Vegan whipped cream, a delightful alternative to traditional toppings, offers the greatest advantages for those embracing a plant-based lifestyle. It is made from can of full-fat coconut milk or other dairy substitutes and has a light, fluffy texture.
This homemade indulgence is perfect for adorning desserts or enriching coffees, ensuring you’ll always catch the dairy version. It’s the best way to add a touch of luxury to any treat.
WHY IT WORKS?
- Incorporates a touch of vanilla extract, enhancing flavor without artificial additives.
- Achieves a perfect whip with a pinch of cream of tartar, stabilizing the mixture.
- Offers a healthier alternative, reducing saturated fats found in traditional creams.
- Allows you to customize sweetness with natural liquid sweetener, catering to all dietary preferences.
Finding the perfect topping for vegan desserts can often feel like a quest for the elusive. Many plant-based options need more texture or taste, leaving desserts needing more of that final, decadent touch. Enter the game-changer: a vegan whipped cream recipe that promises to revolutionize your baking adventures.
After numerous trials and errors, I’ve found that this homemade concoction rivals its dairy counterparts and stands tall as a healthier, guilt-free alternative.
It melds seamlessly with any dessert, offering a lush, creamy finish you will never believe is dairy-free. If you want to elevate your vegan baking, master this simple yet transformative recipe. It could very well become the most cherished tool in your culinary arsenal.
What Is Vegan Whipped Cream?
Vegan whipped cream is a plant-based alternative to traditional whipped cream for those avoiding animal products. Made from ingredients like coconut milk, almond milk, or aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas), it mirrors perfect dairy whipped cream’s light, airy texture.
This version is cholesterol-free and often lower in calories, offering a healthier topping option. Vegan whipped cream can be sweetened with sugar, maple syrup, or other vegan powdered sweetener and flavored with vanilla or other extracts.
It’s perfect for topping desserts, fruits, or beverages, providing a cruelty-free indulgence for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Quick Fact: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, is a popular base for vegan whipped cream. It whips up like egg whites, offering a light, airy texture.
Recipe Directions
- Preparation: Begin by draining the liquid from a can of chickpeas into a large bowl. Save the chickpeas for different recipes. You should have around 1/2 cup of chickpea liquid, but the exact amount isn’t critical.
- Whipping: Add the cream of tartar to the chickpea liquid. This ingredient aids in the whipping process. Start mixing with a hand mixer at medium speed. As the mixture becomes foamy, increase the speed to high. Continue to beat for about 3-4 minutes or until you achieve stiff peaks. This is the crucial step to ensure the mixture becomes fluffy.
- Flavoring: Once stiff peaks have formed, incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the bowl. Continue beating for about another minute until the mixture is fluffy and smooth.
- Serving: Serve the vegan whipped cream immediately for the best texture and taste. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of desserts, fruits, or beverages.
- Storing: Store the whipped cream in the freezer rather than the refrigerator if you have leftovers. When frozen, it has a consistency similar to that of a cool whip and better maintains its structure.
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of aquafaba for a rich, tropical flavor. Chill the can overnight, then scoop the solid cream and whip it.
- Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with water until smooth, then whip for a nutty, creamy alternative.
- Silken Tofu Whip: Blend silken tofu with sweetener and lemon juice for a protein-rich cream.
Add-Ons
- Sweeteners: Adjust sweetness using vegan sweeteners like maple, agave nectar, or date syrup.
- Flavors: For unique tastes, incorporate various extracts, such as almond, peppermint, or orange. Cocoa powder or melted chocolate can create decadent chocolate whipped cream.
- Colors: For themed desserts, natural food colors or fruit purees (like strawberry for pink or blueberry for purple) can add a vibrant touch.
Toppings
- Fruit: Fresh berries, sliced fruit, or a compote make refreshing toppings that complement the cream’s richness.
- Nuts and Seeds: Toasted nuts, coconut flakes, or chia seeds add crunch and nutritional value.
- Syrups and Sauces: Drizzle with vegan caramel, chocolate sauce, or fruit syrups for extra indulgence.
- Spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can add warmth and depth of flavor, especially in fall and winter.
Vegetable Substitutions
- Mushrooms: Their meaty texture makes mushrooms, especially portobellos, an excellent substitute for beef in burgers, steaks, and stews.
- Jackfruit: Its ability to mimic the texture of pulled pork or chicken is unparalleled, making it ideal for tacos, sandwiches, and curries.
- Cauliflower: When chopped and seasoned, cauliflower can replace chicken or beef, especially in stir-fries or as a buffalo wing alternative.
- Eggplant: With its dense, sponge-like texture, eggplant is a substitute for fish or meat in dishes like lasagna or parmesan.
- Lentils: These are a great ground meat substitute in sauces, tacos, and meatloaves, offering a hearty, protein-rich base.
- Chickpeas: Versatile and filling, chickpeas can replace chicken or tuna in salads, sandwiches, and wraps.
- Zucchini: Thinly sliced or spiralized, zucchini can stand in for pasta in lighter, gluten-free dishes.
- Sweet Potatoes: Their robust structure and sweetness make them a filling cream substitute for meat in burgers, curries, and soups.
Quick Tip: Try blending cashews soaked in water for a creamy vegan soup or sauce. They add a smooth, rich texture without dairy and enhance flavors beautifully.
Best Side Dishes
- Fruit Salad A light, refreshing choice that balances the creaminess with fresh, juicy fruits.
- Vegan Pancakes Or Waffles Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a decadent breakfast or brunch.
- Vegan Scones Serve with jam and whipped cream for a delightful afternoon tea.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse The richness of the mousse, complemented by the lightness of the whipped cream, creates a perfect dessert pairing.
- Berry Crisps Or Cobblers A spoonful of vegan whipped cream on warm, baked fruits makes for a comforting dessert.
- Vegan Pumpkin Pie A classic holiday dessert that’s elevated with a creamy whipped topping.
- Vegan Cheesecake Enhance the creamy texture of cheesecake with a light whipped cream layer.
- Grilled Peaches Or Pineapple The fruit’s charred sweetness and cool whipped cream offer a delightful contrast.
- Vegan Hot Chocolate A warm mug topped with whipped cream is cozy and indulgent.
- Vegan Key Lime Pie The tartness of the pie balanced by the sweetness of whipped cream is a match made in heaven.
How To Serve?
- Topping for Fruit: Spoon it over fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a mixed fruit bowl.
- Dessert Garnish: Add a dollop of pies, cakes, or brownies for a luxurious finish.
- Coffee or Hot Cocoa: Swirl it into your hot beverage for a creamy touch.
- Pancakes and Waffles: Spread it atop your morning stack for a sweet start to the day.
- Vegan Parfaits: Layer it with granola and fruit for a delightful snack or breakfast.
- Smoothie Bowls: A scoop on top adds texture and richness to your nutritious bowl.
- Ice Cream Sundaes: Use it as a topping for vegan ice cream, along with nuts and syrups.
- Vegan Trifles: Layer it with sponge cake and fruit for an elegant dessert.
- Mousse: Incorporate it into or atop vegan mousse recipes for extra fluffiness.
- Crepe Filling: Spread inside fluffy vegan crepes and roll up with fruit for a special treat.
Quick Tip: Try roasting your vegetables for extra flavor in vegan dishes. It brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to soups, salads, and sides.
Storage & Make Ahead
- Storage: This easy vegan whipped cream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If separation occurs, stir gently before use.
- Make Ahead: Vegan whipped cream can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for busy schedules. Simply whip up a batch and store it as directed above. This ensures a delicious, plant-based topping ready for desserts and drinks anytime.
Quick Fact: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas used in vegan regular whipped cream, has just the right protein content to mimic egg whites, making it a revolutionary vegan baking ingredient.
Time-Saving Tips
- Chill Your Tools: Chill the bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 15 minutes before whipping. Cold equipment helps aquafaba or perfect coconut milk whip faster.
- Pre-Measure Ingredients: Have all ingredients measured and ready to go. This streamlines the process and avoids interruptions.
- Use a Stand Mixer: If available, use a stand mixer with a whisk attachment. It works more efficiently than a hand mixer, saving time and effort.
- Make in Bulk: Whip a larger batch to use over several days. Vegan whipped heavy cream can be stored in the fridge or freezer, ready for quick use.
- Opt for Powdered Sugar: It dissolves more quickly than granulated sugar, ensuring a smooth texture without extra whipping time.
- Freeze in Portions: If you freeze it in individual servings or dollops on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. This way, you can thaw exactly what you need when you need it.
Vegan Whipped Cream
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Spatula
- Airtight Container (for storage)
Ingredients
- ½ cup Aquafaba (liquid from 1 can of chickpeas, low or no sodium added)
- ⅛ teaspoon Cream of tartar
- 1/2-3/4 cup Powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Drain the liquid from a can of chickpeas into a large bowl. Reserve the chickpeas for another use. Aim for about 1/2 cup of chickpea liquid; precise measurement isn’t crucial.
Whipping
- Add 1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar to the chickpea liquid. This helps stabilize the mixture during whipping.
- Begin whipping at medium speed with a hand mixer. As the liquid starts to foam, it increases to high speed.
- Whip for about 3-4 minutes or until stiff peaks form. This step is key to achieving a fluffy consistency.
Flavoring
- Gently fold the whipped mixture in 1/2 to 3/4 cup of powdered or cane sugar and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Adjust the sugar according to your taste.
- Continue beating for about one more minute until the mixture is fluffy and smooth.
Serving
- Serve the vegan whipped cream immediately for optimal texture and flavor. It’s an excellent complement to desserts, fruits, or beverages.
Storing
- If you have any leftovers, opt for freezing over refrigeration. Store in a freezer-safe container. When frozen, the whipped cream resembles a cool coconut whip, maintaining a better consistency than refrigerated.
Notes
- Aquafaba Temperature: Cold aquafaba whips better; consider chilling it before use.
- Cream of Tartar: This stabilizes the aquafaba, helping it maintain structure.
- Sugar Adjustment: Begin with less sugar, adding more to the cream tastes great for the desired sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor; opt for a high-quality, pure extract for the best taste.
- Whipping Time: May vary; look for stiff peaks to indicate readiness.
- Storage: Freezing extends shelf life and preserves texture better than refrigeration.
- Serving Suggestion: It is best served fresh but can be re-whipped if necessary after thawing.
Nutrition Table
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Vegan Whipped Cream Without A Hand Or Stand Mixer?
Yes, you can make vegan whipped cream without a mixer, but it requires more effort. Use a large whisk and a chilled mixing bowl. Whisk vigorously by hand until you achieve the desired fluffy and stiff peaks. This method takes longer and requires more physical effort, but it’s possible to achieve similar results.
How Long Does Vegan Whipped Cream Last In The Fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, vegan whipped cream can last in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. However, it may lose some of its fluffiness over time.
For best results, it’s recommended to use it within a day of making it. If you notice any separation or liquid forming, give it a quick whisk before serving.
Can I Freeze Vegan Whipped Cream?
Yes, vegan whipped cream can be frozen for up to one month. Freeze it in dollops on a baking sheet or in an airtight container. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator. Remember that the texture might change slightly, and you may need to re-whip it to restore fluffiness.
Is Vegan Whipped Cream Healthy?
Vegan whipped cream can be considered a healthier alternative to traditional dairy whipped cream, as it’s typically lower in saturated fats and cholesterol-free.
However, the healthiness depends on the ingredients used, especially the type and amount of sweetener. Using natural sweeteners or reducing their amount can make it a healthier option.
Can I Flavor Vegan Whipped Cream With Other Extracts Or Ingredients?
Absolutely! While vanilla extract is common, experiment with other extracts, such as almond, peppermint, or orange, to match your dessert.
Add cocoa powder for a chocolate version, or mix in fruit purees for a fruity twist. Ensure any added liquids are minimal to maintain the whipped cream’s structure.
