If you’re looking for a vegan alternative to traditional whipped cream, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll show you how to make vegan whipped cream that’s just as light and fluffy as the dairy-based version. From ingredients to technique, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Vegan Whipped Cream
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of making vegan whipped cream, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need. Fortunately, most of these ingredients are probably already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can of full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight
- 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar (or more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Equipment Needed for Making Vegan Whipped Cream
In addition to the ingredients listed above, you’ll also need some basic kitchen equipment to make vegan whipped cream. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A mixing bowl
- A whisk (handheld or electric)
- A can opener
- A spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Vegan Whipped Cream
Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to make vegan whipped cream! Follow these steps to create the perfect fluffy topping for your desserts:
Step 1: Chill your mixing bowl and whisk
Before you begin, it’s important to chill your mixing bowl and whisk. This will help your whipped cream come together more quickly and easily. Place your mixing bowl and whisk in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before you start.
Step 2: Add your ingredients to the mixing bowl
Open your can of coconut milk and scoop out the solidified cream at the top. Discard any liquid at the bottom of the can. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using) to the mixing bowl with the coconut cream.
Step 3: Whip the ingredients together
Using your whisk, whip the ingredients together until they form stiff peaks. This may take anywhere from 2-5 minutes depending on your equipment and technique.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy!
Once your vegan whipped cream is ready, serve it immediately or store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. It’s perfect for topping pies, cakes, fruit, and more!
Tips for Making Perfect Vegan Whipped Cream
Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you make vegan whipped cream:
- Use full-fat coconut milk. This will ensure that your whipped cream is thick and creamy.
- Chill your equipment. A cold mixing bowl and whisk will make your whipped cream come together more easily.
- Don’t over-whip. If you continue to whip your whipped cream past the point of stiff peaks, it will start to separate and become grainy.
- Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator. Vegan whipped cream can start to lose its texture if it sits out at room temperature for too long.
Can You Freeze Vegan Whipped Cream?
The short answer is yes, you can freeze vegan whipped cream. However, there are some things to keep in mind before you go freezing your leftovers or making a large batch ahead of time.
First, it’s important to note that the texture of vegan whipped cream may be affected once it’s frozen and thawed. This is because whipped cream relies on air and fat to create its fluffy texture, and freezing can cause the air bubbles to deflate and the fat to separate.
However, with the right techniques, you can still freeze vegan whipped cream without sacrificing too much texture or flavor. Let’s take a closer look at how to do it.
How to Freeze Vegan Whipped Cream
To freeze vegan whipped cream, follow these steps:
- Make sure the whipped cream is fully chilled before freezing. This will help it hold its shape better during freezing and thawing.
- Transfer the whipped cream to an airtight container. Make sure there’s some room at the top of the container for the whipped cream to expand as it freezes.
- Seal the container tightly and label it with the date.
- Place the container in the freezer and freeze for up to three months.
How to Thaw Vegan Whipped Cream
Thawing vegan whipped cream is just as important as freezing it. If you don’t thaw it properly, you risk ruining the texture and flavor.
Here’s how to thaw vegan whipped cream:
- Remove the container of whipped cream from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
- Once thawed, remove the container from the refrigerator and give it a good stir with a whisk or fork. This will help incorporate any separated fat and bring back some of the fluffy texture.
- Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Tips for Freezing Vegan Whipped Cream
Here are some additional tips for freezing vegan whipped cream:
- Use a stabilizer. Adding a stabilizer like agar agar or xanthan gum can help the whipped cream hold its texture better during freezing and thawing.
- Don’t over-whip. Over-whipping vegan whipped cream can cause it to become grainy or curdled, which will only be exacerbated by freezing and thawing. Stop whipping once you reach a soft peak stage.
- Use the right equipment. Use a high-speed blender or food processor to whip the cream, as this will help incorporate air and create a fluffier texture.
- Use a full-fat milk. Using a full-fat non-dairy milk like coconut milk will help create a richer and creamier texture that will hold up better during freezing and thawing.
Conclusion
Freezing vegan whipped cream is possible, but it does require some extra care and attention to ensure optimal texture and flavor. Make sure to fully chill the whipped cream before freezing, use an airtight container, and thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before using. And if you want to take things a step further, try adding a stabilizer or using a high-speed blender to create an even fluffier texture. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy vegan whipped cream anytime, anywhere.
