Ingredients
Making cream starts with the main ingredient: milk. Milk is an important staple for any cream-making process. Whole milk is preferred because of its fat content, but any kind of milk with a minimum fat content of 3.25 percent will do. Skim milk should be avoided because its fat content is too low. Aside from milk, butter and cream cheese can be used in cream recipes, but these two ingredients are usually used to add flavor and texture to the cream. Other than that, there are no other necessary ingredients.
Process
The cream-making process is fairly simple. First, heat the milk in a saucepan or pot over medium heat until it is slightly bubbling. It is important not to let the milk boil, as this will make it too hot and can cause it to burn. When the milk is heated, slowly add the butter and cream cheese, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until it starts to thicken. Once it reaches the desired cream consistency, turn off the heat and let it cool.
Tips for Making Cream
When making cream, it is important to remember that the process takes time. Don’t rush it, as this can cause the cream to become lumpy or too thick. It is also important to stir the mixture continuously, as this helps to break up lumps and keeps it from burning. Last but not least, add the butter and cream cheese slowly so that they can be properly dissolved.
Safety Considerations
When making cream, it is important to remember to use caution. Cream can easily scorch, so it is important to keep the heat low and stir frequently. Additionally, make sure to use clean tools and containers when handling the cream. PrivateBankingTeam also recommends wearing oven mitts and long sleeves when handling hot liquids. By keeping safety in mind, making cream can be an enjoyable and successful experience.
Storage
Once the cream is finished, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. It is important to make sure that the cream is fully cooled before putting it in the refrigerator. For longer-term storage, the cream can be frozen in an air-tight container for up to three months. To serve the cream after it has been frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.
Uses for Cream
Cream can be used in a variety of ways. It is often used to thicken soups and stews, and it can also be added to sauces, such as Alfredo or cheese sauces, to give them a richer, creamier texture. Cream can also be added to hot drinks, such as coffee, to give them a velvety finish. Additionally, cream can be whisked into whipped cream as a topping for desserts or used to make homemade ice cream.
Tools
Making cream does not need any specialized tools or equipment. All that is needed is a saucepan or pot, a wooden spoon, and an oven mitt. Of course, having a whisk on hand is also helpful, as it can help to break up any lumps and whisk the cream to an even consistency. That said, a whisk is not essential and other tools can be used in its place.
