Learn how to make whipped cream with the simple process in this step-by-step guide. With just three ingredients and a few minutes, you will have perfectly fluffy whipped cream to use on all your favorite drinks and desserts! 

I am so excited to bring you another post in our All the Healthy Things “Just the Basics” series. These posts are focused on helping you master basics in the kitchen and, hopefully, inspiring you with a few new ideas along the way.

If you are new to cooking, or just need a refresher on the basics, these posts are designed to help you feel more confident in the kitchen. Once you have a handle on a few basic concepts and techniques, you can easily build upon them to create new and exciting recipes and dishes without a second thought.

If you have ever wondered how some people just seem to know how to cook without a recipe or can quickly throw together a meal in a moment’s notice, it’s likely because they have a good grasp of the basics. I want that for you! It’s my hope that every just the basics post helps you feel more comfortable so that you can enjoy your time spent in the kitchen even more!

If you haven’t already be sure to check out the other how-to guides in the series.

Here are a few of our most popular posts: 

recipe ingredients

Is Whipping Cream the Same as Heavy Whipping Cream?

Not quite! The primary difference between whipping cream and heavy whipping cream is the percentage of milk fat present. 

For instance, heavy cream, also known as heavy whipping cream, contains 36% milk fat. Meanwhile, whipping cream is a little lighter, containing 30% milk fat. 

Most of the time they can be used interchangeably. However, when it comes to learning how to make whipped cream, heavy whipping cream is best! It tends to hold its shape longer, creating a rich, pillowy whipped cream you’ll love. 

Whipped Cream Ingredients

Heavy Whipping Cream: make sure it’s cold! 

Maple Syrup: this is used to sweeten the whipped cream just a bit without the need for refined sugar. If you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey, refined sugar, or powdered sugar instead. 

Vanilla Extract: this enhances the sweet flavor. It’s subtle, but you’ll notice if it’s not there! 

Helpful Kitchen Tools

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk, Hand Mixer, or Stand Mixer

whipped cream being beat in bowl

How to Make Homemade Whipped Cream

Step One: Add the ingredients to a large, cold mixing bowl. 

Step Two: Use a whisk, hand mixer, or stand mixer to whip until the cream is light and fluffy and has firm peaks with slightly softened tips. The peaks should hold their shape on their own! 

finish cream in bowl

Flavor Ideas

If you’re looking to get a little creative with your whipped cream, try experimenting with different flavor variations. There are lots of options, but some of my favorites include: 

  • Chocolate – espresso powder and cocoa powder 
  • Festive – almond extract, peppermint extract, or cinnamon powder
  • Citrusy – lemon juice, orange juice, or lime juice along with zest
  • Peanut Butter – creamy peanut butter or powdered peanut butter
  • Caramel – caramel sauce or even this apple cider caramel sauce

whipped cream in bowl

How to Store

Store: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or a piping bag, or tightly cover the bowl with plastic wrap. The whipped cream will keep for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my whipped cream curdles? 

Curdling happens when the heavy cream is overmixed. Don’t panic! Just slowly add in more heavy cream, mixing about 2 tablespoons at a time until your desired consistency is achieved. 

How much whipped cream does 1 cup of whipping cream make? 

When whipped, heavy whipping cream doubles in volume. This means 1 cup of heavy cream yields 2 cups of whipped cream. 

Can I use half and half for this recipe? 

No, with just 18% milk fat, half and half doesn’t hold its shape or whip well like heavy whipping cream will. 

Can I use a blender?

I don’t recommend it! It’s really easy to overmix your cream using a blender. 

What if I over whip the cream? 

Overwhipping will cause your whipped cream to become grainy and possibly lose its stiff consistency. If this happens, just slowly add more heavy whipping cream. 

Can whipped cream replace Cool Whip? 

No, in most recipes whipped cream can’t be substituted for Cool Whip as Cool Whip has stabilizers and does not break down the same way whipped cream does. 

cream and berries in bowl

Ways to Use Whipped Cream

There are endless ways to use whipped cream! It works great as a topping on beverages and treats and can even be used in some recipes to create a creamy consistency. Some of my favorite ways to put it to use include: 

I hope you give this recipe for Homemade Whipped Cream a try! It’s surprisingly easy to make and the perfect topper for so many treats.  If you do give this recipe a try, let me know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @allthehealthythings on INSTAGRAM. Your reviews and ratings help support All the Healthy Things and make it possible for me to continue to create the recipes you trust and love.

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whipped cream and berries in bowl

How to Make Whipped Cream

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  • Author: Ashlea Carver
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 cups 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Learn how to make whipped cream with the simple process in this step-by-step guide. With just three ingredients and a few minutes, you will have perfectly fluffed homemade whipped cream to use on all your favorite drinks and desserts! 


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Add the whipping cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to a large cold mixing bowl.
  2. Use a whisk, hand mixer, or stand mixer to whip until the cream is light, fluffy, and has firm peaks with slightly softened tips.

Recipe by: Ashlea Carver / All the Healthy Things | Photography by: THE MINDFUL HAPA

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