Last Updated on July 3, 2022
It can be hard whipping the perfect amount of cream without leftovers. So, we have made a helpful guide on what to do with leftover whipped cream.
This way, you can completely avoid wasting expensive cream. And, you no longer have to worry about having any leftovers.
Functions Of Whipped Cream
Whipped cream, as you most likely already know, is regular cream that has been whipped to form peaks. While there are varying degrees to which the cream can be whipped, all of these have a relatively similar function. The main reason the type of peaks differs is to adjust the consistency of the final product it is used in. The softer the peaks, the runnier (less stiff) the mixture will be.
If you aren’t sure how to properly whip cream, have a look at this excellent tutorial.
So, whipped cream has a few functions in baking. These functions will ultimately help guide you in determining what to do with leftover whipped cream.
The first and arguably most important function is that it gives the batter an aerated texture. This means that the air molecules trapped in the whipped cream will make the mixture more airy.
Ultimately, this results in a soft fluffy texture in any item. Whipped cream is used for mousses, creams, and set desserts for this reason. It is even sometimes incorporated into frozen desserts to help soften the texture!
Secondly, in baked goods, it is used as a leavening agent. When heated, the trapped air molecules expand and cause the item to rise.
And finally, whipped cream also provides moisture to the mixture and adds creaminess. It’s the same as adding regular cream. However, it also improves the texture as we have mentioned before.
Tips For Using Leftover Whipped Cream
- The best way to store leftover whipped cream is in an airtight container in the fridge. But, we recommend using it immediately, or at least as soon as possible.
- Whipped cream will last in the fridge for roughly 4 days if you have whipped it perfectly. Any mistakes made and the cream can separate, which is virtually impossible to get whipped again.
- We don’t recommend freezing leftover whipped cream. While it is possible, it limits how you can use it again. You won’t be able to use it in its whipped form. However, you can use it as essentially “melted” whipped cream. You can have a look here at how to freeze whipped cream.
- When you research what to do with leftover whipped cream, don’t only look at the whipped form. Remember, you are still working with a super creamy dairy product. Whipped cream can be melted back down.
What To Do With Leftover Whipped Cream
People often think your choices are limited when it comes to what to do with leftover whipped cream. However, you would be surprised how many dishes you can use it in. And, they don’t even have to be complicated or take up a ton of time!
Here are our top choices on things you can make using leftover whipped cream.
1. Ice cream
Ice cream might not be the easiest option you can make, but it is certainly one we recommend the most. Especially because you can make high-quality creamy ice cream without even churning it!
This wouldn’t be a custard-based ice cream (made with an anglaise). But rather, it is a cheat ice cream. You can simply combine whipped cream with sweetened condensed milk and some flavoring extracts. The whipped aerated cream will provide the light airy (non-icy) texture that ice cream needs!
2. Milkshake
A milkshake is one of the easiest ways to use up any leftover whipped cream. You can use the whipped cream as is or melt it down to become cream again. But, if you don’t want to add it inside the milkshake mixture, you can always use it as a decorate topping.
3. Mousse
A mousse is a fantastic option as it already requires whipped cream. This way, you essentially use leftover cream instead of whipping new ones.
Now, there are two kinds of mousses you can make – a cooked and uncooked one. The uncooked one is faster and easier, however, the cooked one is much tastier. Either way, you can decide which works best for you!
4. Hot chocolate topping
This is an easy option to use if you don’t feel like making anything. Simply add some whipped cream to the top of your hot chocolate, or use it as a dairy base in which to heat the powder.
Either way, it will elevate the drink a thousand-fold while getting rid of your leftover cream.
5. Topping for breakfast
If you can use whipped cream as a topping for a milkshake and hot chocolate, then nothing is stopping you from using it as a breakfast topping! Think about it! How many traditional breakfast food items are served with cream?
You can scones, flapjacks, crepes, and muffins. These are only a few ways you can do it. But, nothing is stopping you from serving it on your yogurt bowl, on toast with bacon, and in a fruit salad.
6. Cream pie
We are always surprised that no one thinks about cream pie as an option for what to do with leftover whipped cream. In our opinion, it is an excellent way to show off your culinary skills while also getting rid of your cream.
And, to cut out some work for you, you can use a pre-made pastry dough or pre-baked pie crust. Then, all you have to do is make a bulky creamy pie filling and allow it to set inside the fridge. Of course, if you make a custard-based pie filling, you will need to bake it first.
7. No-bake cheesecake
And finally, a no-bake cheesecake is a quick and effortless option. Most of the time is spent waiting for the cheesecake to set. Simply cream together cream cheese, sugar, and flavoring extracts. Then, fold in your whipped cream.
Pour the batter into a cheesecake crust and allow it to set in the fridge overnight.
To Conclude
We are sure that you have found some new and interesting ways for what to do with leftover whipped cream. If you have any other ideas for uses, let us know in the comments below! We would love to hear them!
FAQs
Can you freeze whipped cream after has been whipped?
You can freeze whipped cream. Place it in an airtight container and store it inside a freezer with stable temperatures. However, keep in mind that once thawed, it will never have the same consistency and texture as freshly whipped cream. So, take this into consideration when thinking about how you are using frozen and thawed whipped cream.
Can you turn whipped cream into ice cream?
It is extremely easy to turn whipped cream into ice cream. All you need to do is to fold it directly into sweetened condensed milk. Then, place it into an airtight container, add a layer of plastic film onto the surface, and freeze it. This ice cream doesn't need to be churned and will be soft.
Can whipped cream be used for cake decorating?
If it is a freshly whipped cream that is leftover from another recipe, you can immediately use it for cake decorating. It will have the best consistence. There are a lot of different frostings you can make using cream. However, it is usually used in a liquid form, not whipped. Whipped isn't always stable enough to hold its shape. The liquid form will help adjust the consistency.
How long will whipped cream hold its shape?
It depends on how much you whipped it and the type of cream you used. If you whipped the cream perfectly, it can hold its shape for up to 3 or 4 days (when kept in the fridge). However, this period shortens if your whipped cream is unstable due to under or over whipping, or fat particles in the cream.
Lindy Van Schalkwyk is a culinary specialist with a background in Advanced Cooking, Advanced Pâtisserie, Media Communications and Nutrition. She has gained invaluable experience in the culinary industry having worked in some of the top restaurants in Africa in 2016 and 2017. Her expertise in nutrition has enabled her to develop recipes for special dietary needs. In 2018, Lindy began working in the Food Media industry, focusing on recipe development, recipe writing, food writing and food styling.