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This classic vanilla whipped cream is one of the easiest recipes you’ll ever make, and it’s also so incredibly versatile. From adding it to your baking creations like pies and cakes, to using as a topping for brownies and pancakes, to simply using as a topping for coffees and hot drinks, it’s the kind of thing that you’ll make time and time again. Be warned though – once you’ve tried it, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions!

Here’s What Scoop & sprinkle Readers Have Said About this recipe…

“I will not but pre-made any more. My daughter made it and is now on whipped cream duty whenever we want some”
Kimberly

“Really good and super easy”
Rachael

“Delicious and simple”
Cassandra

How to use homemade whipped cream

Topping for Desserts: Elevate brownies, cakes, pies, or cupcakes with a dollop of whipped cream for a little extra indulgence.
On Hot Drinks: Add a creamy touch to hot chocolate, coffee, or lattes.
On Fresh Fruits: Serve alongside strawberries, peaches, or mixed berries for a light treat.
Layered in Trifles: Use as a layer in dessert trifles with fruit, cake, or cookies.
Frosting for Cakes: A light and fluffy alternative to traditional frosting.
Filling for Desserts: Pipe into cream puffs, eclairs, or between cookie sandwiches.
On Pancakes or Waffles: Top your breakfast with whipped cream and fresh fruit or syrup.
On Milkshakes: Add the perfect finishing touch to milkshakes or ice cream floats.
On Pudding or Custard: Enhance the creaminess of puddings, flans, or crème brûlée.
In Parfaits: Layer with granola, yogurt, and fruit for a decadent parfait.
On Ice Cream Sundaes: A classic addition to any sundae bar.
With Hot Desserts: Pair with warm cobblers, crisps, or bread pudding for contrast.
On Sweet Breakfasts: Spread over crepes, French toast, or sweet rolls.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Classic Vanilla Whipped Cream

Heavy cream
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract

Yep, you seriously need just three simple ingredients to make this recipe! Best of all, they’re ingredients that many of us will already have at home, so this is a rare baking recipe that doesn’t require you to rush out to the grocery store to try it out. If you want to explore more flavors, I suggest checking out my collection of 21 easy whipped cream recipes.

Instructions

You’ll find a printable, detailed recipe card at the bottom of this post with measurements!

In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form.
Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, being careful not to overwhip.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Chill Your Equipment: Place your mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge or freezer for 15 minutes before starting. Cold equipment helps the cream whip faster and hold its shape better!
Use Cold Cream: Always use heavy cream straight from the fridge; warmer cream won’t whip properly.
Whip in Stages: Start on low speed to avoid splashing, then gradually increase to medium-high.
Avoid Overbeating: Stop whipping as soon as stiff peaks form; overbeating will turn your cream into butter!
Taste as You Go: Check sweetness and flavor balance before finishing to ensure perfection.
Use the Right Bowl: Opt for a metal or glass bowl over plastic, as these help keep the cream cold during whipping.
Plan for Freshness: Homemade whipped cream is best used immediately but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Gently rewhip if needed.