Half-and-Half

Half-and-Half is a dairy product consisting of equal parts light cream and whole milk, making it a versatile ingredient in both cooking and baking. It is not seasonally dependent and is available year-round. Half-and-Half is commonly used in American and European cuisines, particularly in creamy sauces, soups, coffee, and desserts where a rich texture is desired without the full fat of heavy cream. It can also be used to add creaminess to mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs.

Half-and-Half Synonyms

Half cream

Half-and-Half Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Half-and-Half

Liquid

Half-and-half is most commonly found as a liquid dairy product, a blend of equal parts whole milk and light cream, used to enrich the texture and flavor of coffee, sauces, and soups.

Fat-Free

A version of half-and-half that substitutes the cream with corn syrup or other thickeners to mimic the texture without the fat content, suitable for those watching their fat intake.

Ultra-Pasteurized

This form of half-and-half has been processed at a high temperature to extend its shelf life. It is suitable for those who do not use half-and-half regularly but want to keep it on hand.

How to Choose Half-and-Half

When choosing half-and-half, look for products with a recent production date and the farthest expiration date to ensure freshness. Opt for brands that use minimal additives and are known for their dairy quality. Organic options can also be a good choice as they are less likely to contain antibiotics or hormones.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Half-and-Half

Half-and-Half, a blend of equal parts whole milk and light cream, is a versatile ingredient in the kitchen, known for its ability to add richness without being as heavy as cream. When using half-and-half, be mindful of its lower fat content compared to heavy cream, which means it can curdle if exposed to high heat or acidic ingredients. To prevent this, avoid boiling half-and-half and instead gently simmer it when incorporating into sauces or soups. For a smooth texture, stir it in towards the end of cooking. Additionally, half-and-half can be used to temper eggs for custards or quiches, preventing them from scrambling when introduced to a hot mixture.

Shelf Life of Half-and-Half

Half-and-half should be stored in the refrigerator and kept cold at all times. Once opened, it should be used within 7-10 days for best quality. Ultra-pasteurized half-and-half has a longer shelf life and can be stored unopened at room temperature until the expiration date, but it must be refrigerated after opening. Do not freeze half-and-half as it can cause separation and texture changes.

Recommended Brands for Half-and-Half

liquid half-and-half: Organic Valley

fat-free half-and-half: Land O'Lakes

ultra-pasteurized half-and-half: Horizon Organic

Cooking Techniques for Half-and-Half

Whipping: While half-and-half doesn't whip as well as heavy cream due to its lower fat content, it can still be lightly whipped to add a bit of airiness to desserts or beverages. Chill it thoroughly before attempting to whip.

Simmering: Gently simmer half-and-half in soups, sauces, or gravies to add creaminess without curdling. Keep the temperature low and avoid boiling.

Tempering: When making custards or other egg-based dishes, slowly add warm half-and-half to beaten eggs, whisking constantly. This technique raises the temperature of the eggs gradually, preventing them from curdling.

Popular Half-and-Half Recipes

Creamy Tomato Soup
Fettuccine Alfredo
Quiche Lorraine

Half-and-Half Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 11.5 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 4.3 g
protein: 2.96 g
calories: 131 kcal
carbohydrates: 4.3 g

Flavor Combinations

Half-and-Half pairs well with ingredients that benefit from its creamy texture without needing the full richness of heavy cream. It complements mild flavors like vanilla or almond in desserts, as well as savory ingredients such as mushrooms, cheese, and herbs like parsley and chives. In coffee or tea, half-and-half adds a smooth, rich dimension without overpowering the beverage's inherent flavors.

Allergen Information

Half-and-Half contains lactose and milk proteins, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. Symptoms can include digestive distress, hives, and respiratory problems. Those with dairy allergies should avoid Half-and-Half and consider lactose-free or non-dairy alternatives.

Ingredient Comparisons

Whole Milk vs Half-and-Half