The Difference Between Heavy Cream, Whipping Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream, Explained (2024)

If you're confused by all the various cartons of cream, we're here to help with an easy explanation of the differences and the best ways to use each one, so you know what to reach for whatever recipe you're making.

By

Lauren Salkeld

The Difference Between Heavy Cream, Whipping Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream, Explained (1)

Lauren Salkeld is a New York City-based writer and editor. She spent a decade working for food magazines and websites, and now uses her culinary and editorial background to help chefs and food personalities share their recipes and stories, by writing and editing cookbooks. She's very happy to work from home, with Rosie, her miniature Schnauzer, by her side.

Updated on August 29, 2022

Have you ever stood in the supermarket dairy aisle, debating whether to buy heavy cream, heavy whipping cream or whipping cream? Is there a difference and does it matter? Despite their confusingly similar names, there are subtle differences between heavy cream and whipping cream. Adding to the confusion, heavy whipping cream is actually the same as heavy cream and whipping cream is sometimes called light whipping cream. While it probably won't make or break a recipe, knowing what to expect from each carton of cream will undoubtedly lead to less stress and more success in the kitchen.

The Difference Between Heavy Cream, Whipping Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream, Explained (2)

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration has labeling standards for each kind of cream. Heavy cream and heavy whipping cream must contain at least 36% or more milk fat, while whipping cream, also known as light whipping cream, must contain 30% to 35% milk fat. If you're having trouble keeping that straight, just remember that if you see the word "heavy," you're dealing with a slightly higher fat content.

The Difference Between Heavy Cream, Whipping Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream, Explained (3)

Pictured Recipe: Bourbon Whipped Cream

When to Use Heavy Cream

A few percentage points of fat may seem insignificant and in many instances it won't matter. If you're whipping cream to dollop on pie or an ice cream sundae, heavy cream and whipping cream will both deliver. However, if you want to pipe whipped cream or create a specific topping of some kind, or if you want to fill a cake, opt for heavy cream. Its slightly higher fat content means it whips better and will be more stable. It also has greater staying power, so if you want to whip your cream more than a few hours ahead, again, go for heavy cream.

Heavy cream's higher fat content also makes it a better thickening agent, making it ideal for gratins, bisques or other creamy soups, savory cream sauces, and dessert sauces like butterscotch and caramel. As a bonus, the extra fat also adds richness and flavor.

The Difference Between Heavy Cream, Whipping Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream, Explained (4)

Pictured Recipe: Strawberry Cornmeal Layer Cake

When to Use Whipping Cream

If you have nutrition concerns and want a lighter option, go for whipping cream. Per tablespoon, it has 45 calories, 4.5 grams of fat and 3 g of saturated fat, whereas heavy cream has 50 calories, 5 g of fat and 3.5 g of saturated fat per tablespoon. Whipping cream also tastes a little lighter and has a more airy, pillowy texture that may be just what you want on top of your apple pie or peach crisp.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to cooking and baking with cream, fat equals versatility, which means heavy cream is the more all-purpose option and will have you covered for just about any recipe.

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The Difference Between Heavy Cream, Whipping Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream, Explained (2024)

FAQs

The Difference Between Heavy Cream, Whipping Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream, Explained? ›

According to the labeling standards of the Food and Drug Administration, heavy cream is a cream with no less than 36% milk fat. It may also be called heavy whipping cream (1). In contrast, whipping cream has a slightly lower milk fat content, 30–36%. It may also be called light whipping cream (2).

What's the difference between heavy cream and heavy whipping cream? ›

Yes, heavy cream and heavy whipping cream are the exact same thing. The confusion lies in the fact that they're sold by different brands under two different names. According to the US Food and Drug Administration's labelling standards, heavy cream must contain at least 36 percent milk fat.

When a recipe calls for cream does that mean heavy whipping cream? ›

23 They are both either pasteurized or ultra-pasteurized, and both can be hom*ogenized. Since heavy whipping cream and heavy cream are the same product, you can use them interchangeably. Next time you see them displayed next to each other in the grocery store, you won't have to think twice about which one to pick up.

What do you use heavy whipping cream for? ›

(Fun fact: heavy cream and heavy whipping cream are the exact same product!). So, whichever carton you've got in your refrigerator, you'll find that it comes in handy for classic recipes such as ice cream, pie filling and chocolate mousse ― as well as savory dishes like crêpes, frittatas and more.

What percentage of fat is in heavy whipping cream? ›

Heavy whipping cream has a milkfat content between 36 – 40 percent. Heavy whipping cream is the richest cream readily available. Heavy cream or heavy whipping cream is the best for making whipped cream, it makes stiff peaks that hold their shape. It is also used for thickening sauces and making desserts.

What is heavy cream called in the grocery store? ›

A: Heavy cream is commonly found at grocery stores labeled 'heavy whipping cream.” You might find some products labeled 'heavy cream.” They are the same. Heavy whipping cream is cream that has a milk fat content of 36-40 percent.

Can you use heavy whipping cream to make butter? ›

Heavy cream, whipping cream, or heavy whipping cream are all suitable choices for making homemade butter. Heavy cream, with the highest percentage of butterfat, will yield the most butter; lower-fat whipping cream will yield less.

Is half & half the same as heavy cream? ›

According to the FDA, half-and-half contains between 10.5 percent to 18 percent milk fat, while heavy cream contains between 36 percent and 40 percent milk fat. Because heavy cream contains more fat, it is thicker and has a richer taste and a creamier mouthfeel than half-and-half.

Why is my whipping cream not whipping? ›

You're not chilling your cream. Using room temperature cream is the cardinal sin of whipped creamery and the number one reason for whipped cream not thickening. If it reaches above 10°C, the fat inside the cream will not emulsify, meaning it can't hold the air particles which allow it to maintain fluffy peaks.

What does heavy whipping cream do to your body? ›

Heavy whipping cream is full of health-promoting vitamins and minerals. However, it's very high in calories and may contribute to weight gain if consumed in large amounts.

Can you freeze heavy whipping cream for later use? ›

Yes, you can freeze heavy whipping cream straight from the carton. Whether you intend to cook with it or whip it, it will still be good to go with a bit of stirring after it's thawed. As for heavy cream that's already been whipped, you can freeze that, too.

How long does heavy cream last after opening? ›

How Long Does Heavy Cream Last in the Fridge After Opening? A carton of heavy cream can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month, according to USDA recommendations.

Is heavy cream bad for cholesterol? ›

Much of the fat found in cream comes from saturated fat. Numerous studies have linked too much saturated fat with an increased risk of high cholesterol. And if you regularly go overboard with cream, your waistline will pay the price.

Is heavy cream inflammatory? ›

Dairy products such as heavy cream, butter, whole milk and cheese should also be avoided as they contain high amounts of trans fat and cholesterol, which causes inflammation. Many dairy products aren't considered anti-inflammatory and should not be consumed if already suffering from any inflammation causing disease.

Is there a difference between heavy whipping cream and heavy cream? ›

According to the labeling standards of the Food and Drug Administration, heavy cream is a cream with no less than 36% milk fat. It may also be called heavy whipping cream (1). In contrast, whipping cream has a slightly lower milk fat content, 30–36%. It may also be called light whipping cream (2).

Can heavy whipping cream be substituted for heavy cream? ›

Heavy cream is essentially milk with a much higher fat content—36% to 40% instead of about 3.5%. Though labeling can differ by brand, heavy cream and heavy whipping cream are essentially the same thing and can be used interchangeably.

Can I use whipping cream for pasta? ›

You can easily make a sauce for pasta with heavy cream or whipping cream. Heavy cream will give you better results because it has a higher fat content, but whipping cream will be fine.

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