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How to Make Whipped Cream with Fat-Free Milk?

Published in Dairy Alternatives 3 mins read

While traditional whipped cream relies on the high fat content of heavy cream, you can create a whipped cream-like topping using skim milk, although the texture and stability will differ. The video referenced suggests a quick method, but typically fat-free milk won't whip into stable peaks on its own.

Here's how you can attempt to make a whipped topping with skim milk, understanding that the results will not be the same as traditional whipped cream:

Instructions for Whipping Skim Milk (Based on Limited Info):

While the video excerpt only provides a glimpse, the core concept seems to be rapid whipping. Here’s how you could approach it, keeping in mind success isn't guaranteed.

  1. Chill Everything: Place your skim milk, mixing bowl, and whisk (or beaters) in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before starting. Extremely cold temperatures help with any potential air incorporation.

  2. Whip Vigorously: Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), whip the skim milk on high speed. The video suggests a very short time (30 seconds), but you likely will need to whip it longer.

  3. Watch Closely: Keep a close eye on the milk. You're looking for it to thicken slightly and become foamy. Do not overwhip, as it could collapse.

  4. Stabilize (Optional & Recommended): Because skim milk lacks fat, it won't hold its shape well. Adding a stabilizer is crucial. Options include:

    • Gelatin: Bloom 1/2 teaspoon of gelatin in 1 tablespoon of cold water. After 5 minutes, heat briefly until dissolved. Let cool slightly and whisk into the skim milk while whipping.
    • Cornstarch: Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold skim milk to form a slurry. Heat the remaining skim milk until almost boiling, then whisk in the slurry. Cool completely before whipping.
    • Xanthan Gum: Use very sparingly (1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon) - too much will make it gummy. Add directly to the skim milk before whipping.
  5. Sweeten (Optional): Add a sweetener like powdered sugar or a sugar substitute to taste while whipping.

Important Considerations:

  • Texture: The resulting "whipped cream" will be light and airy, but less rich and creamy than traditional whipped cream. It will also likely deflate more quickly.
  • Stability: Without stabilizers, skim milk foam is very unstable. Use the methods above to improve its longevity.
  • Taste: Skim milk has a distinct flavor. Adding vanilla extract or other flavorings can help improve the taste.
  • Expectations: Be realistic. This is a low-fat alternative, not a perfect replica of whipped cream.

Summary

While the video implies a quick transformation of skim milk into whipped cream, achieving a stable and satisfying result requires effort and potentially stabilizers. You can create a foamy topping, but don't expect the same richness or hold as traditional whipped cream.

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