Horizon Organic Heavy Whipping Cream is a versatile dairy product cherished by many for its rich flavor and culinary applications. Made from the high-fat portion of fresh milk, this organic cream contains 36-40% milkfat, giving it a luxurious texture and the ability to whip into a stable foam.

When stored properly in the refrigerator, unopened Horizon Organic Heavy Whipping Cream typically lasts 1-2 weeks beyond the printed date on the carton. This extended shelf life is due to the ultra-pasteurization process, which exposes the cream to high temperatures to eliminate bacteria and prolong freshness.

Once opened, the cream should be used within 7-10 days for optimal quality. Proper storage and handling are crucial to maintaining its freshness. Keep the cream refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) and always seal the container tightly after each use to prevent contamination and absorption of other flavors.

Understanding Heavy Whipping Cream

Heavy whipping cream is a rich dairy product with high fat content. It offers versatility in cooking and baking while providing nutritional benefits, especially when organic.

Composition and Nutritional Profile

Heavy whipping cream contains 36-40% milkfat. This high fat content gives it a luxurious texture and allows it to whip into stable peaks. A tablespoon of heavy cream typically provides:

• 50-60 calories
• 5-6 grams of fat
• 0-1 gram of carbohydrates
• 0-1 gram of protein

Heavy cream also contains small amounts of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D. The exact nutritional profile may vary slightly between brands and organic versus conventional options.

Benefits of Organic Heavy Cream

Organic heavy cream, like Horizon Organic, comes from cows raised without synthetic hormones or antibiotics. These cows graze on organic pastures, free from chemical pesticides and fertilizers.

Organic heavy cream may offer:

• Higher omega-3 fatty acid content
• More conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
• Fewer pesticide residues

These factors can contribute to a purer taste and potentially enhanced nutritional value. Organic heavy cream also supports sustainable farming practices and animal welfare standards.

Shelf Life and Freshness

Heavy cream’s shelf life depends on storage conditions and packaging. Proper handling extends freshness and prevents spoilage. Recognizing signs of deterioration ensures safe consumption.

Typical Shelf Life of Heavy Cream

Unopened heavy cream typically lasts 1-2 weeks past the best-if-used-by date when refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below. Once opened, it remains fresh for 3-5 days.

Ultra-pasteurized varieties may last longer due to the high-temperature treatment process. These can stay fresh for up to a month unopened.

Freezing extends shelf life to 3-4 months. However, freezing may affect texture and whipping properties.

Signs of Freshness and Spoilage

Fresh heavy cream has a smooth texture and sweet, mild aroma. It pours easily and whips to stiff peaks.

Signs of spoilage include:

• Sour smell
• Thick or lumpy texture
• Discoloration (yellowing or mold growth)
• Curdling when added to hot liquids

If any of these signs appear, discard the cream immediately. Tasting is not recommended to check for spoilage.

Proper storage in airtight containers away from strong-smelling foods helps maintain freshness. Always check the cream before use, even if within the best-if-used-by date.

Proper Storage Practices

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of Horizon Organic Heavy Whipping Cream. Correct temperature control and handling practices can significantly extend its shelf life.

Refrigeration and Temperature Control

Store Horizon Organic Heavy Whipping Cream in the main body of the refrigerator, not in the door. The fridge door experiences temperature fluctuations, which can shorten the cream’s lifespan. Set the refrigerator temperature between 35°F and 40°F (1.7°C to 4.4°C) for optimal preservation.

Keep the cream container tightly sealed when not in use. This prevents absorption of odors from other foods and reduces exposure to bacteria. Place the cream towards the back of the fridge where temperatures are most consistent.

Use clean utensils when scooping cream to avoid introducing contaminants. Return the cream to the refrigerator promptly after each use to minimize time at room temperature.

Can You Freeze Heavy Whipping Cream?

Yes, Horizon Organic Heavy Whipping Cream can be frozen for extended storage. Pour the cream into an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion. Label the container with the freezing date.

Frozen heavy cream can last up to 4 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. The texture may change slightly after freezing, becoming grainy or separated. To restore smoothness, whisk the thawed cream vigorously before use.

Frozen cream works best in cooked dishes rather than for whipping. For whipping purposes, it’s better to use fresh, refrigerated cream.

Usage and Applications

Horizon Organic Heavy Whipping Cream is a versatile ingredient with numerous culinary applications. Its high fat content makes it ideal for creating luscious whipped cream and enhancing various dishes.

Whipping Cream into Whipped Cream

To make whipped cream, chill the cream and equipment beforehand. Pour the cold cream into a mixing bowl and whip with an electric mixer or whisk. Start on low speed and gradually increase.

As air incorporates, the cream will thicken and form soft peaks. Continue whipping for stiff peaks. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can lead to butter formation.

Sweeteners and flavorings like vanilla can be added during the whipping process. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

Whipped cream is perfect for topping desserts, fruits, and hot beverages.

Incorporating into Baking and Sauces

Heavy whipping cream adds richness and moisture to baked goods. It’s often used in cake batters, cookie doughs, and pastry fillings. The cream’s fat content contributes to a tender crumb in cakes and flaky texture in pastries.

For sauces, heavy cream creates a silky consistency and helps emulsify ingredients. It’s essential in Alfredo sauce and can elevate pan sauces for meats. When reducing cream-based sauces, simmer gently to prevent curdling.

In soups, a splash of cream adds body and smoothness. It’s also useful for tempering spicy dishes by mellowing heat.

Food Safety and Spoilage Prevention

Proper handling and storage of Horizon Organic Heavy Whipping Cream is crucial for maintaining its quality and safety. Understanding how to identify spoilage and extend the cream’s shelf life can help prevent foodborne illness and reduce waste.

Identifying Spoilage

Signs of spoiled heavy whipping cream include an off or sour smell, visible mold growth, and changes in texture. Fresh cream should have a smooth, consistent texture. If lumps or clumps form, this may indicate spoilage.

Discoloration or unusual streaks in the cream can also signal that it’s no longer safe to consume. Always check the expiration date printed on the carton, but remember that cream can spoil before this date if not stored properly.

Trust your senses. If the cream smells rancid or has an unusual appearance, it’s best to discard it rather than risk consuming spoiled dairy.

Extending the Life of Your Cream

To maximize the shelf life of Horizon Organic Heavy Whipping Cream, store it promptly in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Keep the cream in its original container and tightly seal it after each use.

Avoid storing cream in the refrigerator door, where temperature fluctuations occur. Instead, place it on a shelf towards the back of the refrigerator where temperatures remain more stable.

Use clean utensils when scooping cream to prevent introducing bacteria. Freezing can extend the cream’s life for up to 6-8 months, but may affect its texture when thawed.

Consider transferring small portions to airtight containers for freezing. This allows for easier thawing of only the amount needed, reducing waste and maintaining freshness.

Special Considerations for Horizon Organic

Horizon Organic’s heavy whipping cream has unique characteristics that affect its shelf life and quality. The company employs specific processes and ingredients to enhance the product’s longevity and performance.

Ultra-Pasteurization and Its Effects

Horizon Organic uses ultra-pasteurization for their heavy whipping cream. This process heats the cream to a higher temperature than standard pasteurization, extending its shelf life significantly. Ultra-pasteurized cream can last up to a month when unopened and refrigerated properly.

The ultra-pasteurization process also affects the cream’s texture and whipping properties. It may whip up slightly differently compared to traditionally pasteurized creams, often resulting in a more stable foam.

Packaging Innovations

Horizon Organic utilizes innovative packaging designs to preserve their heavy whipping cream’s freshness. Their cartons are specially designed to protect the product from light and air exposure, two factors that can accelerate spoilage.

The company offers their organic heavy whipping cream in both pint and quart sizes. These packaging options cater to different consumer needs and help minimize waste. The cartons feature clear expiration dates and storage instructions to guide consumers in maximizing the cream’s shelf life.

Horizon’s packaging is also designed for easy pouring and resealing, which helps maintain the cream’s quality after opening. Proper resealing is crucial for preventing contamination and extending the cream’s usability.

DIY Uses of Heavy Whipping Cream

Heavy whipping cream is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into various homemade products and used creatively in cooking. Its high fat content makes it ideal for whipping and churning into different textures.

Creating Homemade Butter

To make butter, pour cold heavy whipping cream into a food processor or stand mixer. Whip on high speed for 5-7 minutes until the cream separates into butter and buttermilk. Strain the butter through cheesecloth, squeezing out excess liquid. Rinse the butter under cold water, kneading it to remove any remaining buttermilk. Add salt if desired. Shape the butter into a log or press it into a mold. Homemade butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for longer storage.

Alternative Uses in Home Cooking

Heavy whipping cream adds richness to many dishes. It can be whipped into cream cheese by combining it with whole milk and lemon juice, then straining. For sauces, slowly heat cream in a pan and add herbs, spices, or cheese for flavor. Use it to create creamy pasta dishes or add body to soups. Whipped cream can be folded into mousses or used as a topping for desserts. In baking, it enhances the texture of cakes and adds moisture to scones or biscuits.