For those seeking a luscious, dairy-free alternative to traditional whipped cream, look no further. This keto coconut whipped cream recipe offers a delectable solution that aligns with various dietary preferences, including vegan, paleo, keto, and body ecology diets. It's a preservative-free, sugar-free option that doesn't compromise on flavor or texture.
Why Choose Homemade Dairy-Free Whipped Cream?
The primary advantage of crafting your own dairy-free whipped cream lies in ingredient control. Store-bought alternatives often contain undesirable additives like gums, fillers, excessive sugar, and processed ingredients. By making it yourself, you avoid these unnecessary components and minimize packaging waste by using a reusable stainless steel canister.
Is Coconut Whipped Cream a Healthy Choice?
Coconut cream boasts a wealth of nutrients, healthy fats, and flavor. This dairy-free whipped cream serves as a healthful replacement for traditional whipped cream, utilizing ingredients that nourish the body. The natural sweetness of coconut, enhanced by vanilla, often eliminates the need for additional sweeteners. If desired, plant-based sweeteners like stevia can be added without compromising its healthful qualities.
Ingredients for Dreamy Coconut Whipped Cream
This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients to create a fluffy, creamy delight:
- Coconut Cream in Cans: The base of this whipped cream, offering a dairy-free alternative with rich flavor and healthy fats.
- Coconut Oil: Adds to the texture and flavor, enhancing the creaminess of the whipped topping.
- Vanilla Bean Powder or Extract: A touch of warm vanilla complements the coconut flavor.
- Stevia or Maple Syrup (Optional): For those who prefer a sweeter whipped cream.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Coconut Whipped Cream
- Chill the Coconut Cream: Refrigerate the cans of coconut cream for 12 to 24 hours. This step is crucial for proper separation and whipping. For best results, place your canned coconut milk upside down in the fridge overnight. This will allow the creamy part to solidify on the bottom of the can and the watery coconut milk to stay at the top of the can.
- Separate the Cream: Open the chilled cans and scoop out the solidified coconut cream into a bowl. Reserve the coconut water for other uses, such as smoothies.
- Whip the Cream: Using a mixer (hand or stand), beat the coconut cream on medium-high speed until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Flavorings: Incorporate coconut oil, vanilla, and sweetener (if using). Whip until well combined.
- Chill or Use Immediately: Store the whipped coconut cream in the refrigerator until ready to serve, or freeze for up to 30 minutes for a quick chill.
Using a Whipped Cream Canister
Re-whip the chilled vegan whipped cream, and carefully pour the mixture into the canister. Put the lid and charger on, shake it up, and press down on the lever.
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Serving Without a Canister
Simply re-whip the chilled cream and spoon it onto your favorite desserts.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Cream Not Whipping: Ensure the coconut cream is adequately chilled and fully separated. If the cream is too thick, add a touch of the reserved coconut water. If the coconut milk is not fully hardened from the fridge or if there is liquid left over in the can, the coconut cream will not whip. Ensure that the coconut milk is the full-fat option and is refrigerated for twenty-four hours before whipping. Also, make sure to fully drain the water out before scooping it into a bowl to whip.
- Lumps: If the cream still has lumps after whipping, continue whipping while scraping the sides of the bowl, taking care not to over-whip.
- Texture Issues: If you purchase a can of coconut milk and it does not contain guar gum, don’t use it, this recipe will not work.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this dairy-free whipped cream as a topping for pies, cobblers, smoothies, pancakes, and waffles. It can also be used to dip cookies or enjoyed by the spoonful.
Recipe Variations and Sweetener Options
- Paleo/AIP: Use monk fruit extract, a dash of maple syrup, or honey.
- Keto: Opt for powdered low-carb sweeteners like erythritol or stevia.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or peppermint. For a chocolate version, add in a few tablespoons of cocoa powder and up the honey. You can also use any flavor stevia you like here, but my favorite brand is the Sweetleaf liquid vanilla stevia as I feel it does not have any aftertaste. I don’t use any artificial sweeteners in my recipes. I can also recommend a this Monk Fruit Allulose powdered sugar sweetener which would combine easily into this coconut whip cream.
Choosing the Right Coconut Milk
- Full-Fat is Crucial: Always use full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream for the best results. Avoid refrigerated cartons or "lite" varieties.
- Brand Recommendations: Native Forest, Thai Kitchen, and Whole Foods 365 are popular choices.
- Check for Solid Cream: When buying coconut milk, shake the can. If there's only a bit of liquid sloshing, it indicates a good amount of solid coconut cream.
Storing Coconut Whipped Cream
Coconut whipped cream can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It may firm up as it chills, so whisk briefly before serving.
Can You Freeze Coconut Whipped Cream?
Technically, yes, but the texture may change upon thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. Erythritol carbs are not included in carb counts.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Additional Tips for Success
- Chill mixing bowl and beaters for 10-30 minutes before whipping (optional but recommended.)
- Use a powdered sweetener for best results. Granulated sweeteners will not blend in well. A liquid will likely make the cream too thin, but liquid stevia or liquid monk drop are great options unless for some reason your cream is too thick.
- Other options for thickening include adding a bit of tapioca starch, arrowroot starch, or other thickeners.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cans full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream
- 2 Tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder or extract
- Sweetener to taste, stevia or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
- Place the coconut milk cans in the fridge for at least 12 hours, or 24 hours.
- Once chilled, open the cans and scoop the solid white coconut cream into the bowl. Discard or save the coconut water for another use.
- Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream on medium-high speed until fluffy and smooth.
- Add the coconut oil, vanilla, and optional sweetener and whip again until combined.
- Store the coconut whipped cream in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use.
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