Fizz up your Drinks: Cream Chargers for Cocktails
If you love cocktails, you know that the perfect drink takes much more than just a good recipe. The presentation and texture are just as important as the ingredients, and that is where whipped cream chargers come in.
Whipped cream chargers are small canisters filled with nitrous oxide (N2O) gas, which can be used to create whipped cream and other foams. When infused with cocktails, the N2O gas creates a fizzy, aerated texture that elevates the taste, feel, and look of your drink.
In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of using whipped cream chargers for cocktails, from the science behind it to the different types of chargers and cocktail recipes you can try.
Understanding Whipped Cream Chargers and N2O gas
Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s start with the basics. Whipped cream chargers are small, pressurized canisters that contain nitrous oxide (N2O) gas. When the gas is released into a whipped cream dispenser filled with heavy cream, it combines with the fat molecules to create whipped cream. This reaction happens because N2O is a soluble gas that dissolves in the fatty compounds of the cream, causing it to expand and creating the airy texture.
The same principle applies to using whipped cream chargers for cocktails. When infused with a liquid and dispensed through a whipped cream dispenser or a soda siphon, the N2O gas mixes with the liquid, creating bubbles that lend a bubbly, silky texture.
The Benefits of Whipped Cream Chargers for Cocktails
Using whipped cream chargers for cocktails has numerous benefits. Here are some of the most significant ones:
- Texture: N2O gas creates bubbles that provide a light and airy texture to cocktails and other beverages, making them seem more sophisticated and delectable than usual drinks.
- Flavor: The N2O gas enhances the drink’s taste by providing a delicate and well-balanced mouthfeel that accents the flavors of the drink.
- Presentation: Cocktails infused with N2O have a frothy and velvety look that creates an instant visual appeal and looks outstanding when garnished.
- Versatility: Whipped cream chargers can be used with a variety of liquids, not limited to just cocktail mixers. They can be used for making flavored syrups, carbonated water and other foams.
Types of Whipped Cream Chargers
Whipped cream chargers come in different sizes and shapes. Here are the most common types:
- Standard Chargers: These charger’s produce up to 8g of N2O gas and come in a 7.5cm long canister.
- Bulb-shaped Chargers: These chargers are 6.3cm long and produce up to 8g of N2O.
- Larger Chargers: These produce around 16g of N2O and are typically used in larger whipped cream dispensers or soda siphons. They come in a range of sizes and shapes, including 12cm long and not bulb-shaped.
How to Infuse Cocktails with Whipped Cream Chargers
Now that you have learned the science behind whipped cream chargers let’s move on to the exciting part – how to use them!
To use whipped cream chargers for cocktails, you need a whipped cream dispenser or a soda siphon. Here are the steps:
- Pour your cocktail mix or any other liquid into the whipped cream dispenser or soda siphon.
- Add one whipped cream charger for every 250 ml of liquid.
- Shake the dispenser or siphon for 10-15 seconds to mix the N2O gas with the liquid.
- Dispense the liquid into glasses and serve immediately.
Cocktail Recipes to Try
The possibilities with using whipped cream chargers for cocktails are endless. Here are some cocktail recipes you can try:
Bloody Mary Foam
Ingredients:
- 1 large can of peeled tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vodka
- Pickle juice
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
Instructions:
- Add the peeled tomatoes, vodka, pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder to a bowl.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture till smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a whipped cream dispenser and add one whipped cream charger.
- Shake and dispense the cocktail mix into glasses.
Tequila Sunrise Mousse
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of tequila
- 1/2 cup of orange juice
- Cranberry juice cocktail
- 1 vanilla bean
- Whipped cream
Instructions:
- Combine tequila, orange juice, and cranberry juice cocktail in a bowl.
- Split vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Mix them into the cocktail mixture with a spatula.
- Pour the mixture into a whipped cream dispenser and add one whipped cream charger.
- Shake the dispenser and dispense the mousse into cocktail glasses, adding whipped cream on top.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use whipped cream chargers for non-alcoholic drinks?
Yes, you can use whipped cream chargers for non-alcoholic drinks. You can infuse syrups and juices with N2O gas by following the same procedure as you would with any cocktail mix.
Are whipped cream chargers safe for consumption?
Yes, whipped cream chargers are safe for consumption when used as directed by the manufacturers. It is vital to use only food-grade chargers and to follow every safety precaution provided by the manufacturers.
Can I store infused cocktails in the whipped cream dispenser?
It is not recommended to store infused cocktails in the whipped cream dispenser for more than a few hours. After that, the flavor and texture of the cocktail may be affected. Serve the cocktails immediately after infusing them with N2O gas.
Can whipped cream chargers be reused?
No, whipped cream chargers are intended for one-time use and must be disposed of properly. Do not attempt to reuse or recycle them.
Where can I purchase whipped cream chargers and whipped cream dispensers?
You can purchase whipped cream chargers and whipped cream dispensers from online retailers or local kitchen supply stores. Make sure you choose a trusted brand and only purchase food-grade products.
In Conclusion
Whipped cream chargers are an easy and fun way to elevate your cocktails and beverages. Infusing cocktails with N2O gas provides them with a frothy, silky texture that not only looks beautiful but also enhances the flavor. As always, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions while experimenting with whipped cream chargers. With the variety of recipes and options available, go ahead and start fizzing up your drinks!