Double and single cream vary in several ways. Double cream has twice the fat concentration as single cream. Double cream contains not less than 48% butter fat, whereas single cream has 18% butter fat.
That means double cream possesses more than double the calories found in twice single cream. They also have different textures, diminishing the possibility of one being equivalent to the other.
Can You Use Single Cream Instead Of Double Cream?
Single cream should not be used as a substitute for double cream. Single cream tends to split, forming lumps if boiled. Single creams also do not whip due to their low-fat concentration. The two creams are best in their different uses. Single cream is used where thin cream is needed, such as in soup toppings or sauces, while double cream is considered where denser cream is required.
Where is the Use of Single Cream Better Than Double Cream?
Single cream is better than double cream if the recipe does not require heating, as it will curdle upon reaching the boiling point. It is best used as a topping for fruits and desserts.
Since fruits and desserts will not be subjected to heat, the cream will maintain its texture while adding a sweet flavor to the delicious dessert. It adds a pleasant taste when used on coffee and soups too.
Where is the Use of Double Cream Better Than Single Cream?
Double cream is better in recipes where a denser cream is needed or when a recipe will require whipping. Double cream is suitable for cooking.
That is because it has a high-fat level and will make a thick sauce without the cream being affected by the heat. Due to its texture, it is used for cake decoration. In addition, double cream is also added in savory dishes to add taste.
Can I Convert Single Cream into Double Cream?
You can convert single cream into double cream. I will discuss two methods; you are free to go with any as per your preference. Though the quantities may change, maintain the ratios.
Method 1
Ingredients
- Butter
- Single cream
Procedure
- Put 1 scoop of butter into a bowl
- Add 2 scoops of single cream to the bowl
- Put the two ingredients in a blender and puree to combine them. You may mix using a whisk if you don’t have a blender.
- Keep the mixture in the fridge for not less than two hours
- Whisk until stiff peak forms
Method 2
Ingredients
- Single cream
- Whole milk
- Gelatin (Use unflavored gelatin)
Procedure
- Put a quarter cup of whole milk into a double boiler
- Add a tablespoon of unflavored gelatin and stir
- Put 1 cup of single cream in a bowl, and add the mixture above. Mix well.
- Put in the fridge for 2 hours
- Whisk it by hand until stiff peaks form
Can I Convert Double Cream into Single Cream?
I can convert double cream into single cream. The main idea here is to lower the fat concentration since this is a significant variance between double cream and single cream. That is done by diluting the double cream with whole milk.
In this procedure, I will show you how to get 3 cups of single cream converted from double cream. For whatever amounts used, ensure that the ratio of 1:2 remains consistent.
Method
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups double cream
Procedure
- Put 2 cups of double cream into a bowl
- Add 1 cup of whole milk to the bowl
- Put the two ingredients in a blender and process to combine the two. You may mix by using a whisk if you don’t have a blender.
- Keep the mixture refrigerated.
Do Double and Single Creams Have the Same Health Benefits?
Both double and single creams have health benefits. They have many similar benefits due to the matching available contents. The variance comes in the percentages of their substance concentration making the discrepancies in the level of impact each has. Some of the health benefits are listed below.
- Helps in growth of body and development: They contain components such as calcium, vitamin A, and folate, among others. These components boost the immune system, brain and nerve development, and bone development. Besides, it also helps maintain strong, healthy teeth.
- Energy booster: Double cream has more fat concentration than single cream, but the levels are still relatively high. That helps in replenishing the lost energy in the body.
- Maintain general well-being: Iron and supplementary nutrients in these creams help develop red blood cells. These cells help in the transportation of oxygen to all parts of the body.
What are the Risks of Having Too Much Cream?
Even with its health advantages, cream often has many side effects if taken in excessive amounts. Below are various health risks involved.
- Digestive problems: This is due to lactose intolerance. Consuming too much cream may cause lactase enzymes to drain faster, resulting in indigestion.
- Vomiting and nausea: The body is generally slow in digesting some fats found in the creams. For this reason, some people feel nauseated, and others vomit after consuming cream because the body cannot process it fast enough.
- Cancer risks: Some epidemiological studies show that excessive cream intake is associated with increased breast, colon, and prostate cancer risks.
- Poor skin: Creams aggravate digestive problems causing an accumulation of internal waste. The skin breaks when trying to salvage the situation by removing these wastes. That is evident through acne or redness on the skin surface.
Read about what the US equivalent of double cream and single cream is.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can You Use Single Cream Instead of Double Cream?
Can I Make Double Cream From Single Cream?
You can make double cream from single cream. Since double cream has a higher fat content than single cream, increasing the fat levels to preferred concentrations can make single cream like double cream.
Can I Make Single Cream from Double Cream?
Lowering the fat content level of double cream to the correct percentage can turn it into single cream. That is attained through a procedure of diluting double cream with whole milk.
Can I Substitute Double Cream with Single Cream?
Single cream and double cream are not substitutes. Each of these creams has got different texture and hence different uses. Moreover, boiling single cream can cause it to curdle. Single cream also does not whip well.
Conclusion to Can You Use Single Cream Instead Of Double Cream?
Single cream and double cream cannot be used interchangeably with each other due to their different fat contents. Single cream can curdle when heated and does not whip up well unlike double cream.
Single cream is best suited for desserts, toppings, sauces, and cold applications, while double cream is best used for heartier recipes and those that require a more stable cream, or those that require whipping.