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light cream.

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ALSO KNOWN AS

coffee creamtable cream

Recipes with light cream + Add to pantry

SERVING

CALORIES

195

PROTEIN

3.0g

CARBS

3.7g

FAT

19.1g

FIBER

NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g

Everything in this ingredient.

MACRONUTRIENTS

Calories195kcal—

Protein3.0g6%

Carbohydrates3.7g1%

Fiber0g0%

Sugar3.7g7%

Total fat19.1g24%

Saturated fat10.2g51%

Trans fat0.63g—

Cholesterol59mg20%

Water73.8g—

MINERALS

Sodium72mg3%

Potassium136mg3%

Calcium91mg7%

Iron0.05mg0%

Magnesium9.0mg2%

Phosphorus92mg7%

Zinc0.32mg3%

Copper0.01mg1%

Manganese0.01mg0%

Selenium4.6µg8%

VITAMINS

Vitamin A120µg13%

Vitamin C0.80mg1%

Vitamin D1.1µg6%

Vitamin E0.12mg1%

Vitamin K1.7µg1%

Thiamin (B1)0.02mg2%

Riboflavin (B2)0.19mg15%

Niacin (B3)0.09mg1%

Pantothenic acid (B5)0.44mg9%

Vitamin B60.04mg2%

Folate (B9)2.0µg1%

Vitamin B120.14µg6%

%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.

MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS

How much is what.

1 cup240g

1 tablespoon15g

1 teaspoon5g

1 ml1g

1 liter1000g

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why eat it.

✓Provides calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for strong bones and teeth.
✓A source of fat-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function, and Vitamin D for calcium absorption.
✓Contains complete proteins (casein and whey) necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
✓Offers a concentrated source of energy from its milk fat content.

COOKING TIPS

In the kitchen.

1Due to its lower fat content (18-30%), light cream can curdle if boiled. Add it to hot dishes like soups and sauces at the end of the cooking process over low heat.
2To prevent curdling when adding to hot liquids, temper the cream by slowly whisking a small amount of the hot liquid into the cream before adding it back to the pot.
3Light cream is excellent for adding richness to coffee, oatmeal, and scrambled eggs without the heaviness of heavy cream.
4It will not whip into stable peaks like heavy cream. For a lighter whipped topping, use heavy or whipping cream instead.

STORAGE

Keep it fresh.

Store in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and keep the container tightly sealed.
Once opened, use within 5 to 7 days for best quality and to prevent spoilage.
Avoid freezing light cream, as the thawing process can cause the fat to separate, resulting in a grainy texture.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Is light cream healthy?

Light cream provides essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus for bone health, and fat-soluble vitamins such as A and D. It also contains complete proteins. However, it is still relatively high in fat and calories, so it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How much fat and calories are in light cream?

Per 100g, light cream contains approximately 195 calories and 19.1g of fat. It also provides about 2.96g of protein and 3.66g of carbohydrates. The fat content is lower than heavy cream but higher than milk.

Is light cream suitable for weight loss?

While light cream has fewer calories and fat than heavy cream, it is still a calorie-dense food. Consuming it in moderation can fit into a weight loss plan, but excessive use may contribute to a calorie surplus. Opt for smaller portions or use it as an occasional treat.

Is light cream vegan?

No, light cream is not vegan. It is a dairy product derived from cow's milk, making it unsuitable for a vegan diet. Vegetarians, however, can consume it.

Is light cream lactose-free?

No, light cream is not naturally lactose-free. As a dairy product, it contains lactose, the natural sugar found in milk. Individuals with lactose intolerance should avoid it or seek lactose-free cream alternatives.

What is light cream used for in cooking?

Light cream is versatile in cooking, often used to enrich sauces, soups, and stews without adding the full richness of heavy cream. It's also popular in coffee, tea, and as a topping for desserts, offering a lighter dairy flavor and texture.

Can light cream be whipped like heavy cream?

No, light cream typically cannot be whipped into stiff peaks like heavy cream. Its fat content, which is usually between 18-30%, is too low to create a stable whipped structure. For whipping, heavy cream (36% fat or higher) is required.

How should I store light cream?

Light cream should always be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Keep it in its original sealed container. Once opened, it typically lasts for about 5-7 days, but always check the 'best by' date and look for any signs of spoilage.

What is the difference between light cream and heavy cream?

The primary difference between light cream and heavy cream is their fat content. Light cream generally contains 18-30% milk fat, while heavy cream (or heavy whipping cream) contains 36% or more milk fat. This higher fat content allows heavy cream to be whipped and provides a richer texture.

Can light cream be frozen?

Yes, light cream can be frozen, but its texture may change upon thawing. It tends to separate and become slightly grainy, making it less ideal for uses where a smooth texture is crucial, like in coffee. It's generally best used in cooked dishes like soups or casseroles after thawing.

RECIPES