Whipped cream is a dessert topping or sweet condiment created by beating heavy cream with an electric mixer, hand whisk, or fork.
The formation of small butterfat globules traps air inside them, which causes the whipped cream to expand in volume creating a light and fluffy texture.
This process lends it a distinctively sweet flavour, as well as it is a signature creamy consistency.
Cream chargers are the cylinders used to inject nitrous oxide into the heavy cream during this process. Nitrous oxide expands on contact with the heavy cream’s fat molecules, helping it become airy and light while giving it a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cream chargers are a quick and easy way to create delicious whipped cream for drinks, desserts, and other treats. Several different types of cream chargers are available, each with unique advantages and disadvantages.
The 8-gram charger
The most common type of cream charger is known as an 8-gram charger. This charger contains 8 grams of nitrous oxide gas and fits into standard whipped cream dispensers.
It is lightweight and relatively inexpensive compared to larger models. While this may seem the ideal choice, you should note that one 8-gram charger only produces enough nitrogen dioxide to make one pint of whipped cream. If you need more than one pint, you must use multiple 8-gram chargers.
The 16-gram charger
The 16-gram charger is larger than the 8-gram model and contains twice as much nitrous oxide gas, making it ideal for making large batches of whipped cream at once.
It also fits into any standard whipped cream dispenser and produces a higher volume of nitrogen dioxide when compared to the smaller 8-gram charger.
The only downside to this type of charger is that it costs slightly more than an 8-gram charger due to its size and weight.
The 24-gram charger
For those who require even more significant amounts of whipped cream in a single session, the 24-gram charger is available.
This model is much larger than the 8- and 16-gram versions, making it more expensive and heavier. However, it does produce three times as much nitrogen dioxide, allowing for the production of up to three pints of whipped cream in a single session.
The 36-gram charger
For those who need an even greater volume of gas for their whipped cream needs, there is the 36-gram charger.
This model is suitable for commercial use or catering events that require large quantities of whipped cream in a short period.
It produces four times as much nitrogen dioxide as an 8-gram charger and weighs significantly more than its smaller counterparts.
The 48-gram charger
The most significant type of cream charger currently available is the 48-gram charger. This model produces five times as much nitrogen dioxide as an 8-gram charger and can produce up to five pints of whipped cream in a single session.
It is ideal for commercial use or significant catering events and comes at a hefty price tag due to its size and weight.
Remember to follow the safety instructions
No matter which type of cream charger you choose, following all safety instructions when using them with your dispenser is essential.
Make sure to fill your dispenser, and always ensure that the gas is ultimately released before disposing of the charger.
By following these simple steps, you can get the most out of your cream chargers without any risk of injury or damage.
How to make the perfect whipped cream for your charger
Making the perfect whipped cream is an art form and one that should be taken seriously when utilising your cream charger. To achieve maximum results:
- Begin by chilling your ingredients before use. This process will ensure you get a light, airy texture critical for producing the ideal whipped cream.
- Once cold, add your whipping cream and sugar to the dispenser and charge with your charger.
- Shake vigorously until desired consistency is achieved, then serve or store as needed.
Following these tips, you can easily make delicious whipped cream with any cream charger available today.
How to store your whipped cream
After making your whipped cream, careful storage is essential for its longevity. For best results, store the dispenser with the cream in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Keeping the temperature between 10°C and 15°C when storing is critical to ensure that spoilage is avoided.
To keep the nitrous oxide gas intact, ensure you do not shake or disturb the canister during storage, as this will release it.
The bottom line
With new uses for cream chargers emerging, it is easy to see why they remain so popular. Several types of cream charger delivery options are available to suit your needs, whether you want to make a single pint of whipped cream or need enough gas for large-scale catering events.
From 8-gram models perfect for home use up to 48-gram versions used in commercial settings, knowing which type of charger best fits your requirements is vital to getting the most out of this fantastic product.
With careful use and proper disposal, cream chargers can provide delicious treats with minimal effort and maximum flavour. So what are you waiting for? Get your hands on some cream chargers and get creative in the kitchen.
