Cinnamon Almond Whipped Cream

You know what's nice to bring to parties? Fruit. It's healthy, refreshing, and different than other standard offerings. And, you know what takes it to the next level? I'm sure you have a guess: whipped cream! Not just any whipped cream, but homemade with cinnamon and almond extract added. It is so easy to put together. Add some nuts, fresh fruit, dried fruit, and chocolate, and you have an elegant answer to the question, "What can I bring?"

I put this together last weekend as a nice little treat to go with relaxing in front of a Christmas movie. It felt so festive to be sitting by the Christmas tree watching Elf and dipping a fragrant orange slice into just-whipped cream.

The key to good whipped cream is not to over whip it. Most recipes say to whip "until soft peaks form" and they're absolutely right. You want the cream to be just solid but still soft, not hard and stiff. Make sure the bowl you use is larger than you think you need, since the cream will expand as air is whipped into it. It also helps to chill the bowl so the cream stays cold.

You can play around and try different flavors. Peppermint extract would be nice, as would maple. Vanilla extract is standard yet delicious. Strawberries, grapes, dried apricots, and different types of nuts and chocolates make great accompaniments.

Have fun wowing your friends with this easy dessert!



Cinnamon Almond Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon almond extract

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 tablespoon powdered sugar

In a large, chilled bowl, combine ingredients. Beat with a whisk or hand mixer until soft peaks form. Serve with a variety of fruit, chocolate, and nuts.