Let’s Talk About Crème Fraîche: The Creamy Delight You Didn't Know You Needed

If you’ve ever wandered through the dairy aisle and stumbled upon a little container labelled “Crème Fraîche,” you might have wondered what it’s all about. Is it sour cream? Is it yogurt? Is it fancy butter? Today, we’re diving deep into the luscious world of crème fraîche to answer all your questions, share a super simple recipe to make your own, and explore its many delicious uses.

What Is Crème Fraîche?

Crème fraîche is a French-style cultured cream, similar to sour cream but with a richer, creamier texture and a milder tang. Unlike sour cream, crème fraîche has a higher fat content (about 30%) and won’t curdle when heated, making it a dream ingredient in both sweet and savoury dishes.

Why Make Your Own?

While store-bought crème fraîche is wonderful, making your own is surprisingly easy, cost-effective, and satisfying. All you need are two ingredients and a little patience.

Homemade Crème Fraîche Recipe

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Homemade Crème Fraîche

Author: Jennifer Cartier

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 24 MinTotal time: 29 Min

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Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream (not ultra-pasteurized)
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk or plain yogurt (with live cultures)

Instructions

1. Pour the heavy cream into a clean glass jar or bowl.
2. Stir in the buttermilk or yogurt until well combined.
3. Cover the container loosely with a clean cloth or plastic wrap to allow airflow.
4. Let it sit at room temperature (around 70°F) for 12-24 hours, or until thickened. The timing will depend on the warmth of your kitchen.
5. Once it’s reached your desired consistency, give it a stir, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. It will continue to thicken slightly as it chills.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

455

Fat

24 g

Sat. Fat

9 g

Carbs

33 g

Fiber

10 g

Net carbs

23 g

Sugar

9 g

Protein

29 g

Sodium

864 mg

Cholesterol

81 mg

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @thecartierskitchen on instagram and hashtag it #cartierskitchen

Homemade crème fraîche will keep in the fridge for about a week.

Crème fraîche is a true kitchen chameleon that deserves a spot in your fridge. Whether you’re using it to elevate weeknight dinners or impress guests with fancy desserts, it’s a simple way to add richness and sophistication to your cooking. So why not whip up a batch today? Your taste buds will thank you!

How to Use Crème Fraîche

Now that you’ve got your homemade batch, let’s explore the many ways to enjoy it.

1. Savory Dishes

• Soups: Stir a dollop into creamy tomato soup or potato leek soup for added richness.

• Pasta: Use it as a base for a luxurious pasta sauce. Try tossing it with linguine, lemon zest, and freshly cracked pepper.

• Toppings: Serve it on baked potatoes or roasted vegetables instead of sour cream.

2. Sweet Treats

• Desserts: Swirl it into fruit tarts, drizzle over roasted peaches, or use it as a frosting substitute for a tangy twist.

• Whipped Cream Alternative: Sweeten with a touch of powdered sugar and vanilla, then serve with berries or chocolate cake.

3. Breakfast Boost

• Pancakes & Waffles: Spread it over fluffy stacks and drizzle with maple syrup.

• Granola Bowls: Mix with a touch of honey and layer with granola and fresh fruit for an elevated parfait.

4. Sauces and Dips

• Whisk it into pan sauces for chicken or fish to add body and a velvety texture.

• Use it as the base for a creamy dill dip or tzatziki.

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Recipe Highlight: Crème Fraîche Lemon Cake

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Crème Fraîche Lemon Cake

Author: Jennifer Cartier

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 55 MinTotal time: 1 Hour

If you’re feeling inspired to bake, this crème fraîche lemon cake is a must-try.

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Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup crème fraîche
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well.
4. Stir in the crème fraîche, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

455

Fat

24 g

Sat. Fat

9 g

Carbs

33 g

Fiber

10 g

Net carbs

23 g

Sugar

9 g

Protein

29 g

Sodium

864 mg

Cholesterol

81 mg

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @thecartierskitchen on instagram and hashtag it #cartierskitchen