If you've bought a large carton of double cream and can't use it all before it goes off, freezing is a practical option. Here's everything you need to know about freezing double cream successfully.
Can You Freeze Double Cream?
Yes — double cream can be frozen. However, the freezing and thawing process affects the texture. The fat and water in cream can separate during freezing, which means thawed cream may look slightly grainy or separated. This doesn't mean it's gone off — it just means the texture has changed.
What Happens to Cream When You Freeze It?
Double cream has a high fat content (minimum 48%), which helps it freeze better than lower-fat creams. When frozen and thawed, it may:
- Appear slightly grainy or separated
- Not whip as stiffly as fresh cream
- Have a slightly different mouthfeel when eaten cold
However, when used in cooking — sauces, soups, baked goods, curries — the texture difference is undetectable once heated.
How to Freeze Double Cream Correctly
Option 1: Freeze in an airtight container
Pour the cream into a freezer-safe airtight container, leaving 2–3cm of space at the top for expansion. Label with the date. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Option 2: Freeze in ice cube trays
This is the most practical method for cooking. Pour cream into an ice cube tray, freeze until solid, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. Each cube is approximately 2 tablespoons — easy to grab exactly the amount you need for a recipe without defrosting a whole portion.
Option 3: Freeze whipped
Whip the cream to soft peaks, then freeze in dollops on a lined baking tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. These frozen whipped cream portions can be placed directly onto hot drinks or desserts — they'll thaw in minutes.
How to Thaw Frozen Double Cream
Thaw in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, give it a good stir or shake — this helps recombine any separated fat. Use within 24 hours of thawing and do not refreeze.
Best Uses for Frozen and Thawed Cream
| Use | Suitable for frozen/thawed cream? |
|---|---|
| Cooking in sauces | Yes — excellent |
| Soups and curries | Yes — excellent |
| Baking (cakes, scones) | Yes — works well |
| Whipping for desserts | Possible but may not whip as stiffly |
| Pouring cold over desserts | Texture may be slightly grainy |
A Practical Alternative: UHT Double Cream
If you find yourself regularly freezing cream because you can't use it in time, UHT double cream is a more practical solution. Kerrymaid UHT Double Cream stores in the cupboard for months until opened, so you always have cream available without worrying about it going off. Once opened, it lasts 5–7 days in the fridge.