Light Cream
Cream with about 18 to 30 percent butterfat, between half & half and whipping cream. It is a pouring cream for coffee and light sauces, and it does not whip.
| Category | Milk & Cream |
|---|---|
| Maker / Origin | United States |
| Storage | Refrigerate at about 38°F in its sealed carton, in the back of the fridge. |
| Shelf life | About 5 to 7 days after opening, and by the date on the carton. |
| Best uses | Coffee, chowders, cream soups, sauces, and pouring over fruit. |
| Substitutes | Half & half for a lighter result, or equal parts milk and heavy cream. |
| Pairings | Coffee, berries, chowders, and scrambled eggs. |
| Last checked | October 18, 2026 |
About it
Light cream is the pour of diners and old cookbooks, richer than half & half and leaner than whipping cream. In coffee it gives body without coating the mouth, and in cooking it enriches sauces that heavy cream would make heavy.
Storing it
Light cream does not freeze well and may separate. Keep it sealed and use it within the week once opened.
Using it
Pour light cream over berries and into coffee, and use it in chowders where heavy cream would overwhelm. Do not try to whip it.
Swaps & pairings
Milk and heavy cream mixed in equal parts rebuild light cream closely. Half & half works in coffee and most sauces with less richness.
More from this maker: United States