Quick Answer
Yes, you can use Reddi Whip whipped cream from an aerosol can as a substitute for Cool Whip in most recipes and applications. Reddi Whip and Cool Whip have a similar taste and texture, since they are both whipped cream products made with cream, milk, sugar, and stabilizers. The main difference is that Cool Whip is a whipped cream-flavored vegetable oil spread, while Reddi Whip is real whipped cream.
Comparing Reddi Whip and Cool Whip
Reddi Whip and Cool Whip are both sweetened whipped cream products sold in grocery stores. Here is a comparison:
| Reddi Whip | Cool Whip | |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Cream, skim milk, sugar, corn syrup, natural and artificial flavors, mono and diglycerides, carrageenan, propellant | Water, hydrogenated vegetable oil (including coconut and palm kernel oils), high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, skim milk, light cream, contains less than 2% of sodium caseinate (a milk derivative), natural and artificial flavor, xanthan and guar gums, polysorbate 60, sorbitan monostearate, beta carotene (color) |
| Type | Aerosol whipped cream | Whipped topping |
| Fat Content | 5g fat per 2 tbsp | 0g fat per 2 tbsp |
| Calories | 50 calories per 2 tbsp | 20 calories per 2 tbsp |
As you can see, the main difference is that Reddi Whip is an aerosol can of real whipped cream made with dairy ingredients like cream and milk. Cool Whip is a whipped topping made from vegetable oil and does not contain real cream.
However, both products are sweet, light, fluffy, and can be used to top desserts or fold into recipes similarly. So in most cases, Reddi Whip can substitute for Cool Whip.
Using Reddi Whip in Place of Cool Whip
Here are some tips for replacing Cool Whip with Reddi Whip:
– Use the same amount called for in the recipe – Cool Whip and Reddi Whip have similar densities.
– Shake the Reddi Whip can well before spraying. This aerates the whipped cream for optimal fluffiness.
– Spray the Reddi Whip directly onto the dessert or fold it gently into no-bake recipes like cheesecake fillings, puddings, mousses, etc. Overmixing can cause it to deflate.
– Add Reddi Whip just before serving, as it will not stay stable as long as Cool Whip. Cool Whip has stabilizers that allow it to hold its shape longer.
– Expect a slightly lighter, more creamy texture and flavor due to the real dairy ingredients.
– Be aware Reddi Whip has more calories and fat since it contains real cream. This can affect the nutrition of recipes.
– For stable whipped cream frostings or decorations, whip heavy cream yourself instead of using Reddi Whip. The propellant can deflate whipped cream over time.
Recipes Using Cool Whip
Here are some common ways that Cool Whip is used that Reddi Whip can substitute in:
– Toppings for desserts like cakes, brownies, cookies, ice cream sundaes
– Fruit salads or ambrosia
– Cheesecakes, cream pies, mousse recipes
– Mix-ins for desserts like trifles or layered desserts
– Frostings and fillings paired with cream cheese or pudding
– Hot chocolate or milkshake toppings
– Smoothies or milkshakes
In all of these cases, you can simply spray or dollop the same amount of Reddi Whip instead of Cool Whip. The results may be slightly less stiff but will still be sweet and creamy.
Advantages of Reddi Whip
For some recipes and purposes, Reddi Whip may be preferable:
– Made with real dairy cream, for lighter texture and flavor
– No trans fats or hydrogenated oils
– Does not need to be thawed or whipped
– More natural compared to highly processed Cool Whip
– Convenient aerosol can is ready to use for quick topping or garnishing
– Versatile for both sweet and savory uses like coffee drinks or potatoes
– Widely available in grocery stores next to other whipped cream products
So if you prefer the real cream taste and want to avoid artificial ingredients, Reddi Whip is a good option to replace Cool Whip.
Disadvantages of Reddi Whip
There are a few downsides to be aware of when using Reddi Whip instead of Cool Whip:
– Not as stable for frosting cakes or decorating desserts
– Must be used right after spraying, doesn’t hold shape well long-term
– Can deflate faster once exposed to air
– Higher in calories and fat since it contains real cream
– Sweetness and flavor can vary between cans
– Needs to be refrigerated once can is opened
– Avoid spraying directly into hot foods or drinks, as cream may curdle
So for recipes where you need a very stable whipped cream with consistent flavor, Cool Whip may work better than Reddi Whip. But for simple dessert topping or incorporating into no-bake recipes, Reddi Whip makes a fine substitute.
Storing and Handling Reddi Whip
To get the best results from Reddi Whip:
– Use by the expiration date printed on the bottom of the can.
– Refrigerate unused Reddi Whip with the nozzle covered once dispensed, and use within 5-7 days.
– Shake the can well before each use to remix and aerate the cream.
– Keep the can upright when spraying to get the proper foam texture.
– Don’t overmix into recipes, as the propellant can cause Reddi Whip to deflate.
– Rinse nozzle immediately after use if switching between dairy and non-dairy Reddi Whip.
By following these tips, you can enjoy Reddi Whip whipped cream and get optimal results when using it in place of Cool Whip.
Non-Dairy Reddi Whip Options
For people avoiding dairy, Reddi-wip does make dairy-free alternatives:
– Almond Milk Reddi-Wip – contains almond milk, sugar, coconut oil, natural flavors.
– Coconut Milk Reddi-Wip – contains coconut milk, sugar, contains 2% or less of natural flavor, carrageenan, gellan gum, potassium citrate.
These products will have a different nutrition profile with no dairy fat or cholesterol, and a lighter coconut or almond flavor. But they can whip up nicely and substitute for dairy Reddi Whip or non-dairy Cool Whip in desserts.
Homemade Whipped Cream
You can also easily make whipped cream at home as a substitute for products like Cool Whip or Reddi Whip. Simply whip heavy whipping cream with a mixer or whisk until it forms soft peaks. Then mix in sugar and vanilla or other flavors as desired.
The advantages of homemade whipped cream include:
– You control the ingredients – just cream, sugar, and flavors
– Much lower cost than store-bought
– Can be made with heavy cream for richer results or half-and-half for lighter
– Easily customize sweetness and flavor
– Pipe or scoop as needed for stability
The drawback is that homemade whipped cream requires more effort and doesn’t hold its shape as long. But for an all-natural, freshly whipped topping, it can be ideal in many dessert recipes.
Conclusion
In summary, Reddi Whip is a suitable substitute for Cool Whip in most desserts, snacks, and recipes. While it has a different ingredient list with real cream, both products provide a sweet whipped texture when topping or folding into foods. Reddi Whip may not be as structurally stable for decorating cakes or long term storage. But its convenience, real ingredients, and availability make it a great option over Cool Whip for simple everyday uses. Consider the advantages and disadvantages when deciding which is best for your specific cooking or baking needs.