Dairy | Vegetarian

Cream

N/A (Dairy Product) Allergens: Milk
cream

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (Cow's Milk)
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's Milk

The Forktionary Angle

"The Culinary Enricher"

Definition

The fatty part of milk that rises to the surface, used for enriching dishes, whipping, or as a base for sauces.

Sensory Profile

TasteRich, Fatty
TextureSmooth, Viscous
AromaMilky, Sweet
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Science Fact

The fat content dictates its whipping ability and richness; heavy cream is typically 36%+ butterfat.

Storage Tip

Keep refrigerated below 40°F (4°C) and use by the expiration date for best quality.

Usage Tip

Heavy cream is ideal for whipping, while lighter creams enhance soups and coffee.

Nutrition Facts

Per 15 ml (1 tbsp)
Calories345 kcal
Total Fat37.0 g
Saturated Fat23.0 g
Trans Fat1.0 g
Cholesterol137 mg
Protein2.2 g
Total Carbohydrate3.4 g
Dietary Fiber0.0 g
Total Sugars3.4 g
Calcium78 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium100 mg

Chef’s Secret

For perfect whipped cream, ensure the cream, bowl, and whisk are very cold before whipping.

Substitutions

Best Match

Coconut Milk

1:1

Dairy-free, rich texture, distinct coconut flavor; good for curries and desserts.

Full-Fat Yogurt

1:1

Tangier, slightly thicker; good for sauces and dressings (not whipping).

Evaporated Milk (chilled & whipped)

1:1

Lighter, less fatty, can be whipped for similar uses.

Cashew Cream

1:1

Dairy-free, neutral flavor, creamy texture, good for sauces and desserts.

Buying Guide

Choose cream based on its fat content for your specific use: heavy cream for whipping, light cream for coffee.

Flavor Pairings

Coffee Soups Sauces Desserts Pasta Fruit

Recipes Using Cream

Technique Easy 15 Minutes Or Less Desserts

10 Minute Lime Pie

Craving key lime pie but short on time? This 10-Minute Lime Pie delivers the same tangy, refreshing flavor in a fraction of the time! A simplified version inspired by Serious Eats, this recipe skips the lengthy lime-squeezing process – use fresh lime juice or bottled for ultimate convenience. Get ready for a cool, creamy, and unbelievably easy dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

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Easy Time To Make Dietary Easy

30 Minute Shepherd's Pie

Craving comfort food? This 30-Minute Shepherd's Pie, inspired by Rachael Ray, delivers incredible flavor in a flash! Easy to follow instructions and simple ingredients make this the perfect weeknight meal. Tender meat, creamy mashed potatoes, and a perfectly browned top – pure deliciousness!

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Low Fat Desserts Dietary Low In Something

African Mango Fool

Transport your taste buds to the era of British colonialism in Africa with this delightful dessert, adapted from a treasured Congolese cookbook! This creamy, dreamy Mango Fool boasts a rich custard base and sweet, luscious mango, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Choose between the traditional method (a touch more effort for incredible results) or our easy shortcut for a quicker treat. Either way, get ready for a taste of history and pure deliciousness!

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Valentines Day Dinner Party Easy Occasion

Ahoy There Moules Marinires French Sailor's Mussels

Experience the taste of the French coast with this classic Moules Marinières recipe! Delicate, fresh mussels are steamed to perfection in a rich, savory sauce of white wine, garlic, parsley, butter (or olive oil for a healthier twist!), onion, and cream. This irresistible dish, also known as Sailor's Mussels or Mariner's Mussels, makes a fantastic appetizer or a light yet satisfying main course. Serve with crusty bread for dipping or alongside crispy frites (fries) for a truly authentic experience. Learn how to easily prepare and cook these mussels – our step-by-step guide makes it effortless! Get ready for a fun, interactive meal where you use the empty shells as your 'spoons'! Bon appétit!

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To Go Occasion Saltwater Fish Course

Any Kind Casserole

This incredibly versatile casserole recipe is a family favorite, adaptable to countless variations! Inspired by thrifty cooking blogs, this recipe uses simple ingredients and offers a creamy, comforting dish every time. Perfect for using up leftover veggies or creating a delicious meal from scratch. Pre-boiling the potatoes ensures a perfectly tender texture. Customize with your favorite add-ins – the possibilities are endless!

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Granola And Porridge Low Cholesterol Low Sodium Fruit

Apple N Oats Breakfast Pudding

Start your day with this delicious and healthy Apple N' Oats Breakfast Pudding! This low-GI recipe is perfect for those watching their blood sugar or simply seeking a nutritious and satisfying breakfast. We love using Braeburn apples for their sweetness, but feel free to experiment with your favorite baking apples. Warm, comforting, and bursting with cinnamon spice, this pudding is sure to become a new morning favorite!

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Low In Something Low In Something Cobblers And Crisps 60 Minutes Or Less

Apple Crisp For 2

Indulge in a warm, comforting apple crisp made for two! This perfectly portioned dessert is a delightful treat for a cozy night in. Easy to make with simple ingredients, this recipe delivers a sweet and satisfying experience without the leftovers. Perfect for a romantic evening or a quiet night alone.

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Taste Mood Time To Make Fall Desserts

Apple French Bread Bake

This irresistible Apple French Bread Bake is a comforting and delicious dessert, perfect for any occasion! Inspired by a French teacher's recipe, this easy-to-follow bake features tender bread cubes, sweet apples, and a rich cinnamon syrup. Customize it to your liking – use your favorite apples, adjust the sweetness, and add walnuts for extra crunch. Get ready for a warm, gooey, and utterly satisfying treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Main Ingredient Finger Food Seasonal Apples

Apple Streusel Muffins

Indulge in the irresistible combination of warm apple, hearty oatmeal, and a crunchy streusel topping in these delightful muffins! This recipe, inspired by three beloved classics, blends the best of apple muffin, oatmeal muffin, and caramel drizzle recipes. Double the recipe for a larger batch to share – the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack!

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Occasion Healthy Fruit 30 Minutes Or Less

Applesauce Waffles

Delight your taste buds with these fluffy Applesauce Waffles! A deliciously moist and subtly sweet twist on a classic breakfast favorite. This vintage recipe, originally found in the Houston Chronicle, delivers a comforting, home-style treat perfect for weekend brunch or a weekday morning pick-me-up. Get ready for a burst of apple flavor in every bite!

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Cakes Desserts Comfort Food Low Sodium

Autumn Apple Buckle

This Autumn Apple Buckle is a delightful twist on the classic buckle cake! Instead of summer berries, we're using tart apples for a denser, more comforting coffee cake experience. A buttery, cinnamon-spiced streusel topping perfectly complements the tender apple-filled cake, making it the ideal dessert for crisp autumn evenings. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for beginner bakers.

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Time To Make Desserts Course Preparation

Baileys Irish Cream Dip

Indulge in this luxuriously creamy Baileys Irish Cream Dip, perfect for dipping fruit, wafers, or enjoying as an elegant mousse! This versatile recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring only 10 minutes of prep time. Elevate your dessert game with this decadent treat, effortlessly transforming simple ingredients into a sophisticated and delicious experience. Try adding fresh berries or chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.

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Sweet Time To Make Occasion 60 Minutes Or Less

Baked Cinnamon French Toast

Indulge in a healthier twist on a classic breakfast favorite! This Baked Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is baked, not fried, making it a guilt-free delight. Prepare it the night before for a quick and easy morning, or bake fresh for a warm, comforting treat. Loaded with cinnamon, vanilla, and your favorite bread, it's the perfect weekend brunch or weekday breakfast.

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Course Main Ingredient Number Of Servings 60 Minutes Or Less

Banana Cake With Crunchy Top

Get ready for the BEST banana cake you'll ever taste! This recipe features a ridiculously delicious crunchy crumble topping that elevates a classic. Tried and true – I've made this perfect cake over 20 times! It's moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat!

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Easy Frozen Desserts 30 Minutes Or Less Easy

Banana Caramel Board Shorts

Indulge in the ultimate dessert decadence with our Banana Caramel Board Shorts! This over-the-top creation layers creamy ice cream, sweet bananas, rich caramel, crunchy macadamia nuts, and fluffy whipped cream for a flavor explosion. Perfect for a special occasion or a well-deserved treat, this recipe is easily customizable – try it with vanilla ice cream for a delightful twist! Prepare to be amazed!

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Dietary High Calcium Breakfast Main Ingredient

Banana Pecan Whole Wheat Pancakes

Inspired by a South Carolina favorite, these easy whole wheat pancakes burst with the delicious flavor of ripe bananas and crunchy pecans. A healthier twist on a classic breakfast treat, this recipe is perfect for weekend brunches or a quick weeknight meal. Get ready for fluffy, flavorful pancakes that will leave you wanting more!

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Brunch North American Occasion Preparation

Bavarian Coffee

Escape to the Alps with this decadent Bavarian Coffee recipe! Rich, creamy, and effortlessly elegant, this 3-minute drink is the perfect pick-me-up or luxurious treat. Indulge in the perfect blend of coffee, liqueur, and sweet cream for an unforgettable taste of Bavaria.

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Lime Fruit Small Appliance Lime

Lime Cream Fresh Strawberry Pie With Gingersnap Crust

A vibrant and refreshing Lime Cream Fresh Strawberry Pie, boasting a buttery gingersnap crust and a cool, tangy lime filling topped with juicy strawberries. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or a delightful treat any time! The creamy lime filling is light, bright, and perfectly complements the sweet strawberries. Get ready to impress!

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