Name: Lemon Whipped Cream
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 tsp Lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest (packed); 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream (cold); 1/4 powdered sugar

This homemade Lemon Whipped Cream Recipe is sweet, citrusy, and so delicious. With just five ingredients, it’s simple to prepare. Thanks to my tips and tricks, it turns out light, airy, and perfectly creamy every single time. Use it to add fruity flavor to all your favorite recipes and desserts!

slice of lemon blueberry cheesecake with lemon whipped cream topping

Sweet and Citrusy Lemon Whipped Cream

When it comes to desserts, I’m all about the toppings. Options like my maple whipped cream and strawberry sauce elevate any treat, but this lemon whipped cream frosting stands in a league of its own.

Bright, fruity, and sweet, it’s the perfect way to lighten any dish and brings an element of spring into your kitchen. What really sets it apart is the rich vanilla flavor infused into every bite and the creamy, fluffy consistency you won’t get with any store-bought whipped topping.

Prepare a batch ahead of time, and use it as a fishing touch with ice cream, cheesecake, and lemon ice box pie. Whether you’re preparing for a party or just want to elevate an everyday dessert, this recipe never disappoints!

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Recipe Ingredients

Lemon Juice and Zest: You can’t make lemon whipped cream without lemon! We’re using both the juice and the zest for a bold, bright, citrusy flavor. Pro tip. Zest the lemon first to make the process easy, and avoid including any of the white pith as it tends to be pretty bitter.

Vanilla Bean Paste: This adds a rich, aromatic vanilla flavor that is more natural than vanilla extract, adding depth and a touch of luxury to the taste. That said, vanilla extract will also work if that’s what you have on hand.

Heavy Cream: This forms the base of the topping. Make sure it’s cold, or it won’t whip up properly!

Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar is the main sweetener and also helps to achieve the smooth, fluffy consistency needed for the topping.

How to Make Homemade Lemon Whipped Cream

Step 1. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla bean paste, and powdered sugar on medium speed until well incorporated. Pro tip. Chill the mixing bowl and beaters (or whisk) in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before you begin. This makes the process so much easier, preventing it from melting and becoming runny!

Step 2. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. This means that when you lift the beaters, the cream should hold its shape and not fall over. Pro tip. Check the beaters for any “left behind” lemon zest. Scrape it off, and add that lemon zest back to the whipped cream for the best flavor!

Step 3. Use immediately, or transfer your lemon whipped cream icing to the refrigerator to chill.

Tips for Success

Adjust Sweetness: Taste as you go and adjust the amount of powdered sugar to suit your preference.
Use Cold Ingredients: Chill the heavy cream, mixing bowl, and beaters before starting to ensure the cream whips up quickly and holds its shape.
Whip to Soft Peaks: Stop whipping as soon as soft peaks form to avoid overbeating, which can make the cream grainy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make lemon whipped cream in advance?

Yes, you can make it ahead. However, I like to make it right before I am about to use it to ensure it doesn’t deflate. If you decide to make this recipe ahead of time, just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Be sure to give it a quick re-whip before serving to restore its fluffy texture.

How do I prevent my lemon whipped cream frosting from becoming runny?

Ensure your heavy cream is cold before whipping, and avoid overwhipping, which can cause the cream to break and separate. If it becomes too runny, try chilling it and whipping again until it thickens.

How should I use lemon whipped cream icing?

Use this whipped topping with all your favorite recipes! The options truly are endless. However, if you’re looking for inspiration, I love to pair it with options like vanilla cheesecake, lemon pound cake, lemon blueberry cheesecake, ice cream, and buttermilk pancakes.

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I hope you love this Homemade Lemon Whipped Cream Recipe! It is light and airy with the perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors, ideal for enhancing a variety of recipes. If you do give this recipe a try, I want to know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @‌butterloveandsalt on INSTAGRAM. Your reviews help support Butter, Love & Salt and make it possible for me to continue to create delicious recipes.

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