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.
Notes
Don't overmix: Keep a close eye on the cream while whipping as it can go from soft peaks to over-whipped (turning into butter) quickly.Storage: 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.