Starbucks whipped cream is a light and fluffy whipped dairy cream that the coffee chain uses to top many of its hot and cold beverages. It adds a sweet, creamy flavor and texture to drinks like lattes, mochas, Frappuccinos, and more. Here are some key facts about Starbucks whipped cream:
Ingredients
The main ingredients in Starbucks whipped cream are:
- Heavy cream – This is the base of the whipped cream. Heavy cream has a high fat content which allows it to be whipped into a light, airy texture.
- Vanilla syrup – For sweetness and flavor, Starbucks whips their cream with vanilla syrup.
- Carrageenan – A stabilizer and thickener extracted from seaweed. This helps the whipped cream maintain its thickness and structure.
Nutrition
The nutrition facts for 2 tablespoons (1 oz) of Starbucks whipped cream are:
| Calories | 50 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 5g |
| Carbs | 1g |
| Protein | 0g |
As you can see, the whipped cream is high in fat, but contains minimal carbs and protein. The fat comes from the heavy cream base.
How Is It Made?
Starbucks whips their heavy cream with vanilla syrup in industrial mixers to create the signature sweet, fluffy texture. The process involves:
- Pouring pasteurized, chilled heavy cream into a chilled metal mixing bowl
- Adding vanilla syrup for sweetness
- Whipping the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form
- Adding carrageenan and continuing to whip until stiff peaks form
Whipping incorporates air into the cream, while the carrageenan stabilizes the whipped texture. Proper chilling is critical throughout the process. The whipped cream is then portioned into containers for use in stores.
How Is It Served?
Starbucks serves whipped cream in a few different ways:
- Dollops – Baristas add dollops of whipped cream as a finishing touch on top of hot and iced drinks.
- Piping – Cream is piped into decorative designs on the surface of drinks.
- Layering – For layered frappuccinos, whipped cream is incorporated between layers.
Whipped cream adds a creamy sweetness and luxurious mouthfeel to coffee drinks and dessert-style beverages like frappuccinos. The amount of whipped cream can usually be customized when ordering.
Whipped Cream Alternatives
Customers avoiding dairy or wanting a lower calorie option can request these whipped cream alternatives at Starbucks:
- Soy whipped cream – Contains soy milk and vegetable oils for a dairy-free, vegan option.
- Lightly sweet whipped cream – Uses nonfat milk instead of heavy cream for fewer calories and fat.
- No whipped cream – Drinks can be ordered without whipped cream.
Storage
To maintain its fresh, fluffy texture, Starbucks stores any unused whipped cream in refrigerators at temperatures between 33-41°F. It’s good for around 5-7 days when properly stored and handled. The cream must remain chilled right up until it’s served on top of hot beverages.
Conclusion
Starbucks whipped cream gives drinks a sweet, indulgent taste and creamy texture. It’s made by whipping heavy cream, vanilla syrup, and carrageenan stabilizer. Customers can get dairy-free or lower calorie whipped creams. When stored cold, the whipped cream retains its light, airy quality for use in lattes, frappuccinos, and other Starbucks beverages.