Keto Cream: Uses And Benefits Of Heavy Cream

Heavy cream is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of keto-friendly recipes. By using heavy cream and making a few simple substitutions, you can create delicious whipped cream that is sugar-free and low-carb, perfect for those following a keto diet. This whipped cream can be used as a topping for keto-friendly desserts, added to drinks, or even used in savoury dishes.

Keto whipped cream recipe

This keto-friendly whipped cream recipe is the perfect topping for any dessert or drink. It's light, fluffy, and ready in minutes. The best part? It's sugar-free and low-carb, so you can indulge without falling off the keto bandwagon.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of heavy cream (cold)
• 2 teaspoons of sweetener (erythritol, monk fruit, or your preferred sugar substitute)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence (optional)

Method:

• Make sure your heavy cream is very cold but not frozen.
• Pour the heavy cream into a large, clean mixing bowl. (Make sure the bowl has been rinsed well; any residue can ruin the whipped cream.)
• Add the sweetener of your choice to the cream.
• Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the cream, starting on a slow setting. Increase the speed to medium once the cream is no longer spraying everywhere.
• (Optional) After 2 minutes of whipping, add vanilla essence if desired.
• Continue whipping until the cream forms soft peaks when you lift the mixer beaters. This can take between 3-8 minutes. Be careful not to whip past this point, or you'll start to make butter.
• Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips:

• Keep your ingredients and equipment chilled for the best results.
• Adding sweeteners helps stabilize the whipped cream and allows the peaks to hold for longer.
• Experiment with different extracts like lemon, maple, or peppermint for unique flavors.
• For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream.

Heavy cream vs light cream

The main difference between heavy cream and light cream is their fat content. Heavy cream, also known as heavy whipping cream, contains at least 36% milk fat, while light cream contains between 18% and 20% milk fat. This makes heavy cream significantly thicker, richer, and more suitable for creating stable peaks when whipped.

Heavy cream is an excellent choice for adding richness and body to dishes such as soups, sauces, and desserts. Its high-fat content also makes it more resistant to curdling when heated, so it's perfect for recipes like keto whipped cream, clam chowder, or rice pudding.

On the other hand, light cream is better suited for enhancing the creaminess of savory recipes like soups, sides, and mashed potatoes without adding too much extra fat. It's also a good option for drizzling over desserts or adding to coffee.

When substituting one for the other, keep in mind that light cream may not hold up as well to prolonged heating and can potentially curdle. Additionally, due to its lower fat content, it won't create as much body or stability for whipped cream or ice cream.

In summary, heavy cream and light cream have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. Heavy cream is ideal when a rich, thick, and stable cream is desired, while light cream is a better option for adding a lighter touch of creaminess to dishes.

Dairy-free alternatives

Soy Milk and Olive Oil

For a vegan and dairy-free alternative, soy milk can be mixed with olive oil. Olive oil adds fat to soy milk, creating a flavour and function similar to heavy cream. For a cup of heavy cream, combine two-thirds of a cup of soy milk with one-third of a cup of olive oil. However, this mixture is not suitable for recipes that require whipping.

Coconut Cream

Coconut cream is a versatile vegan substitute for heavy cream. It can be purchased or made at home by chilling a can of full-fat coconut milk in the fridge overnight. The hardened coconut cream can then be scooped out and used as a substitute for heavy cream in sweets, baked goods, ice cream, or as a tasty topping for desserts. However, keep in mind that coconut cream has a distinct coconut flavour that may alter the final product.

Silken Tofu and Soy Milk

Silken tofu is made from condensed soy milk and has a soft consistency. Blending it with soy milk creates a smooth, lump-free texture. This mixture can be used as a dairy-free replacement for heavy cream in soups, sauces, and desserts. It can also be whipped and flavoured with vanilla extract to make a vegan whipped topping.

Greek Yogurt and Milk

Greek yogurt blended with whole milk is another alternative to heavy cream for thickening recipes. This mixture is high in protein and can be thinned out with milk to achieve a similar texture to heavy cream. However, it is not suitable for recipes that require whipping and may not provide the same tenderness or flavour in baked goods.

Plant-Based Milk

While not as thick or creamy as regular heavy cream, plant-based milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut creamer can be used as dairy-free alternatives. These options are suitable for coffee, sauces, and baking.

Health benefits of grass-fed heavy cream

Grass-fed heavy cream is a nutrient-dense food with a plethora of health benefits. Firstly, it is rich in healthy fats that promote stronger bones, a lower risk of heart disease, a stronger liver, improved immune function, and proper nerve signalling. These healthy fats also help stabilise blood sugar levels, boost energy, and enhance brain function.

Secondly, grass-fed heavy cream is an excellent source of essential fat-soluble vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin A, which is crucial for eye health and sensory perception; vitamin D, which is vital for neurological function and protecting against depression; vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant and boosts the immune system; and vitamin K2, which may reduce the risk of heart disease, improve bone health, and prevent the build-up of excess calcium in the blood.

Additionally, grass-fed heavy cream is a good source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid that has been linked to cancer prevention, bone health, muscle growth, and protection against chronic inflammatory diseases. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for human health and play a role in preventing cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Finally, grass-fed heavy cream is more easily digestible than processed dairy products due to its abundance of beneficial bacteria and digestive enzymes, making it a delicious and natural option for those who experience discomfort with processed dairy.

Storing and serving keto whipped cream

Keto whipped cream is a versatile dessert topping that can be used to add a touch of sweetness to your favourite treats without the carbs. It is easy to make and can be stored for later use. Here are some tips for storing and serving your keto whipped cream:

Storing Keto Whipped Cream

• It is best to store your keto whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Make sure the whipped cream is covered and store it at the back of the fridge on a middle shelf, as it is cooler in the back.
• The optimal temperature will help preserve the peaks.
• Keto whipped cream can be stored for 2-4 days in the refrigerator.
• It is not recommended to freeze keto whipped cream as it can alter the creamy texture and lead to separation when thawing.

Serving Keto Whipped Cream

• Keto whipped cream is perfect for topping keto-friendly desserts, such as pies, waffles, cakes, and berries.
• It can also be used as a delicious addition to your morning coffee or tea.
• For a more intricate dessert, try using keto whipped cream in combination with other low-carb ingredients, such as chocolate mousse, crepes, or peanut butter mug cake.
• When serving, be sure to use the whipped cream within a few hours, as it is best used fresh and can lose its fluffiness over time.

With these tips, you can enjoy your keto whipped cream to its fullest potential, adding a touch of sweetness to your favourite keto treats!

Frequently asked questions