"Heavy cream is one of those things that is always in my fridge," writes cookbook author Stacey Ballis. "It’s the perfect way to smooth out a sauce, add a creamy texture to a dessert, and is essential ...

Heavy cream (aka heavy whipping cream) is ideal for desserts needing structure, like trifles or icebox cakes. Whipping cream (aka light whipping cream) works well for soft dollops on pies, puddings, ...