Whipping the cream. Yields: 2 cups Prep time: 5 minutes Ingredients: 1/2 pt. whipping cream 3 tbsp. sugar 1 tsp. vanilla Instructions: Whip cream with mixer. Be careful not to overbeat or else will get too thick like butter. When it begins to thicken, add sugar and vanilla; stir. Refrigerate. Tips: Use cold ingredients: Make sure your whipping cream and mixing bowl are well chilled. This helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better. Don't overwhip: As mentioned, overwhipping will turn your cream into butter. Watch closely as you whip and stop as soon as it reaches the desired consistency (soft, medium, or stiff peaks). Sweeten to taste: The amount of sugar is a personal preference. You can adjust it based on how sweet you like your whipped cream. Add flavor variations: Get creative with flavors! Try adding a teaspoon of instant coffee for coffee-flavored whipped cream, a tablespoon of cocoa powder for chocolate whipped cream, or a few drops of peppermint extract for p...