You may have encountered two types of cream while cooking and baking. There is a huge difference between Heavy Cream and Thickened Cream. Heavy cream and thickened cream are names that are quite similar but actually differ in some ways that can affect your recipes. Heavy cream, also called heavy whipping cream, has a greater percentage of fats, around 36-40%. It’s the best when whipped into stiff peaks, which can be used for decorating cakes or making rich sauces. Thickened cream, with a lesser amount of fat percentage, is normally around 35% and contains additional thickeners such as gelatin or gums for thickening consistency.
These thickeners make it retain the form it is poured into in recipes like soups or custards without needing to be beaten. The distinction is key and matters if you are serious about making things the best they can be when you cook because the quality of the cream you use is going to determine the consistency and flavor of your product.
Main Difference Between Heavy Cream and Thickened Cream
Heavy cream can be used in beverages such as coffee and lattes to give them a richer taste. Thickened cream is sometimes used but does not blend as well. Heavy cream can tolerate higher temperatures without separating or curdling. Thickened cream may break or separate if heated to extremely high temperatures. In some places, thickened cream may be referred to as “whipping cream,” but it doesn’t compare in texture or performance to real heavy cream. Heavy cream is used in more diverse recipes, from savory to sweet, whereas thickened cream is more often reserved for particular dishes such as gravies or simple desserts.
Heavy Cream Vs. Thickened Cream
What is Heavy Cream?
Heavy cream, also known as heavy whipping cream, is a dairy product extracted from the high-fat layer that floats to the top of fresh milk. It holds between 36% to 40% milk fat, which means it is much richer and thicker than regular milk. Usually, this cream is extracted from milk during the milk processing process.
Heavy cream is used in most recipes in cooking and baking because of its ability to add a creamy texture and rich flavor to dishes. It is often whipped to create whipped cream for desserts, but it can also be used in savory dishes like soups, sauces, and curries to make them smoother and more luxurious. Unlike lighter creams, half-and-half or light cream, heavy cream can be whipped to hold its shape. Thus, it is great for topping pies, cakes, or even coffee.
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Nutrition-wise, heavy cream is calorie-dense because of its high-fat content. One tablespoon of heavy cream contains around 52 calories, with about 5.5 grams of fat, including 3.5 grams of saturated fat. It also contains small amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins A, D, and E. Though rich, heavy cream may offer essential nutrients in moderation. Due to its high calorie and fat content, it must be consumed in balance.
Heavy cream is a common ingredient in most kitchens as it is used in various recipes that require a smooth and creamy consistency. But it is not always the healthiest option if you are counting calories or fat, so it should be used in moderation.
What is Thickened Cream?
Thickened cream is a cream that has been processed to have a thicker consistency than regular cream. It is made by adding a thickening agent, such as gelatin, cornstarch, or vegetable gums, to regular cream. This results in cream that forms better and doesn’t tend to separate as readily when used in cooking or baking.
Thickened cream usually has about 35% to 40% fat content, essentially similar to heavy cream, but the thickeners have provided a more stable texture. It is a common ingredient in desserts such as mousses, cakes, and puddings, as well as in savory dishes were a rich, thick cream is needed for texture and flavor.
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From a nutritional standpoint, heavy cream and thickened cream are similar because they have a high-fat content. Thickened cream has about 50 to 55 calories in one tablespoon, along with 5 grams of fat, out of which approximately 3.5 grams are saturated fat. It is calorie-rich and thus must be consumed in small amounts, at least by those who do not take excess fat in their diet.
The thickening agents used in this cream do not change the nutritional value significantly, but they make the cream maintain a smoother texture that is easier to work with in recipes. As with heavy cream, thickened cream contains small amounts of protein and vitamins, but because it is rich, it is best enjoyed in small portions as part of a balanced diet.
Comparison Table “Heavy Cream Vs. Thickened Cream”
| Fat Content | 36% or higher | 35% or lower |
| Consistency | Thicker, richer | Slightly thicker but not as rich |
| Usage | For whipping, cooking, and baking | For cooking, not ideal for whipping |
| Taste | Rich and creamy | Mild, less rich |
| Whipping Ability | Whips well | Does not whip as well |
| Common Uses | Desserts, sauces, soups, drinks | Sauces, soups, casseroles |
| Additives | No additives | Contains added thickening agents |
| Heat Tolerance | Good for high-heat cooking | Can separate with high heat |
| Shelf Life | Longer if unopened | Shorter shelf life once opened |
| Appearance | Smooth and glossy | Slightly more opaque |
| Versatility | More versatile in recipes | Mostly for cooking |
| Stability | Stable when whipped | Less stable in whipped form |
| Market Availability | Common in most stores | Mostly found in Australia/New Zealand |
| Texture in Sauces | Smooth and creamy | May feel a bit less smooth |
| Can Be Used in Coffee | Yes, for a creamy texture | Yes, but less rich |
| Price | Generally more expensive | More affordable |
| Shelf Storage | Needs refrigeration for longer shelf life | Requires refrigeration, shorter shelf life |
Difference Between Heavy Cream and Thickened Cream in Detail
Get to know the Difference Between Heavy Cream Vs. Thickened Cream in Detail.
Milk Fat Content
Heavy cream has more fat than thickened cream. Generally, the fat content of heavy cream falls between 36% and 40% of milk fat. This makes heavy cream creamy and smooth. Its higher percentage of fats makes it ideal for whipping; it produces a firmer peak that will stay erect for a longer period of time.
On the other hand, thickened cream contains roughly about 35% of fats. This is rich too, but a bit less than heavy cream. This difference in fats changes its whipping ability. Thickened cream can still be used for most recipes, but the results might not be as stable as heavy cream.
Whipping Ability
Heavy cream whips far better than thickened cream does. The former contains a higher fat content, which makes it very suitable for whipping. It can retain its shape and form fluffiness when whipped. Hence, it is usually utilized to make whipped cream or any recipe requiring thick and airy cream.
Thickened cream can be whipped but may not to the same stiffness as the heavy cream. It has a low-fat content, so it doesn’t hold peaks as well. The texture is something to look at when choosing cream to set desserts.
Texture
Heavy cream has a very rich and smooth consistency. Its high-fat content makes it pourable but still very thick. This thick texture is ideal for sauces, soups, or any recipe requiring a creamy consistency that won’t break down over time.
Thickened cream, however, has additional thickeners in the form of gelatin or guar gum. That makes it slightly thicker, hence making it more liquid when poured and less stable at room temperature. Though thicker than cream, it does not feel or look rich or luxurious compared to heavy cream.
Preparation for Use in Cooking and Baking
Heavy cream is incredibly versatile in cooking and baking. It’s used in savory dishes like creamy sauces, soups, and gravies, where it adds depth and richness. It’s also a key ingredient in many desserts, like mousses, custards, and ice creams, due to its ability to create a smooth texture.
Thickened cream is also sometimes used in desserts, particularly in those recipes that call for a slight thickening. It is good for use in custards, pies, or anything else that requires a cream to have more stability. In some recipes that require the lighter whipped texture, though, it will not work as well as heavy cream will.
Stability
Because of a higher fat content, heavy cream is more stable for longer periods, especially if it’s whipped. This would help keep the structure for a longer period; it’s useful in decorating cakes or as a topping on desserts. Even if subjected to heat, heavy cream tends to hold its form without breaking or separating.
Thickened cream, with thickeners added, can be relatively stable under certain conditions but not as stable under heat. Sometimes, it breaks down under high heat or too much mixing to become a bit lumpy instead of smooth. It is good for non-cooking purposes or dishes that will not be exposed to high heat.
Shelf Life
Heavy cream tends to have a shorter shelf life than thickened cream because of its higher fat content. Heavy cream can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days in the refrigerator after it has been opened, depending on the brand and storage conditions. Over time, it may change in texture and begin to separate.
Thickened cream usually lasts longer, as it contains stabilizers added to it. The cream remains fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks after opening. The added thickening agents prevent the cream from separating and help it maintain its consistency for a longer period.
Price and Availability
Heavy cream is usually more expensive than thickened cream, mainly because of its higher fat content and richer texture. It’s a premium product, considering how versatile it is and how well it works in recipes that require whipping or a smooth, luxurious texture.
Thickened cream is more affordable and available. It is usually sold as a more practical option for everyday cooking and baking. Though it is less expensive, it still has a creamy texture, but a bit more processing is involved in achieving its thicker consistency.
Key Difference Between Heavy Cream and Thickened Cream
Here are the key points showing the Difference Between Heavy Cream Vs. Thickened Cream.
Fat Content
Heavy cream has a higher fat content, typically around 36-40%, while thickened cream has slightly less fat, about 35%.
Consistency
Heavy cream is thicker and creamier due to its higher fat content. Thickened cream is a little lighter in texture and can be a bit runnier.
Whipping Ability
Heavy cream whips better and holds its shape longer than thickened cream, which tends to be less stable when whipped.
Use in Cooking
Heavy cream is preferred for rich sauces, soups, and desserts because of its ability to create smooth textures. Thickened cream is better for lighter dishes.
Texture
Heavy cream has a smooth, velvety texture. Thickened cream may feel slightly less rich and creamy but still smooth.
Common Usage
Heavy cream is often used in gourmet recipes, ice creams, and baking, while thickened cream is used in everyday cooking, like in coffee or simple desserts.
Price
Heavy cream is usually more expensive than thickened cream due to its higher fat content and versatility.
Shelf Life
Heavy cream has a shorter shelf life and needs to be used faster after opening. Thickened cream can last a bit longer.
Health Impact
Because of its higher fat, heavy cream can be less healthy than thickened cream for those watching their calorie intake.
Consistency After Refrigeration
Heavy cream stays thick and rich even after being refrigerated. Thickened cream may thin out when chilled.
Sweetening
Heavy cream is often sweetened for desserts, while thickened cream is usually already slightly sweetened in some brands.
Storage
Heavy cream needs to be stored in the coldest part of the fridge to maintain its quality. Thickened cream can be stored in the fridge but may last a bit longer without changing consistency.
FAQs: Heavy Cream Vs. Thickened Cream
Conclusion
Heavy cream is best used when you want something rich and whip-able to a fluffy texture due to its high-fat content. Thickened cream, containing added thickeners, would be best for recipes in which you want a stable, creamy texture without needing to whip it.
Based on the type of food you’re preparing, understanding these differences will enable you to make the proper choice between these two types of cream to accomplish the outcome you want. So the next time you are at the grocery store or cooking up a storm, remember to check the labels and choose the cream that best fits your needs! Heavy cream holds up better in hot dishes and doesn’t curdle as easily as thickened cream when heated. So, now you understand the difference between Heavy Cream and Thickened Cream.
References & External Links
- Is heavy cream the same thing as whipping cream?
- Is thickened cream the same as heavy whipping cream?
