Name: Classic Vanilla Whipped Cream in Just 5 Minutes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream (cold); 3 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste); 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Classic vanilla whipped cream is a simple, versatile topping that enhances any dessert with its light and fluffy texture. Ready in just five minutes, it brings a sweet and creamy touch to treats like pies, cakes, and fresh fruit.

A clear glass jar filled with a thick layer of smooth, creamy white whipped cream, piled high in soft, swirled peaks reaching above the jar's rim. In the foreground, two fresh strawberries with bright red, textured skin and green leaves rest on a white marbled surface, adding a pop of color and freshness. The whipped cream has a light, fluffy texture and looks rich and inviting. The background is softly blurred to focus on the jar and strawberries, creating a simple and clean scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream (cold)
3 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)

1 tsp vanilla extract (pure)

Instructions

Step 1: Chill your mixer bowl for 5-10 minutes to help the cream whip faster and achieve fluffy peaks.

Step 2: Pour 1 cup of cold heavy cream into the chilled bowl, ready for whipping.
Step 3: Add 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar and whip on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the cream starts to thicken and looks creamy.

Step 4: Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to infuse the whipped cream with flavor.
Step 5: Increase to medium-high speed and whip for 1 to 1.5 minutes more until medium peaks form—soft but stable peaks are ideal.
Step 6: Use immediately to top desserts, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 12 hours.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try substituting half of the powdered sugar with a bit of maple syrup or honey.
If you prefer a stiffer whipped cream, whip a little longer but watch carefully to avoid turning it into butter.
Add a small pinch of salt to balance sweetness and enhance the vanilla flavor.

Storage

Store whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. Before using, give it a gentle whisk to revive its fluffy texture. Avoid freezing as it can affect consistency.

How to Serve

This image shows a small clear glass jar filled with soft, fluffy white whipped cream that forms thick swirls and peaks rising above the rim of the jar. The whipped cream has a smooth, creamy texture with gentle shadows highlighting its airy folds. Around the jar, there are three fresh strawberries with bright red skin and green leafy tops, sitting on a white marbled surface. The overall look is clean and simple, focusing on the cream's light texture and the strawberries' vibrant color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?

Powdered sugar dissolves more easily, giving a smooth texture. Using regular sugar might result in a grainy whipped cream, but you can pulse it in a blender to make it finer.

How do I know when whipped cream has reached the right consistency?

Look for medium peaks that hold their shape but still have a soft tip when you lift the whisk. Avoid over-whipping to prevent it from turning grainy or turning into butter.