Heavy Cream vs. Heavy Whipping Cream: Is There Actually a Difference?
What the labels actually mean.
If you've ever shopped for heavy cream, you may have found yourself frustrated if you couldn't even find it in the dairy aisle. You probably found heavy whipping cream and wondered if that could be used in place of the heavy cream you need to make scones or some other decadent treat like whipped hot chocolate. Or, maybe you found both creams side by side and questioned which was better when it comes to heavy cream vs. heavy whipping cream. Luckily, there is no need to stress about the differences anymore—we've got this covered.
It can also get a little tricky when you find heavy cream, heavy whipping cream, whipping cream and light whipping cream. Why so many creams?! We'll explain what makes some whipping creams heavy and what effect they have on recipes.
Related: 16 Good Substitutes for Heavy Cream If You're In A Pinch
Heavy Cream vs. Heavy Whipping Cream
When a recipe calls for heavy cream, it doesn't really matter if you use heavy cream or heavy whipping cream. They can be used interchangeably and often are. So why are there two different names? Basically, it's all about the brand. Heavy cream and heavy whipping cream are essentially the same exact thing. However, grocery stores commonly sell heavy cream as heavy whipping cream which is why it can be easier to find (but often leads to confusion).
The only difference between the two creams is the label. To be a heavy cream (or heavy whipping cream), it has to contain at least 36% milk fat as stated by the FDA code of regulations.
On the other hand, regular whipping cream has a lower fat content of between 30 and 35 percent milk fat. And, by the way, whipping cream is sometimes called "light whipping cream."
When To Use Heavy Cream
Although all creams are pretty interchangeable, there are times when you will get better results using heavy cream (or heavy whipping cream). If the end result of what you are making is more important to you than calories, go with whatever the recipe suggests.
Heavy cream can be better when you need a thicker consistency. For example, a cream filling in a cake will hold better with heavy cream because of the slightly higher fat content.
Other things like chowder, creamy soups and sauces will turn out better with heavy cream, which acts as a thickening agent.
Related: New Research Sheds Light on Keto's Scary Downsides—Here's What Registered Dietitians Have To Say
When To Use Whipping Cream
Whipping cream, because it is lighter, is perfect for topping pies or ice cream. It's not as stable as heavy cream and will go back to a more liquid form in time. Of course, this doesn't matter when you are eating a dessert, since they tend to be gobbled up in no time at all!
Nutritional Differences Between Heavy Cream And Whipping Cream
Heavy Cream (or Heavy Whipping Cream) Per Tablespoon
50 calories
5 g of fat
3.5 g of saturated fat
Whipping Cream (or Light Whipping Cream) Per Tablespoon
45 calories
4.5 g of fat
3 g of saturated fat
As you can see, there aren't major differences between the two. You will get an airier or more fluffy texture with whipping cream and a denser, more stable texture with heavy cream. If you want to stock up on one or the other, heavy cream is an option that works for pretty much everything.
Can You Substitute Cool Whip or Canned Cream For Heavy Cream?
Technically, you can substitute these ready-made toppings for sweet desserts. However, they typically contain ingredients like high fructose corn syrup, which are not healthy.
If you substitute Cool Whip for heavy cream in sauces or soups, you will get a sweeter flavor that may or may not be a desirable effect. It's typically better to whip up your own cream using heavy cream.
How To Whip up the Best Cream
Whether you use heavy cream or regular whipping cream, there are some tips to ensure you get the best consistency of cream.
Chill your cream, bowl and beaters beforehand.
Whip your cream at medium-high speed.
Whip until you get soft peaks.
If you want to use the cream as a dessert topping, just add a bit of sugar and vanilla to the cream.
