Ever wonder what the difference between whipping cream and half and half is? Or why one receipt may call for a cup of whipping cream and one may call for a cup of half and half? Both half and half and whipping cream are perishable dairy products that are used for many reasons. However they serve different purposes and differ in taste, texture and calories.
What Are The Key Difference?
Whipping cream and half and half are made from two different parts of the milk which means two different nutritional contents. Whipping cream is that thick layer that rises to the top when you pour whole milk into a glass. Also known as the fat calories in milk. Many people buy 2% and 1% milk because it has a reduction in fat content. There are approximately 800 calories and 80 grams of fat in one cup of whipping cream while half and half only has approximately 300 calories with 30 grams of fat. Half an half is a great alternative to whipping cream and whole milk if your trying to cut calories or simply watch your fat content.
One trick you may not know, is whipping cream can be turned into half and half by diluting it with regular milk. If your ever in the store and can’t remember what the recipe called for you can always buy a container of whipping cream and a small container of milk. This can also come in handy when you need to save space in your fridge, instead of having a spot for milk, whipping cream, and half and half you can eliminate the half and half spot and make more room.
Texture between the two is a major difference when it comes to baking. Whipping cream is usually called for in a delicate recipe such as gourmet cupcakes, as the light texture can make a smooth icing. Also the more you whip the cream, the thicker it gets, creating more product. Remember a little, goes a long way. Half and Half is usually used in thin sauces as well as a beverage add in. Many people will use half and half in their coffee or tea to get that creamy taste but without the extra calories.
Although these two seem similar, when baking and or cooking they are 100% opposite. You simply cannot bake a fluffy cake with only half and half. Yes your cake may turn out moist, but it will also turn out flat with no texture. The best way to tell what fits you and your family is by experimenting with your recipe. If you want to save some calories use half and half, if you want a thicker richer sauce add some whipping cream.