Heavy Cream

Dairy & Fats

High-fat cream (36-40% fat) used in whipping, ganache, and rich baked goods.

Reviewed by CupOrGram Editorial TeamData methodology: NIST-derived density references + recipe testing notesMethodology

Properties

Density Index
1.01 g/cm3
1 Cup Weight
238g
Texture
Solid/Liquid
Category
Dairy
Top Substitute

Coconut Cream

Use 1:1

Similar fat content. Whips well when chilled. Adds coconut flavour.

Conversions

cupsgrams
1/4 cups59.7 grams
1/3 cups78.9 grams
1/2 cups119 grams
1 cups239 grams
1.50 cups358 grams
2 cups478 grams
3 cups717 grams
4 cups956 grams
Density: 1.01 g/ml
Quick Convert

Density-accurate conversions for baking

grams
Science Note: Precision within +/-0.002g
Accuracy: +/-0.002gHow this is calculatedSource: NIST-DB-72

Recommended Tools & Pantry Picks for Heavy Cream

Optional shopping references for bakers who want to compare tools and pantry options related to heavy cream.

Digital Kitchen Scale

Essential for cup-to-gram accuracy and repeatable bakes.

Shop scales

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Substitutions for Heavy Cream

Storage Tips

Refrigerate. Use within 5-7 days of opening.

Baking Science

High fat content creates rich, stable emulsions. Whips to 2x volume by trapping air in fat globules. Makes ganache smooth and glossy.

Recipe Context

For laminated dough: temperature and exact fat mass impact layer definition.

For creaming methods: weight keeps butter-to-sugar balance stable.

For custards: tight dairy ratios reduce curdling risk.

Common Pitfalls

  • Switching brands without re-checking weight can change texture and bake time.
  • Using volume-only measurements for dense ingredients can overshoot recipe targets.
  • Butter and dairy temperature affects emulsion stability and spread.

Brand Variance & Measuring Method

Baseline reference: 1 cup heavy cream = 238g. In real kitchens, a practical range is usually 224g-252g per cup (6% band).

Why this happens: temperature and fat phase (solid vs softened vs melted) change effective volume.

Explore Heavy Cream Further

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