How To Freeze Leftover Whipped Cream

I know, I know. Who in the world has a problem with leftover whipped cream?

But let's imagine a hypothetical situation wherein you have misjudged your guests' enthusiasm for whipped cream-topped pie following a big holiday meal, and now you find yourself faced with a fairly large amount left over.

Do you throw it away? Do you save it, knowing that it will likely lose its billowy magic over the next few days?

Let me offer a third option: Freeze your leftover whipped cream for later.

Whipped cream freezes—and thaws—surprisingly well. Just drop mounds of it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze overnight. The next day, peel off the frozen whipped cream clouds and transfer them to a freezer bag or container for longer storage.

When a situation arises for a few spoonfuls of whipped cream, just pull out what you need.

In my opinion, the very best use of these frozen whipped cream puffs is to top a hot mug of cocoa or coffee. Not only do they melt slowly into the hot beverage, providing time-release doses of cream, but they take the edge off a steaming hot cup (without cooling it too much!).

You can also use the leftover whipped cream to top a slice of pie or other dessert - yes, this works! Place the frozen whipped cream on top of your dessert, then thaw at room temperature for 15 minutes or so before serving.

As a dessert topping, the whipped cream holds its shape quite well without becoming grainy or separating, but it does lose some of its perkiness. The frozen edges also have a tendency to crumble as you handle them, as well.

This is perfectly acceptable for a midweek dessert casual family gathering, but less ideal for situations where looks are important, like a dinner party or a special occasion. For those, I'd recommend making a fresh batch of whipped cream.