How to Make Heavy Cream (With Just Two Ingredients!)

Have you ever been in the middle of cooking a recipe only to realize you’re out of heavy cream? No worries! With just two simple ingredients—milk and butter—you can make heavy cream at home in less than 5 minutes. This homemade version won’t whip into stiff peaks like store-bought cream, but it’s a perfect substitute in most recipes!

Why Make Heavy Cream at Home?

Heavy cream is a key ingredient in so many recipes, from silky sauces to rich desserts. However, it’s not always something you have on hand. If you find yourself without heavy cream, this quick and easy homemade version will save the day!

Heavy cream is one of those ingredients I typically only buy for specific recipes, like homemade whipped cream or truffles. But it’s actually a versatile staple that can elevate everything from soups and sauces to mashed potatoes and biscuits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3/4 cup Whole milk
• 1/4 cup Butter
• Optional: 1 tsp cornstarch or flour (for a thicker texture)

How to Make Heavy Cream: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Make sure it doesn’t brown.
2. Combine with milk: Pour the melted butter into a measuring cup and slowly add the whole milk while stirring.
3. Optional thickening: If you need a thicker consistency, add a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch and whisk until smooth.

Microwave Variation:

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 20-second increments until mostly melted.
2. Whisk until smooth, then slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fully combined.
3. If separation occurs, microwave for another 5-10 seconds and whisk until smooth.

Why This Works

The fat content in the butter mimics the richness of store-bought heavy cream, giving you a nearly identical result when you’re in a pinch! Does it matter what type of milk you use or the type of butter? Yes and no. The typical fat-to-milk ratio when making homemade heavy cream is 3/4 cup of whole milk to 1/4 cup of melted butter or 25% fat. Meanwhile, in commercial heavy cream, the fat is 36%. If you use milk with less fat, it will have a different thickness and texture.

Uses for Your Homemade Heavy Cream

Here are some delicious ways to use your homemade heavy cream:

• Add to soups or gravies for extra creaminess.
• Incorporate into a sauce like Alfredo for a luxurious texture.
• Use in mashed potatoes or biscuits to enhance flavor and texture.

Note: This heavy cream substitute will not work for recipes that require whipped cream since it doesn’t have the fat content to form stiff peaks.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store homemade heavy cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days.
• Separation: If separation occurs, simply shake or stir the cream before using.
• Freezing: You can freeze homemade heavy cream, but the texture may change upon thawing. Stir well after defrosting to bring it back together.

FAQ Section

Try it Out!

Now that you know how to make heavy cream at home, you’ll never have to worry about running out again! It’s quick, easy, and works in many of your favorite recipes. Have you tried making heavy cream at home before? Let me know how it turned out, and let me know how it works for you in the comments!

Don’t forget to check out my other kitchen hacks, like how to make buttermilk or how to thicken sauces without flour.