This Genius Secret Ingredient Will Keep Your Homemade Whipped Cream From Deflating

We can't believe we've never thought of this.

Billowy swoops of whipped cream turn some of our favorite desserts into glamorous stunners. Think of the cream pie with its swirled topper, a trifle with a cloud-like layer of whipped cream between the cake and syrupy fruit, or a cake finished with a whipped cream crown. Whipped cream is the best part of some of our favorite warm-weather desserts. Except, that is, when it deflates. Nothing will make you weep quite like a weeping puddle sliding off your dessert long before it’s served. Luckily, there’s an easy way to give your whipped cream a structural boost—one that won’t just help it hold its shape, but will also make it taste even more delicious.

The Secret to Sturdier Whipped Cream

You don’t need a special technique or equipment, though we’ve tried some fun ones that work really well. The secret to whipped cream that doesn’t melt as soon as it’s out of the fridge is actually an ingredient—one you can stash in your pantry until needed.

This ingredient is none other than instant vanilla pudding mix. Just a little—about 1 tablespoon per 1 cup of heavy cream—will help your whipped cream stay aloft at room temperature. It also makes it taste even creamier, with even more vanilla flavor.

Why the Instant Pudding Hack Works

Instant vanilla pudding mix lists starch as one of the first ingredients. When combined with milk, the starch activates and becomes a luxurious, thick pudding without any cooking. The same thickening power that helps pudding keep its texture for hours can help whipped cream do the same. The trick is to use just a spoonful of instant pudding mix so the whipped cream keeps some of its airiness.

How to Make Sturdier Whipped Cream

To make this whipped cream, place 1 cup chilled heavy cream in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 tablespoon instant vanilla pudding mix, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat on high for 2–3 minutes until stiff peaks form. Add right to your dessert or chill until needed. This whipped cream is best the day it’s made, but you won’t have to make it at the last minute, and it’ll hold up throughout your celebration.

What’s the Difference Between Heavy Cream and Heavy Whipping Cream?

You’ll likely see both heavy cream and heavy whipping cream side by side in the dairy aisle. So what’s the difference? It’s actually very minimal. Heavy cream usually contains at least 36% milk fat. Heavy whipping cream contains 30% to 36% milk fat, so it whips up a little lighter. For some brands there is no difference at all, just the name on the package. Either can be used to make whipped cream.

Read the original article on All Recipes.