How to Make Heavy Whipping Cream from Scratch – Just 2 Ingredients!

Have you ever found yourself halfway through a recipe only to realize you’re out of heavy whipping cream? Whether you’re in a pinch or simply prefer making things from scratch, this simple and cost-effective method shows you how to make homemade heavy cream using just two basic ingredients. It’s easy, fast, and perfect for baking, cooking, and more!

What Is Heavy Whipping Cream?

Heavy whipping cream, often referred to as heavy cream, is a rich dairy product that contains at least 36% fat. It’s used in both sweet and savory recipes—from silky sauces and soups to fluffy whipped cream toppings and decadent desserts. What gives it its charm is the luxurious texture and rich mouthfeel that comes from its high fat content.

But what if you don’t have a carton on hand? This DIY version mimics the texture and richness of store-bought heavy cream using butter and milk.

Why Make Heavy Cream at Home?

Convenience – No last-minute trips to the store.
Budget-Friendly – Saves money, especially if you use it often.
Customizable – You control the ingredients; no preservatives or additives.
Emergency Solution – Great for rural areas or during shortages.

Ingredients

All you need is:

70g unsalted butter (about ⅓ cup)
150 ml whole milk (about ⅔ cup)

Note: It’s important to use whole milk (full-fat) for the best consistency. Skim or low-fat milk won’t produce the same creamy result.

Tools You’ll Need

Small saucepan
Blender (immersion or countertop)
Measuring cups
Glass jar or airtight container for storage

Instructions – Step by Step

Step 1: Melt the Butter

In a small saucepan, add the butter and heat gently over low heat until it’s fully melted. Add the milk and stir until the two are well combined.

Tip: Do not let the mixture boil—gentle heat is key to keeping the texture smooth.

Step 2: Blend Until Creamy

Pour the mixture into a blender or use an immersion blender. Blend on high speed for 1 full minute. This emulsifies the butter and milk, giving you a rich, creamy texture similar to heavy cream.

Step 3: Let It Cool

Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Then, cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to keep out moisture and odors.

Step 4: Refrigerate

Place the container in the fridge and chill overnight, or for at least 6–8 hours. As it cools, it will thicken and resemble store-bought heavy cream in texture.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Use within 5 days for best results.
Shake or stir before each use as slight separation is natural.

Yield

This recipe makes approximately 1 cup (8 oz) of homemade heavy whipping cream—perfect for most baking and cooking needs.

Can You Whip This Cream?

Not exactly. While this mixture has a rich texture, it doesn’t have a high enough fat content to whip into stiff peaks like store-bought heavy cream. However, it’s perfect for adding creaminess to:

Coffee or lattes
Pasta sauces
Baked goods
Custards and puddings
Soups and stews

If you want a whippable version, try adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar and refrigerating it longer, or use coconut cream as an alternative.

Expert Tips for Success

Always use unsalted butter for a neutral taste.
Whole milk (3.25% fat or higher) works best.
For a richer texture, try adding a tablespoon of dry milk powder.
Let the mixture chill completely before using in recipes that require a thicker cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Plant-Based Milk?

You can, but the result won’t be as creamy. Coconut milk is the closest vegan alternative due to its high fat content.

What If I Don’t Have a Blender?

You can whisk vigorously by hand or shake the mixture in a sealed jar, but a blender yields the smoothest, most stable result.

Can I Freeze It?

It’s not recommended. Freezing may cause separation and texture loss.

Final Thoughts

Making heavy whipping cream from scratch is easier than you might think. With just butter and milk, you can create a creamy, homemade alternative that’s perfect in everything from sauces to desserts. It’s a fantastic solution for home cooks, bakers, and anyone who loves DIY kitchen hacks.

Whether you’re dealing with a last-minute grocery shortage or simply want to eat more intentionally, this recipe empowers you to take control of your ingredients without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Try it out, bookmark this recipe, and share it with friends and fellow food lovers!
Want more simple, useful homemade recipes like this one? Stay tuned for more kitchen essentials that save time, money, and boost your cooking confidence! Butter Biscuits