There are times when I find myself with an overwhelming amount of leftover cream. I don’t want to throw it away, since I know it could still be of some use to me. A lot of my favorite dishes require cream, so I would really love to be able to store cream for a longer time. Is there any way to do this?
Most recipes don’t really use up an entire can or container of cream. Thus, we are often left with extra cream with a relatively short shelf life. To save some money and time, it is a good idea to freeze leftover cream.
Cream can be frozen, especially if it’s of the heavy variety. Unfortunately, the lighter types of cream, as well as half and half cream, don’t freeze well. You can store heavy cream or whipping cream for around 4 months.
Can You Freeze Cream?
If you have unopened cream that’s about to expire, simply place the entire carton inside the freezer to preserve it. Make sure that there’s enough space for the cream to expand.
Thaw the cream by moving it into the refrigerator for one to two days. Liter- and quart-sized containers will need to defrost for a longer time.
Freezing the cream will make the fat clump together, and will remain in the cream once thawed. Shake the container well before using to re-emulsify the frozen cream.
Frozen cream can also be turned into whipped cream. Since its texture will become grainy after defrosting, add some sugar to bring back its smoothness.
Make sure to incorporate the butterfat completely after defrosting the frozen cream. Cream that’s been watered down won’t whip well.
It’s best to use the thawed cream for recipes that require the cream to be heated. This removes the lumps within the cream more thoroughly than mixing.
How to Freeze Cream
The only type of cream that’s recommended for freezing is heavy cream. You can store it in smaller portions or by the container.
- For smaller batches, place the heavy cream in candy molds or ice cube trays. Don’t fill the molds and tray to the brim, since the cream is expected to expand.
- Next, freeze the cream solid for a few hours. Once solid, pop the cubes out.
- Place the cubes inside a plastic freezer bag or a freezer-safe container, then store inside the freezer.
- For larger batches, like entire cartons or containers of heavy cream, check if there’s enough space inside the container for the cream to expand. Usually, store-bought cream will have some headspace. If there’s none, pour out a bit of the heavy cream.
- Place the container directly inside the freezer. For a cooler storage, keep it at the back of the freezer.
- To thaw, simply move the cream into the refrigerator overnight, then use as needed.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Cream?
Cream is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. But what do you do when you have extra cream? Here are five delicious ways to use up your leftover cream:
- Make a creamy soup – If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to use up your leftover cream, why not turn it into a soup? Just add in some chicken broth and vegetables, and you’ll have a hearty meal in no time.
- Make a sauces – Cream can also be used to make a variety of sauces, such as Alfredo sauce or carbonara sauce. Just add the cream to a pan with some other ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious sauce in no time.
- Make a dip – Alfredo sauce can also be used to make a delicious dip for chips or breadsticks. Simply add in some shredded cheese and spices, and you’ll have a tasty snack that everyone will love.
- Make ice cream – Leftover cream can also be used to make homemade ice cream. Just add it to a blender with some milk, sugar, and flavorings of your choice, and you’ll have a delicious dessert in no time.
- Make whipped cream – And of course, you can always use your leftover cream to make whipped cream. Just add it to a bowl with some sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. You can then use the whipped cream as is, or use it to top off your favorite desserts.
So there you have it – five delicious ways to use up your leftover cream. Next time you find yourself with extra cream, try one of these recipes and enjoy!
Cream Recipes
A quick and easy chocolate dessert to whip up is this Chocolate Mousse. Whip some of the heavy cream up for the children to enjoy!
Prepare a classic and intricate treat with this Chocolate Swiss Roll with Vanilla Cream Filling recipe. Not only does it taste heavenly, but it looks great on the plate as well.
If you love the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, then this Homemade Peanut Butter Cups is the dessert for you! It’s happiness in bite-sized cups.
Wrap Up
Yes, you can freeze cream and it will last for 6-8 months in the freezer. Here is how to freeze cream: bring it to room temperature before putting it in an air-tight bag, prevent any air from entering the bag by making sure you seal the bag tightly, store properly, and label the bag with today’s date.
How do you plan to freeze your cream? Share your experience with me in the comment below. I am always looking to hear from my readers.
