Nutrition Diet: How many calories are in 1 serving of whipped cream?

October 17, 2025 •

5 min read

With some reports indicating a significant caloric difference between store-bought and homemade versions, the question of how many calories are in 1 serving of whipped cream? is not as simple as it seems. Understanding the calorie count and ingredients is key to incorporating this delicious topping into a balanced diet without derailing your nutritional goals.

Quick Summary

This guide breaks down the calorie and nutritional variations of whipped cream, comparing canned versus homemade options. It explains how serving size and preparation methods impact overall calorie count, offers healthier alternatives, and provides practical advice for mindful consumption.

Key Points

Calories vary significantly: A 2-tablespoon serving of canned whipped cream has around 15-20 calories, while a homemade version from heavy cream can contain over 100 calories.
Serving size is crucial: Calorie counts depend on the specific serving size, which is commonly 1 or 2 tablespoons, but can be easily over-poured from a can.
Homemade offers control: Making whipped cream from scratch allows you to use fewer, more natural ingredients and control the amount and type of sweetener.
Canned versions have additives: Store-bought whipped toppings often contain hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup, and stabilizers to extend shelf life.
Consider healthier alternatives: Options like coconut whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or blended cottage cheese offer creamy toppings with different nutritional profiles.
Moderation is key: To include whipped cream in a balanced diet, it's best to consume it in small, controlled portions and pair it with nutrient-dense foods like fruit.
Check for intolerances: As a dairy product, whipped cream may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Plant-based options are a good alternative.

Whipped cream is a beloved topping for desserts and beverages, but its nutritional content, especially the calorie count, can vary significantly depending on how it's made and packaged. For those mindful of their dietary intake, understanding these differences is the first step toward making informed choices.

The Calorie Breakdown: Understanding Serving Sizes

The calorie count for a single serving of whipped cream can fluctuate widely. The standard serving size for commercially canned whipped cream, such as Reddi-Wip, is often cited as 2 tablespoons (roughly 15 grams). For this type of product, you can expect a calorie count in the range of 15 to 20 calories per two-tablespoon serving. This lower number is often due to the inclusion of stabilizers, corn syrup, and vegetable oils, which are used to achieve a consistent texture and longer shelf life. However, the calorie count is much higher for homemade whipped cream made from heavy whipping cream. A single tablespoon of heavy whipping cream contains approximately 52 calories, so a two-tablespoon serving could easily contain over 100 calories. The reason for this is simple: homemade whipped cream is a dairy product with a much higher fat content, typically made from cream with at least 36% milk fat. The air incorporated during the whipping process also plays a role in volume versus weight.

Canned vs. Homemade: A Calorie Comparison

When deciding between store-bought and homemade whipped cream, it's essential to consider more than just calories. The ingredients and overall nutritional profile are also important factors. The table below provides a quick comparison to help you choose the best option for your dietary needs.


Feature	Canned Whipped Cream	Homemade Whipped Cream
Calories (per 2 tbsp)	~15-20 calories	~100-110 calories
Fat Content	Often contains hydrogenated vegetable oils and less dairy fat.	Higher in natural dairy fat, including saturated fat.
Ingredients	Water, high fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, skim milk, stabilizers, artificial flavors.	Heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract.
Flavor Profile	Lighter, often sweeter, with a slight artificial taste.	Richer, creamier, and more natural flavor. Sweetness can be customized.
Shelf Life	Longer shelf life due to preservatives and processing.	Shorter; typically lasts 1-2 days refrigerated.
Dietary Suitability	Generally lower calorie but contains more additives and refined sugars.	Higher calorie but uses fewer, more natural ingredients.

Deconstructing Whipped Cream: Key Nutrients and Ingredients

Regardless of the type, whipped cream is primarily a source of fat and sugar, with minimal amounts of other key nutrients. Heavy whipping cream, the foundation of the homemade version, is rich in fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K. These vitamins are better absorbed by the body when consumed with fat. It also contains small amounts of minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which are important for bone health. However, the fat is mostly saturated, which should be consumed in moderation. While some recent research suggests a more nuanced view on dairy fat and heart health, the prevailing advice is to limit intake of saturated fats. The sugar content is also a factor. Commercial whipped toppings and even homemade versions can be high in added sugars, which contribute to excess calorie intake. For this reason, it's crucial to consider the overall impact on your diet.

Healthy Whipped Cream Alternatives

For those looking for a lower-fat, lower-sugar, or dairy-free option, several alternatives can provide a similar creamy texture.

Coconut Whipped Cream: Made from full-fat canned coconut milk, this is a popular vegan alternative. The key is to chill the can of coconut milk for at least 24 hours so the cream solidifies, allowing you to whip it into a fluffy topping. It provides a rich texture with a subtle coconut flavor.
Greek Yogurt Topping: Mixing plain Greek yogurt with a bit of sweetener (like honey or stevia) and a splash of vanilla extract creates a tangy and protein-rich topping. It won't have the same light, airy texture but offers a healthier, more nutrient-dense option.
Blended Cottage Cheese: A surprising but effective alternative involves blending cottage cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. This creates a high-protein, lower-fat, and less-processed option compared to most commercial toppings.
Fat-Free Whipped 'Cream': A blend of non-fat dry milk, ice water, and egg white (pasteurized for safety) can be whipped into a fluffy, fat-free topping. This method offers a sweet treat with minimal calories.

Incorporating Whipped Cream into a Balanced Diet

Moderation is the golden rule when it comes to enjoying treats like whipped cream. Instead of a large dollop, a small amount can satisfy a craving without a major caloric impact. Consider these tips for mindful consumption:

Pair with nutrient-dense foods: Serve a small portion of whipped cream with fresh fruits like berries or melon, which are rich in fiber and vitamins. The fiber can help slow down the absorption of sugars and fats.
Make it yourself to control ingredients: By making your own whipped cream, you have full control over the type and amount of sweetener. You can opt for lower-calorie or natural sweeteners like stevia, xylitol, or a small amount of honey.
Use it as an occasional treat: Save whipped cream for special occasions rather than as an everyday addition. This mindful approach helps prevent overconsumption and promotes a healthier overall diet.
Be aware of commercial additives: Canned whipped cream can contain additives like carrageenan and high fructose corn syrup. If you have dietary sensitivities or prefer natural ingredients, making your own or choosing plant-based alternatives is a better choice.

Conclusion

While a single serving of whipped cream might seem small, the calorie count can vary significantly based on whether it's canned or homemade. Pressurized canned versions are generally lower in calories but contain more processed ingredients, while homemade whipped cream is higher in calories and fat but uses fewer, more natural components. The key to enjoying whipped cream on a diet is to practice moderation and be aware of your options. Whether you choose to indulge in a small portion, make a homemade version with controlled sugar, or opt for a healthier alternative, it's possible to enjoy this classic treat as part of a balanced and nutritious diet.

Healthline has an in-depth article on the nutritional pros and cons of heavy whipping cream that can be a useful resource for further reading.

Frequently Asked Questions

Canned whipped cream generally has fewer calories and fat per serving than homemade, but it contains more additives, preservatives, and processed ingredients like corn syrup and hydrogenated oils. Homemade whipped cream, while higher in calories, is made with more natural ingredients.

The official serving size is typically 2 tablespoons, though this varies between products. Be mindful that it is easy to consume more than a single serving when topping a dessert or drink.

Heavy whipping cream, when consumed in moderation, can provide fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and certain minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Your body can absorb these vitamins more effectively when paired with fat.

Homemade whipped cream made from heavy whipping cream with a zero-calorie sweetener can fit into a low-carb or keto diet due to its low carbohydrate content. However, canned versions often contain added sugars and high-fructose corn syrup, making them less suitable.

To reduce calories, you can use a lower-fat cream alternative, replace some of the sugar with a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia, or make a substitute entirely using ingredients like Greek yogurt or coconut milk.

Whipped cream is made from dairy cream, whereas Cool Whip is an imitation whipped topping made primarily from water, vegetable oils, and corn syrups. Cool Whip is designed to be more stable and has a longer shelf life.

Yes, as a dairy product, traditional whipped cream contains lactose. Individuals with lactose intolerance should opt for dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut whipped cream, or use lactose-free cream options.