Freezing Dessert With Double Cream

Asked by Rachelli22. Answered on 25th June 2015

Full question

Hi, last week Nigella's recipe for whipping double cream with meringue and fruit was on TV and I followed the recipe but then noticed it says not to freeze on the cream carton? Is this simply because double cream usually doesn't freeze well or does freezing cream make you ill? It's all in the freezer but I want to check it'll be ok before eating!

Our answer

We suspect that you are referring to Nigella's Meringue Gelato Cake (from Nigelissima and on the Nigella website). This is a type of "semifreddo" iced dessert that is made with whipped cream and liqueur. Once the mixture has been whisked it will freeze well and should be served direct from the freezer. It is perfectly safe to eat.

Cartons of cream may suggest not to freeze in the instructions and this is as liquid cream does not freeze that well. Creams with a fat content of less than 35%, such as whipping and singe cream, will tend to separate when they thaw. Double cream has a higher fat content and is more stable but can sometimes be a little grainy when it is thawed and usually does not whip very well if it has been frozen and then thawed, though it is fine to use in cooking. If you want to freeze leftover whipping or double cream it is beat to whip if first and freeze it in the whipped form. Thaw the whipped cream overnight in the fridge before using.