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Unsalted Heavy Cream
Dairy
Nutri-ScoreB

Unsalted Heavy Cream

Bos taurus

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Unsalted Heavy Cream provides 340 kcal, 2.8g of protein, 2.9g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'B', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Unsalted heavy cream is a rich dairy product made from the high-fat part of milk. It is commonly used in cooking and baking for its creamy texture and ability to enhance flavors.

Also known as:
Whipping CreamDouble Cream
Scientific NameBos taurus
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories340 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total41.7g
Protein
2.8g(7%)
Fats
36g(86%)
Carbohydrates
2.9g(7%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A300 IU (6%)
Vitamin D1 mcg (5%)
Vitamin E0.3 mg (2%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.14 mg (11%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.4 mg (8%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin B120.3 mcg (12%)
Choline15 mg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin K: 0.2 mcgVitamin b3 (niacin): 0.1 mgFolate: 5 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium120 mg (12%)
Magnesium7 mg (2%)
Phosphorus90 mg (9%)
Potassium150 mg (4%)
Zinc0.4 mg (4%)
Copper0.02 mg (2%)
Selenium1 mcg (2%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Iron: 0.1 mgManganese: 0.01 mg

Health Benefits

Rich in fat-soluble vitamins such as A and D, which are essential for maintaining healthy vision and immune function.
Provides a source of energy and can be beneficial for those needing higher caloric intake.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High in saturated fats, which may contribute to heart disease if consumed excessively. Moderation is key.

How to Prepare & Consume

Use in sauces, soups, or desserts. Whip for toppings or incorporate into recipes for added richness.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose heavy cream that is labeled as 'heavy' or 'double' cream for the best quality. Check the expiration date and ensure it is stored in a cold section of the refrigerator.

How to Store

Keep heavy cream tightly sealed in the refrigerator. Once opened, use within 7-10 days for optimal freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Nutrient-rich, Energy-dense, Supports culinary applications.
Main Applications
Culinary uses in sauces and desserts
Nutritional supplementation for high-calorie diets
Bioactive Compounds
Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

May support weight management and improve body composition.

How to Consume
Fresh, Whipped, Cooked in sauces
Did you know?

"Heavy cream can be whipped to create a stable topping for desserts and can also be used to make butter."

Myths vs Realities

MythHeavy cream is unhealthy and should be avoided.
RealityWhile high in fat, heavy cream can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
MythAll creams are the same.
RealityDifferent creams have varying fat contents, affecting their culinary uses.
MythHeavy cream can be used indefinitely if refrigerated.
RealityHeavy cream has a limited shelf life and should be used within a week after opening.

Healthy Recipes

Creamy Avocado Spinach Smoothie

This nutrient-packed smoothie combines the richness of unsalted heavy cream with the freshness of spinach and avocado for a deliciously creamy drink.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1 banana
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 cup almond milk
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine the unsalted heavy cream, avocado, spinach, banana, honey, and almond milk.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with more almond milk if desired.
  3. 3. Serve immediately, garnished with a slice of avocado or a sprinkle of chia seeds.

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta

A wholesome pasta dish featuring a creamy garlic sauce made with unsalted heavy cream and sautéed mushrooms, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz whole grain pasta
  • 1 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the whole grain pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic and mushrooms until tender.
  3. 3. Stir in the unsalted heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and simmer until slightly thickened. Toss with pasta and garnish with parsley.

Lemon Cream Chicken

This zesty lemon cream chicken dish is light yet flavorful, featuring a creamy sauce made with unsalted heavy cream and fresh herbs.

Ingredients
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme, then heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides.
  2. 2. In the same skillet, add the lemon juice and unsalted heavy cream, stirring to combine.
  3. 3. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until cooked through, serving with a drizzle of the creamy sauce.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This comforting tomato basil soup features a creamy base from unsalted heavy cream, perfect for dipping with whole grain bread.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent, then add diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
  2. 2. Simmer for 15 minutes, then blend until smooth. Stir in unsalted heavy cream and fresh basil, heating through.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Creamy Cauliflower Mash

A healthy alternative to mashed potatoes, this creamy cauliflower mash uses unsalted heavy cream for a rich texture without the carbs.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chives for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam the cauliflower until tender, then transfer to a food processor.
  2. 2. Add unsalted heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper, and blend until smooth.
  3. 3. Serve warm, garnished with chopped chives.

Creamy Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

This delicious stuffed chicken breast is filled with a creamy spinach and feta mixture, using unsalted heavy cream for extra richness.

Ingredients
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix spinach, feta, garlic, and unsalted heavy cream.
  2. 2. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and stuff with the spinach mixture, securing with toothpicks.
  3. 3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.

Creamy Coconut Chia Pudding

This delightful chia pudding is enriched with unsalted heavy cream and coconut milk, creating a creamy and nutritious breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup chia seeds
  • 1 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together chia seeds, unsalted heavy cream, coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
  2. 2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened.
  3. 3. Serve topped with fresh fruit or nuts.

Creamy Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

A healthy twist on a classic casserole, this dish features steamed broccoli and a creamy cheese sauce made with unsalted heavy cream.

Ingredients
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli until tender.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix unsalted heavy cream, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper, then combine with broccoli.
  3. 3. Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Creamy Berry Parfait

This delightful parfait layers fresh berries with a creamy mixture of unsalted heavy cream and Greek yogurt for a healthy dessert or breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Granola for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whip the unsalted heavy cream and honey until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the Greek yogurt.
  2. 2. In serving glasses, layer the creamy mixture with mixed berries and top with granola.
  3. 3. Serve immediately for a refreshing treat.

Creamy Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

This low-carb dish features spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in a creamy pesto sauce made with unsalted heavy cream, perfect for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 cup unsalted heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat the unsalted heavy cream and pesto over medium heat until warmed through.
  2. 2. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles, tossing to coat in the sauce, and cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, and serve topped with Parmesan cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between heavy cream and whipping cream?

Heavy cream contains at least 36% fat, while whipping cream has 30-36% fat.

Can heavy cream be used in coffee?

Yes, heavy cream can be added to coffee for a rich and creamy texture.

Is heavy cream suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals?

Some lactose-intolerant individuals may tolerate heavy cream better than milk due to its lower lactose content.

How should heavy cream be stored?

Store heavy cream in the refrigerator and use it within a week after opening.

Can heavy cream be frozen?

Yes, heavy cream can be frozen, but it may separate upon thawing.

What are some recipes that use heavy cream?

Heavy cream is commonly used in sauces, soups, and desserts like panna cotta and ice cream.

Is heavy cream healthy?

In moderation, heavy cream can be part of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients.

Can I substitute heavy cream with milk?

Milk can be used as a substitute, but it will not provide the same richness and texture.