Different Types of Creams

I had this recipe for vanilla frosting:

• 1/2 c. butter/margarine
• 3 c. sifted confectioner’s sugar
• 4 T. cream
• 1.5 t. vanilla extract

I didn’t have any cream, so I tried to buy some next time I’m at the store. I was very much distressed, as I could only find whipping cream, not just cream. Of course, the grocery store attendants are of no assistance, as the only cream they know of is half and half.

After some googling, I found a reference that outlines some of the different types of creams and for what they can be used. Apparently, when a recipe says “cream”, it can be open for interpretation. Creams vary based on the percentage of milk fat the cream contains.

Creams are usually broken down into the following:

Half & Half

10-18% milk fat

Light Cream

15-20% milk fat (similar to half & half

Whipping Cream

30% milk fat

Heavy Whipping Cream

36-40% milk fat

For use in a frosting, whipping cream or heavy whipping cream works out best.

(see AFoodExperience and Hormel for more information)