What is the Difference Between Heavy Cream and Thickened Cream?

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Heavy cream and thickened cream are similar products, but they have some differences in terms of their names and the additives they contain. Here are the key points:

  • Heavy cream, also known as heavy whipping cream, is a term used mostly in the US, while thickened cream is a term used more often in Australia and certain parts of Europe.
  • Both heavy cream and thickened cream contain roughly the same fat content, around 35% milk fat.
  • Thickened cream may contain additives and thickening agents such as vegetable gum and gelatin, which help make it easier to whip and prevent curdling. In the US, heavy cream is typically sold as 'whipping cream' and usually does not contain these additives.
  • Double cream has more than 48% milk fat content and is not the same as heavy cream or thickened cream.

In summary, heavy cream and thickened cream are similar products with comparable fat content, but their names and the presence of additives may vary. They can generally be used interchangeably in recipes, but it is essential to consider the specific properties of each product when choosing the right one for a particular application.

Comparative Table: Heavy Cream vs Thickened Cream

Heavy cream and thickened cream, also known as whipping cream, are both high-fat dairy products often used in cooking and baking. Here is a comparison between the two:

Property Heavy Cream Thickened Cream (Whipping Cream)
Fat Content Minimum 36% milk fat 30-36% milk fat
Consistency Thicker and creamier Lighter texture
Uses Both sweet and savory dishes Mainly sweet recipes
Substitutes Whipping cream can be used as a substitute for heavy cream in many recipes, but the result may be slightly lighter in consistency. Heavy cream is often used in recipes that call for whipping cream, but the result may be thicker or creamier.

In summary, heavy cream has a higher fat content than thickened cream, resulting in a thicker and creamier consistency. Heavy cream is typically used in both sweet and savory dishes, while thickened cream is more commonly used for sweet recipes. Both products can be used interchangeably in recipes, but the consistency of the final product may vary slightly.