Lactose-Free Luxury: Enjoying Whipped Cream without Dairy
Indulging in a rich, creamy dollop of whipped cream is the perfect way to top off desserts, hot cocoa, or coffee drinks. But what if you’re lactose intolerant or vegan? Luckily, there are several ways to enjoy the sumptuous flavor and texture of whipped cream, even without dairy. In this article, we’ll explore the various ways to enjoy lactose-free luxury and savor the velvety smoothness of whipped cream.
The Science behind Whipped Cream
Before we launch into the alternatives to traditional whipped cream, let’s briefly examine what makes whipped cream so special. Whipped cream is made by whipping heavy cream until it thickens and takes on a light and airy texture. This is possible because heavy cream is rich in fat and contains emulsifiers that help stabilise air bubbles created by whipping. However, lactose intolerant individuals are unable to digest lactose, which is found in milk and dairy products. This can result in digestive issues such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.
Non-Dairy Whipped Cream Alternatives
Don’t despair if you’re lactose intolerant or vegan. There are several non-dairy alternatives to traditional whipped cream that are just as delicious and creamy. Here are some of the most popular options:
Coconut Whipped Cream
Made by refrigerating coconut cream overnight, scooping out the solid cream, and whipping it like traditional cream, coconut whipped cream is a popular vegan alternative to dairy cream. Coconut cream is high in fat, giving it a similar texture to heavy cream. In fact, it’s so rich and luscious that you won’t even be able to tell the difference between coconut whipped cream and dairy whipped cream.
Soy Whipped Cream
Soy whipped cream is another popular non-dairy alternative. Made from soy milk, the cream can be whipped to perfection and used as a substitute for dairy whipped cream. The texture is slightly lighter and frothier, but still packs a good punch of flavour.
Almond Milk Whipped Cream
If you’re looking for a light and airy whipped cream, almond milk whipped cream is your best bet. Made by blending almond milk with sugar and cornstarch, almond milk whipped cream has a slightly nutty flavor and a fluffy texture, perfect for topping on fresh berries.
Cashew Cream
Cashew cream is a versatile non-dairy alternative to whipped cream that can be used for anything from dessert toppings to creamy pasta sauces. Made by soaking and blending cashews, cashew cream is typically thicker and richer than some of the other non-dairy whipped cream alternatives.
Oat Milk Whipped Cream
Thick and creamy Oat milk has become a fast favourite among vegan whipped cream enthusiasts. It has a higher fat content than other nut-based milks, making it a perfect base for fluffy, whipped cream.
How to Make Your Own Vegan Whipped Cream
Now that you’ve discovered the range of non-dairy whipped cream alternatives, you may want to make your own vegan whipped cream. Here’s a quick overview of how to do it.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 can coconut cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Chill the coconut cream in the fridge overnight or until it is firm
- Scoop out the solid cream from the can into a mixing bowl
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream until it becomes fluffy and light
- Add the powdered sugar or maple syrup and vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything is well combined
- Refrigerate the whipped cream for at least 4 hours before serving
How to Use Whipped Cream Chargers and Dispensers
Whipped cream chargers and dispensers are the perfect tool to make whipped cream quickly and easily without requiring any manual effort. Here’s how to use them:
What You’ll Need:
- Whipped Cream Dispenser
- Whipped Cream Charger Cartridge
- Heavy Whipping Cream
- Flavours/Sugar
Directions:
- Fill the whipped cream dispenser with heavy whipping cream and add any flavours or sugar as desired.
- Screw the whipped cream charger cartridge to the dispenser until you hear a hissing sound
- Shake the dispenser a few times to incorporate the charger
- Dispense the whipped cream as desired
Conclusion: Lactose-Free Luxury
With a variety of non-dairy whipped cream alternatives and easy-to-use whipped cream chargers and dispensers, you can always have access to the creamy, fluffy topping you crave without sacrificing flavor or texture. So go ahead and indulge in lactose-free luxury and enjoy the perfect end to any meal or warm beverage.
FAQs
Can you make whipped cream without a whipped cream dispenser?
Yes, you can make whipped cream without a whipped cream dispenser by using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Simply whip the cream until it thickens and forms stiff peaks.
Are whipped cream chargers and dispensers safe to use?
Yes, whipped cream chargers and dispensers are safe to use as long as you follow the instructions carefully. Never puncture the charger cartridge with a pin or other sharp object, and never put the dispensers in the dishwasher.
How long can you store whipped cream?
Whipped cream can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, it may become grainy or watery.
Can you freeze whipped cream?
Whipped cream is not recommended for freezing, as it can become watery and lose its texture when thawed.