A whipping cream dispenser is a handy kitchen tool that makes whipping up fresh cream quick and easy.
With just a few ingredients and a couple minutes, you can have fluffy whipped cream ready to top all your favorite baked goods and beverages.
What is a Whipping Cream Dispenser?
A whipping cream dispenser, also known as a cream whipper or whipped cream siphon, is a cylindrical metal canister used to infuse air into cream or other liquids. This process, known as "whipping", gives the cream a light, airy texture.
The canister has a screw-on lid that contains a valve and nozzle. Nitrous oxide cartridges are inserted into the lid to pressurize the canister. When the nozzle's lever is pressed, the nitrous oxide is released into the cream, forcing it through the nozzle while simultaneously incorporating tiny air bubbles. This instantly transforms heavy cream into billowy, whipped cream.
Whipping cream dispensers are commonly made of stainless steel or aluminum. The most popular size is 1 pint (16 oz or 500ml). They typically come with various decorator tips that allow you to pipe whipped cream and achieve different decorative effects.
Whipping Cream Dispenser Parts
A whipped cream dispenser is made up of several main components:
- Canister - The main cylindrical container that holds the cream or other liquids. Usually made of aluminum or stainless steel.
- Lid - Screws onto the canister and contains the dispensing valve and nozzle. May be plastic or metal.
- Gasket - A ring that fits inside the lid to form an airtight seal between the lid and canister. Usually made of silicone or rubber.
- Dispensing Valve - Opens when the lever is pressed to release the whipped cream. Often removable for cleaning.
- Nozzle - Fitted into the dispensing valve and determines the shape of whipped cream that is dispensed. Interchangeable tips available.
- Charger Holder - Holds the N2O cartridge and screws into the dispenser lid.
- N2O Cartridges - Sold separately. Contain nitrous oxide gas to pressurize the canister and whip the cream.
How to Use a Whipping Cream Dispenser
Using a cream whipper is very straightforward. Just follow these simple steps:
1. Add Cream and Flavorings
Remove the lid of your whipped cream dispenser and pour in cold heavy cream or whipping cream. Fill to the maximum fill line - usually around 1 cup (250ml) for a 1 pint dispenser.
Now is the time to add any flavorings or sweeteners if desired. Options include sugar, vanilla, chocolate or fruit syrups, alcohol, or spices.
2. Seal and Charge the Dispenser
Put the lid back on tightly, ensuring the gasket is in place to prevent leaks. Insert a nitrous oxide (N2O) cartridge into the charger holder. Screw the holder onto the dispenser lid until you hear the gas release into the canister.
Tip: Lay the dispenser on its side for 1 minute after charging. This allows the N2O to fully disperse into the cream for optimal results.
3. Shake and Dispense Whipped Cream
Shake the dispenser 5-10 times to incorporate the nitrous oxide. Turn it upside down and press the lever to dispense your freshly whipped cream! Apply even pressure and pipe whipped cream directly onto desserts, coffees, etc.
Give it another shake if the cream seems too thin, and re-press the lever. Add more N2O cartridges as needed if the cream is still too liquidy.
4. Clean Thoroughly
Always dispel any remaining gas and take the dispenser apart to wash after each use. Use warm, soapy water but do not place in the dishwasher. Air dry fully before assembling again.
Tips for Using a Whipped Cream Dispenser
Follow these tips to get the most out of your whipped cream dispenser:
- Chill all ingredients before using for optimal whipping.
- Do not overfill beyond the maximum line to prevent accidents.
- Shake well before each use to remix contents.
- Store any leftover whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.
- Add additional N2O cartridges to re-whip if whipped cream becomes runny.
- Use a stainless steel cleaner to remove water spots or mineral deposits.
- Always dispense remaining gas before taking apart to avoid getting sprayed with cream.
- Use silicone grease on gaskets if experienced leaks.
Whipped Cream Dispenser Troubleshooting
Here are some common troubleshooting issues and solutions when using your whipped cream dispenser:
- Clogged nozzle - Run nozzle under warm water. Soak dispenser upside down in warm water to soften any hardened cream.
- Whipped cream too thin/runny - Refrigerate canister before use. Shake dispenser more before dispensing. Use an additional N2O charger.
- Whipped cream not dispensing - Confirm gasket seal is in place. Check that dispenser is adequately charged with N2O cartridge.
- Nitrous oxide leaking from dispenser - Ensure gasket is intact and installed correctly. Replace if worn out. Discard if defective.
- Dispenser won't open - Carefully run under warm water to loosen threads. Use a rubber gripper pad to help open the lid.
Whipped Cream Dispenser Uses
While whipping cream may be a cream whipper's most well-known function, it can also be used to make:
- Flavored whipped creams - Sweeten with sugar or fruit syrups. Add alcohol, extracts, or spices.
- Mousses - Whip chocolate, fruit purees, or nut butters into light mousses.
- Foams - For savory dishes, whip up egg whites or vegetable purees into foamy toppings.
- Espumas - A Spanish technique using gelatin to make warm savory or sweet foams that hold their shape.
- Infusions - Rapidly infuse flavor into spirits, vinegars, oils, and more.
- Cocktails - Make frothy cocktail foams as an edible garnish or layer.
- Milkshakes - Add instant fluffiness and body to milkshakes and smoothies.
- Marinades - Infuse marinades deeply into meats in minutes rather than hours.
So grab some heavy cream and N2O chargers and start experimenting with recipes! A whipped cream dispenser is an endlessly versatile tool for any home cook.
FAQs
How many cartridges do I need per batch?
Most recipes require 1-2 cartridges per 1 pint of liquid. Larger dispensers may need 3 or more cartridges. Follow recipe instructions.
How long does whipped cream stay fresh?
5-7 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Dispensed whipped cream lasts 2-3 days.
Can you reuse nitrous oxide cartridges?
No, N2O cartridges are single-use. The gas is fully released when pierced so they cannot be refilled or reused.
What temperature should ingredients be?
Refrigerator cold is best. Cold ingredients whip up faster and allow the nitrous oxide to fully dissolve. Room temperature cream will still whip but more slowly.
Is it safe to siphon alcohol?
Yes, you can siphon alcohol to make boozy whipped creams or cocktail foams. Ensure the proof is below 55% so the alcohol doesn't prevent the cream from whipping properly.
Can you wash a dispenser in the dishwasher?
Check your model, but most dispenser canisters are dishwasher safe. Hand wash lids, gaskets, valves, and decorator tips instead.
Conclusion
From light and fluffy whipped cream to unique culinary foams, a quality whipping cream dispenser is an invaluable addition to any home kitchen.
Following proper usage, cleaning, and troubleshooting tips will keep your dispenser running smoothly for years.