Double Cream vs. Whipping Cream: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Published on December 10, 2023
Double cream has a higher fat content (about 48%) than whipping cream (about 35%), making it thicker and richer, while whipping cream is lighter and whips more easily.
Key Differences
Double cream, with its higher fat content of around 48%, is thicker and richer than whipping cream, which has about 35% fat. This difference in fat content significantly affects their texture and culinary uses.
Both double cream and whipping cream are used in various recipes, but their differing fat contents make double cream more suitable for thicker sauces and fillings, while whipping cream is ideal for lighter toppings and mixtures.
Whipping cream, as its name suggests, is easier to whip and holds its shape well, making it a preferred choice for desserts. Double cream, due to its higher fat content, can be over-whipped more easily but provides a richer taste.
Double cream is more commonly found in the UK, while whipping cream is widely available in the US. Their availability often influences regional cooking styles and recipe adaptations.
Substituting one for the other in recipes requires adjustments; whipping cream might need stabilizers for thickness, whereas double cream may need dilution for a lighter consistency.
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Comparison Chart
Fat Content
About 48% fat, making it richer and thicker.
Around 35% fat, lighter in texture.
Whipping Ability
Can be over-whipped easily, becomes very thick.
Whips easily and holds shape well.
Culinary Use
Ideal for thick sauces and rich desserts.
Preferred for light toppings and mixtures.
Texture
Heavier and creamier texture.
Lighter and more airy when whipped.
Availability
More common in the UK.
Widely available in the US.
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Double Cream and Whipping Cream Definitions
Double Cream
Double cream, with its high fat, is often used in its natural state in coffee or desserts.
A dollop of double cream transformed the hot chocolate into an indulgent treat.
Whipping Cream
Whipping cream is ideal for aerating into a fluffy texture for desserts.
The whipping cream was beaten until fluffy to frost the cupcakes.
Double Cream
Double cream is a heavy cream with about 48% fat content, ideal for thickening sauces.
She finished her pasta dish with a spoonful of double cream for extra richness.
Whipping Cream
Whipping cream is less rich than double cream, making it a lighter option.
I opted for whipping cream to lighten up the alfredo sauce.
Double Cream
Double cream is a high-fat dairy product, creamier and thicker than single cream.
I used double cream to make a rich, velvety chocolate ganache.
Whipping Cream
Whipping cream is a lighter cream with around 35% fat, used for making whipped toppings.
I whipped the whipping cream until it formed soft peaks for the pie topping.
Double Cream
Double cream is known for its thick consistency, perfect for creating dense dessert fillings.
The double cream added a luxurious texture to the cheesecake filling.
Whipping Cream
Whipping cream is versatile, used both in its liquid form and when whipped.
The recipe called for both liquid and whipped forms of whipping cream for the layers.
Double Cream
Double cream can be lightly whipped but is less airy than whipping cream.
For the trifle, I lightly whipped the double cream to layer between the sponge and fruit.
Whipping Cream
Whipping cream holds its shape well when whipped, making it perfect for decorating.
She piped the whipped whipping cream onto the cake for an elegant finish.
FAQs
Can double cream be whipped like whipping cream?
Double cream can be whipped, but it becomes thicker and less airy than whipped whipping cream.
What is double cream?
Double cream is a rich dairy product with about 48% fat content, used in cooking and baking for its thickness and richness.
What is whipping cream?
Whipping cream is a dairy product with approximately 35% fat, used for its ability to whip into a light, airy texture.
Can I substitute double cream for whipping cream?
Yes, but the result will be richer and thicker due to the higher fat content in double cream.
Is whipping cream the same as heavy cream?
Whipping cream is similar to heavy cream but has a slightly lower fat content.
How do I store double cream and whipping cream?
Store both in the refrigerator and use them within the expiry date.
Can double cream be used in coffee?
Yes, it adds a rich and creamy texture to coffee.
Can I freeze double cream?
Freezing can alter its texture, so it's not recommended.
Which is healthier, double cream or whipping cream?
Both are high in fat, but whipping cream is slightly lower in fat and calories.
Is there a vegan alternative to these creams?
Yes, there are plant-based cream alternatives made from soy, almond, or coconut.
How long does it take to whip whipping cream?
It usually takes about 3-5 minutes to whip to soft peaks.
Is double cream suitable for lactose-intolerant people?
Generally, no, as it contains lactose.
Is double cream suitable for making whipped toppings?
It can be used, but it results in a denser, less fluffy topping than whipping cream.
Can I use whipping cream in recipes calling for double cream?
Yes, but the dish may be less rich and require a thickening agent.
What desserts are best made with double cream?
Rich desserts like ganaches, thick custards, and dense cake fillings.
What is the best way to whip double cream?
Chill the cream and bowl first, then whip until it forms soft peaks, being careful not to over-whip.
Does whipping cream increase in volume when whipped?
Yes, it approximately doubles in volume when whipped.
Can I make butter from double cream or whipping cream?
Yes, by over-whipping either cream, butter can be formed.
Can I add sugar to whipping cream when whipping it?
Yes, sugar can be added for sweetness.
Does whipping cream curdle when heated?
It can if overheated; gentle heating is recommended.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
