Cool Whip vs. Whipped Cream
Cool Whip vs. Whipped Cream, which one do you choose? There are many similarities and differences between whipped cream and Cool Whip. Both are delicious whipped toppings that can be used in a variety of ways.
Below we will explore the various ways that both of these whipped toppings can be used, the ingredients that go into both, and how you can make homemade versions of each. Be sure to check out the details that follow!
Cool Whip Vs Whipped Cream: Which One Is Right For You?
Ever wonder what the difference between Cool Whip and whipped cream really is? Below we are going to go into detail and help you discover what Cool Whip really is and compare it with real whipped cream.
We hope that by the time you finish reading, you will learn all you need to know about whipped cream and be able to determine which one is the right choice for you. Let’s jump into Cool Whip vs. Whipped Cream!
Cool Whip and Whipped Cream Similarities
Whipped Cream and Cool Whip have very similar uses, and they sometimes even look the same.
Both are called whipped toppings, which are often used on top of desserts, pies, or even in some recipes.
Cool Whip and whipped cream are dairy products and contain a variety of milk or cream.
Cool Whip and Whipped Cream Differences
Cool Whip and whipped cream are also different in a few ways. Whipped cream is best enjoyed fresh, or from a can such as Reddi whip.
On the other hand, Cool Whip is often frozen until it is ready to be used. While both have their purposes, some of these purposes overlap, yet others are quite different.
Whipped cream is made primarily from milk with a few other ingredients, whereas Cool Whip contains dairy products, but also includes many other ingredients making it last much longer than whipped cream.
Let’s first begin by taking an in-depth look at cool whip, and all that goes into it. Then we will take a close look at whipped cream.
What is Cool Whip?
What Is Cool Whip? How Is Cool Whip Made?
Cool Whip is a type of frozen whipped topping that can be found in the freezer section of your local grocery store. The name Cool Whip is a brand of frozen whipped topping, which is made by Kraft Heinz Food Company. You can find Cool Whip in the name brand, or by other brands labeled as a whipped topping in the frozen isles.
Cool Whip Texture
The texture of Cool Whip is light and fluffy. It is quite airy and has a light flavor to it. Think of clouds and marshmallow fluff. These are similar to the texture of Cool Whip.
Cool Whip Ingredients
According to the label, Cool Whip contains the following ingredients: Water, Corn Syrup, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Skim Milk, Contains Less Than 2% Of Light Cream, Sodium Caseinate (From Milk), Natural And Artificial Flavor, Xanthan And Guar Gums, Modified Food Starch, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Monostearate, Sodium Polyphosphate, Beta Carotene (Color). (Source: Cool Whip Listed Ingredients on container)
Cool Whip Calories
According to the Cool Whip label, 2 tablespoons of Cool Whip, contains 25 calories.
Is Cool Whip Keto?
No, Cool Whip is not keto friendly. The keto diet is low-carb focused, and Cool Whip does not fit into that diet plan very well. In some cases, small amounts of Cool Whip are allowed, but not highly recommended.
Is Cool Whip Vegan?
No, Cool Whip is not vegan, because it contains dairy products. This obviously makes it not qualified as a vegan food.
However, if you are looking for a vegan alternative, there are other whipped toppings made from milk alternative products.
Is Cool Whip Dairy Free?
No, Cool Whip states right on its label that it contains milk. This makes it not dairy free.
However, if you are looking for Cool Whip alternatives, there are other types of whipped topping available on the market that is dairy free because they are made from milk alternatives.
Is Cool Whip Gluten Free?
Although Kraft, the makers of Cool Whip, do not give it a specific gluten-free label, Cool Whip does not directly contain any glutinous ingredients, making it gluten-free.
However, because Kraft has not certified that it is a gluten-free product, it could be processed at a facility where there is gluten.
Because of this, if you have a severe gluten intolerance, it might be wise to steer clear of it. However, if you do not have a strong sensitivity to gluten, there is no specific glutenous ingredient in this product.
How Long Does Cool Whip Last?
How long Cool Whip last depends on how it is stored. If unopen Cool Whip is kept in the fridge, it will likely last between one and two weeks. However, once it is open it will likely last between 7 to 10 days in the fridge.
Frozen Cool Whip on the other hand will last much longer. As long as your Cool Whip is still sealed, it would likely last up to three or even four months in the freezer.
Is Cool Whip real cream?
Although Cool Whip is a delicious whipped topping, it is not real cream. As we mentioned previously, Cool Whip does contain milk products, but it is not the real deal.
Easy DIY Cool Whip
You can also make homemade Cool Whip if you wish. Although it’s hard to beat the price of generic whip topping, you can use this recipe in a pinch if needed.
How to Make This Cool Whip Substitute
Add approximately ½ cup of cold water into a small pan. Add a packet of unflavored gelatin, and allow it to soak into your water for five minutes.
Once dissolved place your saucepan over medium heat, and stir to dissolve the gelatin the rest of the way.
Heat the water until it is warm, but not boiling. You should be good to see the evidence that it is about to boil.
Remove the mixture from your burner and allow it to cool completely, but not so much that it solidifies.
In a mixing bowl add your heavy cream, and whisk on high until stiff peaks begin to form. Be sure to keep a close eye on the cream as it is mixed so that it does not turn into butter.
Once it’s stiff, add powdered sugar, and vanilla. Whisk just until combined.
Now, take the cold water in the gelatin mixture. With your mixer at the lowest possible speed whisk the cooled gelatin mixture into your prepared whipped cream.
As soon as it is mixed, turn off the mixer. Store your homemade cool whip in the fridge until you are ready to serve.
There you have a homemade cool whip. Now, let’s turn our attention to whipped cream.
What is Whipped Cream?
What Is Whipped Cream? How Is Whipped Cream Made?
Whipped cream is similar to Cool Whip but without all of the added ingredients. Whipped cream is made primarily from cream and usually only contains one or two other ingredients.
Typically, you can find cream to make your own homemade whipped cream very easily, or you can buy a can of Reddi whip, which is also a version of whipped cream.
Homemade Whipped Cream
Homemade whipped cream is by far the best-tasting whipped topping. Although this is simply our opinion, it’s what we think. You may have a different opinion and prefer a different type of whipped topping.
Homemade whipped cream is usually made using heavy cream, then sweetened with powdered sugar, and flavored with vanilla extract. Although there are different variations of making your own homemade whipped cream, this is the most common and straightforward.
Homemade Whipped Cream Ingredients
To make homemade whipped cream, all you need is heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. It’s quite simple and straightforward to make your own whipped cream. The key is to not whip your cream too long so that it turns into butter.
Homemade Whipped Cream Texture
Homemade whipped cream is usually fluffy, yet at the same time thick and dense with amazing texture and flavor. It is not quite as light and fluffy as Cool Whip is, but still quite fluffy and absolutely delicious.
Reddi Wip
Redi whip is a type of whipped cream that you can purchase in a can from your local grocery store. Their claim to fame is that it is a whipped topping made with real cream.
Buying a can of Reddi Whip is often easier than making your own homemade whipped cream but does not contain quite as good of a flavor. Plus, there are other ingredients that they have to include in the can of Reddi Whip in order for it to do its thing and have a shelf life.
Reddi Whip Ingredients
According to the label on the original can of Reddi Whip, it includes the following ingredients: cream, water, sugar, corn syrup, nonfat milk, less than 2% of mono – and diglycerides, natural flavor, and carrageenan. In order to make the canned squirt, it uses nitrous oxide. (Source: Ingredient label on Original Reddi Whip can)
Reddi Whip Taste and Texture
Reddi Whip is very similar to homemade whipped cream. When you enjoy a bit of Reddi Whip, you can tell that it definitely contains cream and tasty flavorings. The texture of Reddi Whip is light and fluffy.
Stabilized Whipped Cream
Stabilized whipped cream can be made in a variety of ways, or you can even purchase a version of whipped topping from grocery stores. Primarily it is made with a base of heavy whipping cream and sweetened with powdered sugar or confectioner’s sugar, then flavored with an extract.
To make it stabilized, often times other ingredients are added to the whipped cream to help it last longer. Ingredients such as cream cheese or gelatin are often called for to help it hold its shape longer.
Stabilized Whipped Cream with Cream Cheese
One of the ways to stabilize whipped cream is by using cream cheese. Typically, when you are making stabilized whipped cream with cream cheese, it will be used as a frosting or to top other delicious baked goods.
To make stabilized whipped cream with cream cheese, you will need soft cream cheese, a cup of powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and approximately 2 cups of heavy cream.
To make your stabilized whipped cream, begin by adding a softened block of cream cheese along with powdered sugar into your mixing bowl.
Beat with your mixer on high for approximately one minute or until it becomes creamy and stiff peaks begin to form. Once this happens, set the mixture aside.
In a clean bowl, add heavy cream. Whisk on high, until stiff peaks begin to form. Be careful to not over-whisk and make butter. You want to begin to see stiff peaks form, add in the vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
Now, and medium speed, continue whisking the mixture as you carefully add the cream cheese mixture. Continue with whisking until combined. Use as desired.
Stabilized Whipped Cream Recipe without Gelatin
But what happens if you want to make stabilized whipped cream without gelatin or cream cheese? Never fear, there are a few other options for stabilized whipped cream you can make without using gelatin or cream cheese.
There are a few alternatives to make stabilized whipped cream, in addition to one cup of heavy cream. You could use a tablespoon of instant vanilla pudding or custard mix. Because you’re using vanilla-flavored pudding, there is no need to add additional vanilla extract.
Another alternative when making stabilized whipped cream is to use agar agar powder. For this recipe, you would want to use 1 cup heavy cream, 2 Tbsp powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp agar agar powder.
Ways to Use your Stabilized Whipped Cream
If you are looking for delicious ways to use your stabilized whipped cream, it is delicious to be used as a topping on your baked goods, such as on cakes, or cupcakes, or even as a dip for your fruit.
Sugar Free Whipped Cream
Whatever the reason you might need to make sugar-free whipped cream, there are several options available. In addition to heavy cream and vanilla extract, there are a few different types of sweeteners you can use as well.
In addition to one cup of heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, some different sweetener options include; Swerve Confectioners Sweetener, powdered erythritol, powdered allulose, powdered monk fruit, or stevia.
Is Whipped Cream Vegetarian?
Even though whipped cream does not contain meat, it does contain milk products, most likely making it not fit into most vegetarian diets.
Is Whipped Cream Vegan?
No, whipped cream is not vegan because it is primarily made from heavy cream, which is a dairy product and comes from cows.
How Long Does Fresh Whipped Cream Last?
If you are fresh whipped cream is made using powdered sugar, it will likely last between one and two days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
However, if your homemade whipped cream is stabilized, it will likely last longer, even as long as up to four days in the fridge.
What is the Difference Between Cool Whip and Whipped Cream
The main difference between Cool Whip and whipped cream is that whipped cream is made primarily from heavy cream, as well as one or two other ingredients, Cool Whip contains milk, but is primarily made from other ingredients.
Is Whipped Topping the Same as Whipped Cream?
No, whipped topping is not necessarily the same as whipped cream. Because Cool Whip is a brand name, produced by Kraft foods, whipped topping is often a name used by other brands to refer to the same product as Cool Whip. Whipped cream is mostly made from cream.
How to Make a Substitute for Whipped Topping
There are many substitutes you can enjoy for whipped topping. Whipped topping is a type of Cool Whip, that generically refers to any brand of this food.
A good substitute for whipped topping is always homemade whipped cream, you just can’t beat it.
Tips for Making a Whipped Topping Substitute
How do you keep whipped cream from melting? In order to keep whipped cream from melting, first be sure that it is whipped until stiff peaks begin to form.
Then sweeten your whipped cream with powdered sugar or confectioner’s sugar. This will help it hold its shape much longer than granulated sugar.
Once it is prepared, serve it right away or store it in the fridge in an airtight container until you are ready to serve. This will help prevent your whipped cream from melting.
What is the healthiest whipped topping? As far as the healthiest type of whipped topping, it depends on what specifically you are looking at.
If you are simply looking at calories and fat content, then Cool Whip or another brand of whipped topping is going to be considered healthier.
However, if you’d like more natural foods, ones that don’t contain all of the chemicals, then homemade whipped cream is going to be the winner.
What are other whipped topping substitutes? In addition to Cool Whip and homemade whipped cream, you can buy generic whipped topping in the freezer section of your grocery store as well.
You can also pick up a can of Reddi Whip, as a whipped topping substitute. You can also use other types of milk substitutes to make a version of homemade whipped cream, that does not contain dairy.
FAQs
Can I Substitute Cool Whip and Whipped Cream?
What you are making, will depend on if you can substitute whipped cream for Cool Whip, or Cool Whip for whipped cream. Some things that are very easy to swap them out for the other, and other things will not turn out if substituted.
For example, as a topping, Cool Whip and whipped cream can easily be substituted for one another. However, if you are using Cool Whip or whipped cream in a recipe to make another dish, it is going to be harder to substitute one for the other.
Is whipped cream and Cool Whip the same thing?
No, whipped cream and Cool Whip are not the same things. Both contain milk products, but one is primarily made with cream, and the other one is primarily made with other ingredients but also contains milk.
What is the difference between Cool Whip and whipped cream?
The main difference between Cool Whip and whipped cream is that Cool Whip is made with many ingredients including milk, but whipped cream is made primarily from heavy cream.
Whipped cream often only lasts a few days, whereas Cool Whip can last longer in the fridge, and even longer in the freezer.
These two whipped toppings can be used in various ways as well. Some are used in the same ways, while others are used in very different ways.
Do you prefer Cool Whip or whipped cream? Why?
It depends on what I am searching for, as to whether I prefer Cool Whip or whipped cream. To make dishes containing a whipped ingredient, I usually prefer to use Cool Whip because it’s easy, last longer, and is relatively inexpensive.
As a topping, however, I will go for whipped cream every time. No matter if it’s a topping for hot chocolate, coffee, ice cream, or pretty much anything else, whipped cream is my preference.
What’s the difference between Heavy cream and Whipping cream
Essentially heavy cream and whipping cream are the same things. Both must contain at least 36% fat to be labeled as they are according to the FDA.
The confusion with the two names comes because these very similar products are so sold by different manufacturers, creating confusion as to what the differences are.
Please know that there really is no difference, and both can be used interchangeably.
Whipped Cream Recipe
Whipped Cream Ingredients
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
How to make homemade whipped cream
To make easy yet fabulous homemade whipped cream, begin by adding your heavy cream into the mixing bowl of your stand mixer. (If you do not have a stand mixer you can use a hand one, but it will take a bit longer).
Add the whisk attachment and whisk the heavy cream on high until you begin to see stiff peaks form. Once the stiff peaks begin to form, turn the mixer off.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Whisk on low speed until the powdered sugar and vanilla extract are combined. Once combined, serve right away, and enjoy!
Top Tips
Use Wisk Attachment. Using the whisk attachment on your stand mixer will help your whipped cream to turn out just right, and will make it fast. We do not recommend using your regular beater for making whipped cream.
Keep a Close Eye On It. When you’re making homemade whipped cream, it is very important that you keep a close eye on the heavy cream as it is being whisked. It is very easy for you to over-mix your cream, and end up with butter, rather than whipped cream.
Storage
As soon as your homemade whipped cream is prepared, we recommend adding it to your dish right away. If there happens to be any leftover whipped cream, it should be stored in an airtight container and placed in the fridge. Please note that it will likely only hold it shape for one or two days.
How do cool whip and whipped cream differ? Are they the same?
Cool Whip and whipped cream are quite different in several ways.
First, you will find Cool Whip in the freezer section of your grocery store. It can be kept in the freezer until you’re ready to use, then it should be thawed out.
You can use Cool Whip as an ingredient in other dishes, or you can use it as a topping. Cool Whip is made using many ingredients, including, but not limited to milk.
There are many ingredients that create the delicious whipped topping that is known as Cool Whip.
Whipped cream on the other hand is primarily made from cream. You can make your own homemade whipped cream using heavy cream and a couple of other ingredients, or you can buy a can of Reddi Whip from the grocery store.
The primary use of whipped cream is as a topping for various foods. It is not often used as an ingredient to include in other recipes. Whipped cream typically does not have a long shelf life, especially if it is homemade.
Which is better: Cool Whip or whipped cream?
Determining whether Cool Whip vs. Whipped Cream is better, is entirely up to your preference, and how you are trying to use the whipped topping.
Sometimes Cool Whip works better, especially if it has been included in a recipe, whereas other times whipped cream is better if it is simply being used as a topping. The choice is entirely up to you.
Whipping Cream vs. Cool Whip
There are many similarities and differences between whipped cream and Cool Whip. Depending upon what you are wanting to do with the whipped topping, may determine which one you choose.
Now that you know all about Cool Whip vs whipped cream, it’s up to you to decide which one you prefer.
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