Description

This easy homemade whipped cream recipe yields light, fluffy, and creamy whipped topping perfect for desserts. Made with just heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, it can be prepared quickly using an electric mixer and chilled tools for best results. Ideal for topping cakes, pies, hot beverages, or fresh fruit, this versatile whipped cream adds a luscious finish to your favorite sweet treats.

Ingredients

Scale

Whipped Cream Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream (cold)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (or to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

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Instructions

Chill Your Tools: Place your mixing bowl and beaters or whisk attachment in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to help the cream whip faster and hold its shape better.
Pour Cream: Pour the cold heavy cream into the chilled mixing bowl.
Start Whipping: Use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream on medium speed. Begin slowly to avoid splashing, then increase to high speed.
Thicken Cream: After 1-2 minutes, the cream will start to thicken noticeably.
Add Sugar and Vanilla: Once thickening begins, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract for sweetness and flavor.
Form Soft Peaks: Continue beating until gentle soft peaks form, which means the peaks hold shape softly on the beaters.
Achieve Stiffer Peaks: For firmer whipped cream suitable for piping or decorating, beat another 30 seconds until stiff peaks develop.
Stop Mixing: Once desired consistency is reached, halt mixing to avoid overwhipping, which can turn cream into butter.
Use or Store: Use whipped cream immediately or refrigerate up to 24 hours. If it separates, simply whisk briefly before serving.

Notes

Chilling your bowl and beaters significantly improves whipping results.
Adjust powdered sugar to taste; start with less if you prefer a less sweet cream.
Vanilla extract is optional but adds a lovely flavor dimension.
Do not overbeat or the cream will turn grainy and eventually separate into butter and buttermilk.
Whipped cream is best used fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.