Double cream is a luxurious type of cream that is commonly used in baking, cooking, and dessert recipes. It has a high-fat content of around 48%, making it thick, rich, and perfect for adding to whipped cream, sauces, and custards. Double cream is commonly used in British and European cooking and can be found in most grocery stores. However, if you cannot find it or prefer to make your own, it is easy to do so with just two ingredients.
Ingredients
To make double cream, you only need two ingredients: heavy cream and butter. Heavy cream is also known as whipping cream, and it contains around 36% fat. Butter is added to increase the fat content and thicken the cream. You will need the following ingredients: - 2 cups heavy cream - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
Instructions
Making double cream is a simple process that only takes a few minutes. Here's how to do it: 1. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. 2. Reduce the heat to low and add the butter, stirring until it has melted completely. 3. Simmer the cream and butter mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it has thickened and reduced slightly. 4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. 5. Once the cream has cooled, transfer it to a mixing bowl and use an electric mixer or whisk to beat it until it forms stiff peaks. 6. Use the double cream immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Double cream is high in fat, so it should be consumed in moderation. Here is the nutritional information for a 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of double cream: - Calories: 103 - Fat: 11 grams - Saturated Fat: 7 grams - Carbohydrates: 1 gram - Protein: 1 gram - Sugar: 0 grams - Sodium: 9 milligrams
Tips and Variations
- Make sure that the butter is at room temperature before adding it to the cream. This will ensure that it melts and incorporates evenly. - You can add flavorings to the double cream, such as vanilla extract, cinnamon, or nutmeg. - Double cream can be used as a substitute for whipped cream, but it is thicker and richer. If you want a lighter consistency, you can add a bit of milk or cream to the double cream and whisk it until it reaches the desired consistency. - Double cream can be used in a variety of recipes, including scones, cakes, tarts, and sauces. It is a versatile ingredient that adds richness and flavor to any dish. - If you are watching your fat intake, you can use a lower-fat cream, such as half-and-half, in place of heavy cream. However, the resulting cream will not be as thick or rich.
Conclusion
Making your own double cream is easy and allows you to control the fat content and flavor. By following the simple instructions and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a rich and delicious cream that is perfect for any recipe. Use it in baking, cooking, or as a topping for desserts, and enjoy the decadent and luxurious taste of double cream.
