German Whipped Cream (Schlag)
Traditional German whipped cream with vanilla extract and powdered sugar, also known as schlag or Schlagsahne in German, is a delicious version of traditional whipped cream. This type of smooth whipped cream is often used as a topping for desserts, cakes, drinks, and other sweet treats. Perfect for cream cakes such as black forest cake!
Germans love whipped cream
“Aber bitte mit Sahne” is a famous German song by Udo Jürgens translating to “but please with cream” and Germans do live by it for sure. All cake slices are offered with a dollop of Schlagsahne in German cafés, even if the cake is a cream cake (Sahnetorte) such as Käse-Sahne-Torte, black forest cake, or Bienenstich.
Ingredients and substitutions
See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.
- Cream – You’ll need chilled heavy cream.
- Sugar – Powdered sugar works best as it dissolves easily but you can also use castor or granulated sugar for this recipe. If you prefer a natural sweetener I suggest using maple syrup or stevia.
- Vanilla – Vanilla extract or fresh vanilla beans give the schlag a rich flavor. You can also use vanilla essence if needed. Or make your own vanilla syrup or cinnamon extract to add a festive flavor.
Serving
You can use German whipped cream in a variety of desserts from layered cream cakes such as the popular black forest cake to filling pastries such as German cream puffs (Windbeutel). Or simply make a batch of schlag as a side or topping for your favorite baked goods, dessert, or drinks. Here are few examples:
- Different types of waffles
- Whey pancakes
- Semolina pudding
- Quick chocolate fudge cake
- Hot cacao drink
- Cinnamon pie
Storage tips
Homemade whipped cream typically lasts for about 2 to 3 days when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
I don’t recommend freezing it as its texture becomes grainy and unpleasant.
More dessert toppings
For more delicious dessert topping ideas, check out the following recipes:
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German Whipped Cream (Schlag)
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to a medium-sized mixing bowl.2 tbsp powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 cup heavy cream
- Start whipping the cream using an electric mixer on low speed to fully combine all ingredients. Increase the mixer speed to high and continue whipping. Watch closely as the cream thickens, making sure not to overwhip it. Reduce the speed to medium-low once soft peaks start to form. Whip to your desired consistency.
- Taste the whipped cream and adjust the sweetness or vanilla flavor if needed by adding more icing sugar or vanilla extract. Serve immediately.
