How to Make Creme Chantilly

Also known simply as whipped cream with vanilla, creme chantilly is a smooth cream used to fill cream puffs and adorn the top of desserts.  Rather than flavored whipped creams sold in grocery stores, creme chantilly is made fresh on the spot before it is used.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FA8dIHf5W2I

To make creme chantilly, cream is whipped with a bit of sugar and vanilla flavoring until stiff.  The topping can be made quickly and with just three ingredients, but does require a bit of physical labor and technique to perfect.  For best results, chef Eric Crowley, owner of the Culinary Classroom in Los Angeles, recommends working with a chilled mixing bowl and wire whisk as well as whipping the cream just long enough.  It's important to whip the mixture until stiff peaks form, then stop.  Under-mixing the cream will create a weak texture while over-whipping will make butter.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FA8dIHf5W2I

• 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
  
• 1-2 tablespoons powdered or granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extracthttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FA8dIHf5W2I

• Metal mixing bowl
  
• Wire whiskhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FA8dIHf5W2I

1. Chill the metal mixing bowl and wire whisk well before preparing the creme chantilly.
   
2. Pour the whipping or heavy cream into the chilled bowl.  Add in the sugar.
3. Begin whipping the mixture rapidly using the wire whisk.  Whip for about two minutes, until steaks are visible within the cream and soft peaks appear.
4. Add in the vanilla extract and continue whipping.  Beat until stiff peaks form.  The mixture should stick to the wire whisk.  Don't overbeat the mixture.
5. Use the completed creme chantilly immediately.  If using as a filling for a creme puff, use a reclosable plastic bag or pastry bag to pipe the creme into the dessert.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FA8dIHf5W2I