Homemade Crème Fraîche

Name: Homemade Crème Fraîche
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 725 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream (full-fat); 2 tablespoons buttermilk (cultured)

725 min 12 servings Easy

All Recipes

Discover how to make rich and creamy homemade crème fraîche with this easy recipe. Perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your dishes.

Prep

5 min

Total

725 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Crème fraîche is a staple in many kitchens, known for its rich and tangy flavour that adds depth to both savoury and sweet dishes. Making your own crème fraîche at home is surprisingly simple and requires only two ingredients. This recipe is perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen and appreciate the freshness of homemade ingredients. It's a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire, enhancing everything from soups to desserts.

Instructions

Combine ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of buttermilk. Stir well to mix.

Pro tip: Use a non-reactive bowl to avoid any metallic taste.

Cover the bowl

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, allowing some airflow.

Pro tip: Do not seal tightly; some air circulation helps the fermentation.

Let it sit

Leave the mixture at room temperature (around 21°C or 70°F) for 24 to 36 hours until thickened.

Pro tip: Check consistency after 24 hours; it should be thick and tangy.

Check the texture

After resting, the crème fraîche should be thick and creamy. Stir gently before transferring.

Pro tip: If it's not thick enough, let it sit for a few more hours.

Transfer to a jar

Transfer the crème fraîche to a sterilized jar with a lid and refrigerate.

Pro tip: Use a spatula to scrape every bit from the bowl.

Store and use

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Use as needed in various recipes.

Pro tip: Label the jar with the date for freshness tracking.

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Tips & Tricks

Use full-fat cream for the creamiest texture.
Patience is key; let it sit at room temperature for the full duration.
Store in a sterilized jar to extend freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does homemade crème fraîche last?

Homemade crème fraîche can last up to 2 weeks when stored in a sealed container in the fridge.

What is crème fraîche used for?

Crème fraîche is used to add creaminess and tanginess to dishes like soups, sauces, and desserts.

Can I make crème fraîche with milk?

No, it's essential to use heavy cream to achieve the correct thickness and richness.

Is crème fraîche the same as sour cream?

Crème fraîche is richer and less tangy than sour cream, with a higher fat content.

How do I thicken crème fraîche if it's runny?

If it's runny, let it sit at room temperature for a few more hours until it thickens.

Serving Suggestions

Once your homemade crème fraîche is ready, you can use it in a variety of ways. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, adds a creamy touch to soups, or can be dolloped over baked potatoes for a luxurious finish. For make-ahead convenience, prepare it a day before you plan to use it. Store your crème fraîche in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, ensuring it's kept in a clean, sealed container.