sauce: Creamy and rich pasta sauce.
• Whipped Cream Frosting: A versatile topping for cakes and pies.
• Linguine With Sausage and Mushrooms: A decadent sauce for pasta.
  
  
  
  
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