If you are a baking enthusiast, you are probably familiar with double cream. Double cream is a luxurious ingredient that is a staple in many kitchens. Its rich, smooth texture and high-fat content make it perfect for a variety of desserts, from cakes to custards to puddings.
What is Double Cream?
Double cream is a rich, thick cream that has a fat content of at least 48%. It is made by skimming the top layer of cream from unhomogenized milk. Due to its high fat content, it is often used as a topping for desserts, and it is also used in many recipes to add richness and creaminess.
Recipes to Bake with Double Cream
1. Double Cream Chocolate Mousse
This decadent dessert is rich, smooth, and perfect for chocolate lovers. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 200g dark chocolate
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups double cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or a heatproof bowl over simmering water.
- In a separate pan, heat the water and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the hot sugar mixture to the melted chocolate and stir until smooth.
- Whip the double cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture.
- Divide the mixture into individual serving dishes and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
2. Double Cream Scones
Scones are a classic British tea-time treat, and using double cream in the recipe makes them extra rich and delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 225g self-raising flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 40g butter
- 25g sugar
- 150ml double cream
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together.
- Rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Stir in the sugar.
- Add the double cream and mix until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly.
- Roll the dough out to about 2cm thick and use a cutter to cut out the scones.
- Place the scones on the prepared baking tray and brush the tops with milk.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Double Cream Fudge
Fudge is a sweet treat that is perfect for snacking or giving as a gift. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can condensed milk
- 450g granulated sugar
- 115g butter
- 150ml double cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Line a 20cm square baking tin with parchment paper.
- In a large saucepan, heat the condensed milk, sugar, and butter over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, for about 15 minutes or until the mixture reaches 116°C on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the double cream and vanilla extract.
- Beat the mixture with a wooden spoon until it thickens and becomes creamy.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking tin and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature for about 2 hours.
- Once the fudge has set, remove it from the tin and cut it into small squares.
Tips for Baking with Double Cream
- Double cream can be substituted for whipping cream in most recipes, but keep in mind that it has a higher fat content, so it may not whip as easily.
- When using double cream in recipes, it’s important to not over-whip it. Over-whipping can cause the cream to curdle and turn into butter.
- Double cream can be used in place of milk in some recipes, such as scones, to make them extra rich and tender.
- For best results, always use fresh double cream that has been stored in the fridge.
- Double cream can be used to make delicious sauces, such as a rich mushroom sauce or a creamy pasta sauce.
FAQs
Single cream has a lower fat content and will not provide the same richness and creaminess as double cream. However, it can be used in some recipes as a substitute.
Double cream can be frozen, but it may separate when thawed. It’s best to use frozen double cream in cooked dishes rather than as a topping or whipped cream.
Yes, double cream can be used to make delicious sauces and soups, adding a creamy richness to the dish.
Double cream is not a suitable substitute for milk in tea or coffee as it is too thick and rich.
Double cream is high in fat and calories, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Double cream is a versatile ingredient that can add richness and creaminess to a variety of desserts and dishes. From chocolate mousse to scones to fudge, there are many delicious recipes that you can make with double cream. Just remember to use fresh cream, not over-whip it, and experiment with using it in different ways in your baking.
