Quick answer: attach a compatible pressure regulator to the tank, fill your dispenser with cold cream (at least 28% fat) up to its fill line, close the head, connect the regulator hose and charge the dispenser with the amount of gas its maker recommends. Disconnect, shake, and dispense with the nozzle pointing down.
What you need
- A nitrous oxide cylinder from our range of cream charger tanks
- A pressure regulator and hose that fit your tank (sold separately)
- A whipped cream dispenser from our whipped cream dispensers or a compatible brand
- Cold heavy cream with at least 28% fat, plus powdered sugar or flavorings if you like
Step by step
- Chill the cream, and ideally the dispenser, in the fridge.
- Pour the cream into the dispenser bottle. Never fill above the maximum fill line.
- Add sweetener or flavoring. Sift powders such as sugar or cocoa so lumps do not block the valve.
- Screw the head on firmly and attach the nozzle.
- Fit the regulator to the tank following the regulator manufacturer’s instructions, with the tank standing upright on a stable surface.
- Connect the hose to the dispenser’s charging valve and fill it with the amount of gas the dispenser manufacturer recommends. Never exceed the dispenser’s rated pressure.
- Disconnect the hose, close the tank valve, then shake the dispenser well.
- Turn the dispenser upside down and test a little cream. If it is runny, shake a few more times.
Using single 8 g chargers instead
If you use single chargers, screw one 8 g charger into the charger holder for each pint of cream, or as your dispenser’s instructions say. A tank simply replaces the box of single chargers, which is why busy cafés and caterers prefer it.
Storing and cleaning the dispenser
Keep a charged dispenser in the fridge at about 40°F. For how long it keeps, see our guide to how long whipped cream lasts. Before cleaning, release all the remaining gas by pressing the lever with the dispenser upright, then unscrew the head and wash the bottle, head, valve and nozzle in warm soapy water. Never open a dispenser that is still under pressure.
Recipe ideas
Once you have the basics, try flavored toppings from our whipped cream dispenser recipes, and read why nitrous oxide is used for whipped cream.
Safety: nitrous oxide is sold for food and drink preparation only. Never inhale it; the U.S. FDA warns that inhaling nitrous oxide products can cause serious injury or death. Cylinders are under high pressure and escaping gas is extremely cold, so keep them away from heat, children and pets.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a regulator to use a cream charger tank?
Yes. A tank is connected to the dispenser through a compatible pressure regulator and hose. Check that the regulator fits your tank and follow its maker’s instructions.
How much cream does one charge whip?
One standard 8 g charger whips about a pint of cream. When you fill from a tank, use the amount of gas your dispenser’s manufacturer recommends for its size.
Why is my whipped cream runny?
The usual causes are cream that is not cold enough, cream with less than 28% fat, too little gas, or not shaking the dispenser after charging.
How long does cream keep in a charged dispenser?
Dispenser maker iSi says cream keeps for up to 10 days in a sealed, refrigerated whipper, provided the head is not removed. For best results use it within the first few days.
