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Learning how to make whipped cream at home is one of those simple kitchen skills that instantly upgrades any dessert. This sweetened, fluffy topping — also known as Chantilly cream — tastes fresher, richer, and better than anything from a can.
Serve a dollop on Strawberry Pie or Peach Pie for the perfect finishing touch!
Why you’ll love this homemade whipped cream recipe!
Making whipped cream is one of those basic cooking skills that pay off big time. Not only does it taste better than the kind you squirt out of a can, it will also save you money when you know how to make whipped cream at home. And it’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along!
- Light and fluffy: Whips up into soft, airy peaks that melt beautifully into pies, cakes, and fresh fruit.
- Perfectly sweet: Just enough powdered sugar to enhance the flavor without overpowering your dessert.
- Made with just 3 ingredients: Heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla — simple pantry staples.
- Ready in about 5 minutes: A quick mix with a hand mixer is all it takes.
- Better than store-bought: Fresher flavor, richer texture, and no artificial aftertaste or propellants.
You may sometimes see whipped cream referred to as chantilly cream, and the two are pretty much interchangeable. Chantilly cream is whipped cream that is sweetened and flavored with vanilla. The name comes from the French term for this recipe, creme Chantilly, since whipped cream originated in the town of Chantilly in France.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You Need
You only need 3 ingredients to make the perfect whipped cream!
The complete ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
- Heavy cream – The cream should be very cold; don’t take it out of the refrigerator until you’re ready to start the recipe.
- Vanilla extract – Adds classic flavor.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens and helps stabilize the cream. Also called confectioners’ sugar. Do not use granulated sugar for fresh whipped cream.
How to Make Whipped Cream Cream at Home
This is one of the easiest things to make at home. And it’s the perfect topping for your favorite dessert!
- Combine: Add the cold heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar to a large mixing bowl.
- Whip: Use an electric hand mixer to whip the cream. (If you have a stand mixer, you can use that with the whisk attachment.)
- Look for soft peaks: It should take about 4 to 5 minutes
- Store: Cover the bowl and refrigerate until you’re ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
You can use this homemade Chantilly cream as a filling for layer cakes, as a frosting, as a topping for pies and tarts (try it with Cherry Pie in the summer or Pumpkin Pie in the fall!), or pair it with fresh berries for a simple summer dessert. I even use it for topping these Pancake Mix Funnel Cakes!
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the coldest part of the fridge for 2–3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using and gently re-whip if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whipped cream can be sweetened or unsweetened. Chantilly cream specifically refers to sweetened whipped cream flavored with vanilla.
Use very cold cream, a chilled bowl, and cold beaters to speed up the whipping process.
Yes. Whipping cream or heavy whipping cream both work well for homemade whipped cream.
Soft peaks will gently fold over when the beater is lifted. Stiff peaks will stand upright.
More How-To Guides
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How to Make Whipped Cream
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
- Add vanilla extract to a large mixing bowl along with the cream and sugar. Whip until soft peaks form, about 4-5 minutes.
- Cover and refrigerate until needed.
Notes
- Use cream straight from the refrigerator.
- Chill bowl and beaters before whipping.
- Beat just until peaks form — don’t overmix.
- Add powdered sugar gradually for smooth blending.
- For piping, whip to stiff peaks.
This is my go-to homemade whipped cream recipe!