Heavy Cream vs. Heavy Whipping Cream: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Heavy cream contains at least 36% milk fat and is a rich dairy product used in cooking and baking. Heavy whipping cream is a specific type of heavy cream with at least 36% milk fat, commonly used for whipping to create whipped cream.
Key Differences
Heavy Cream, with its high-fat content, is ideal for thickening sauces and soups. Heavy Whipping Cream, while similar in fat, often contains stabilizers that aid in forming stiff peaks when whipped.
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Dec 18, 2023
In baking, Heavy Cream adds moisture and tenderness, enhancing the texture of cakes and pastries. Heavy Whipping Cream, on the other hand, is perfect for making whipped toppings due to its added stabilizers.
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Dec 18, 2023
Heavy Cream has a slightly richer taste, making it a preferred choice for creamy dishes. Heavy Whipping Cream is more commonly used for its ability to retain air and structure in desserts.
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Dec 18, 2023
For savory dishes, chefs often choose Heavy Cream for its ability to meld flavors without curdling. In contrast, Heavy Whipping Cream is a go-to for dessert garnishes and fillings.
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Dec 18, 2023
Nutritionally, both Heavy Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream are similar in fat and calorie content. However, the latter may have additional ingredients for stabilizing purposes.
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Dec 18, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Best Use
Thickening sauces, adding richness
Whipping for toppings and fillings
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Dec 18, 2023
Nutritional Content
High in fat and calories
Similar, with possible added ingredients
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Dec 18, 2023
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Heavy Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream Definitions
Heavy Cream
Enhances texture and moisture in baked goods.
Heavy cream in the cake batter made it exceptionally moist.
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Dec 09, 2023
Heavy Whipping Cream
Suitable for both sweet and savory dishes.
I used heavy whipping cream in both the pasta sauce and the trifle.
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Dec 09, 2023
Heavy Cream
Though not ideal, can be whipped for toppings.
I ran out of whipping cream, so I used heavy cream for the dessert topping.
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Dec 09, 2023
Heavy Whipping Cream
Contains additives for better whipping consistency.
For the pie topping, I chose heavy whipping cream for its stability.
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Dec 09, 2023
Heavy Cream
A dairy product high in fat, used to enrich dishes.
I used heavy cream to make the pasta sauce creamier.
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Dec 09, 2023
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Heavy Whipping Cream
Creates frothy, airy textures in recipes.
Heavy whipping cream made the chocolate ganache fluffy.
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Dec 09, 2023
Heavy Cream
Adds thickness and creaminess to recipes.
The soup's texture improved after adding heavy cream.
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Dec 09, 2023
Heavy Whipping Cream
Adds lightness and volume to desserts.
The mousse was airy thanks to heavy whipping cream.
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Dec 09, 2023
Heavy Cream
Forms the foundation for many creamy sauces.
Heavy cream is essential for a classic Alfredo sauce.
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Dec 09, 2023
Heavy Whipping Cream
A dairy product designed for making whipped toppings.
I whipped heavy whipping cream for the cake's frosting.
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Dec 09, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is Heavy Cream suitable for making ice cream?
Yes, it's ideal for a creamy texture.
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Dec 18, 2023
Can Heavy Cream be used for whipping?
Yes, but it may not hold peaks as well as Heavy Whipping Cream.
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Dec 18, 2023
Is Heavy Whipping Cream sweeter than Heavy Cream?
No, the sweetness is similar, but the texture differs.
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Dec 18, 2023
Does Heavy Whipping Cream have more calories than Heavy Cream?
The calorie content is similar, but additives in Heavy Whipping Cream can vary.
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Dec 18, 2023
Can I use Heavy Whipping Cream in coffee?
Absolutely, it adds a creamy texture.
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Dec 18, 2023
Can both creams be used in soup recipes?
Yes, they both add richness and creaminess.
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Dec 18, 2023
Can I substitute Heavy Cream for Heavy Whipping Cream in recipes?
Yes, in most cases, they are interchangeable.
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Dec 18, 2023
Is Heavy Cream the same as double cream?
Heavy Cream is similar, but double cream has a slightly higher fat content.
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Dec 18, 2023
Do both creams have the same shelf life?
Generally, yes, but always check the expiration date.
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Dec 18, 2023
Is there a lactose-free version of Heavy Cream or Heavy Whipping Cream?
Yes, lactose-free versions are available in some brands.
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Dec 18, 2023
Can I make butter from Heavy Cream or Heavy Whipping Cream?
Yes, by over-whipping until it separates into butter and buttermilk.
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Dec 18, 2023
Do both creams whip better when cold?
Yes, cold temperature helps in forming stable peaks.
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Dec 18, 2023
Can Heavy Whipping Cream be used in savory dishes?
Yes, it's versatile for both sweet and savory recipes.
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Dec 18, 2023
Is Heavy Whipping Cream good for pasta sauces?
Yes, it adds a creamy and rich texture.
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Dec 18, 2023
Can I use Heavy Cream in place of milk in recipes?
Yes, for a richer and creamier outcome.
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Dec 18, 2023
Are there vegan alternatives to these creams?
Yes, there are plant-based alternatives available.
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Dec 18, 2023
Are these creams suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, due to their high fat and low carb content.
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Dec 18, 2023
Can I freeze Heavy Cream or Heavy Whipping Cream?
They can be frozen, but texture may change upon thawing.
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Dec 18, 2023
Does Heavy Cream curdle when heated?
It's less likely to curdle compared to lower fat dairy products.
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Dec 18, 2023
Are these creams gluten-free?
Typically, yes, but always check labels for additives.
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Dec 18, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.