Whipped Cream Topping

• A whipped cream topping is a good alternative to store-bought whipped topping because you can control the quality of the ingredients as well as the level of sweetness. To make your own, simply whip up 1 cup of whipping cream or heavy cream with 1 to 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla; this makes about 2 cups of whipped cream. Another advantage of making your own whipped cream is that you can create almost any flavor you desire, with the addition of different extracts, spices, citrus zest or a splash of liqueur.

Stabilized Whipped Cream

• One advantage whipped topping has over fresh whipped cream is that whipped topping will not deflate or melt as quickly as real whipped cream. To stabilize homemade whipped cream, add unflavored gelatin -- about 1/2 teaspoon per 1 cup of cream -- as you whip, beginning about halfway through the process. Follow the package directions for dissolving the gelatin first, which usually involves letting it soften in a little water and then heating it to melt the gelatin. Alternatively, you can use 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar for each 1 cup of cream.

Tips on Making Homemade Whipped Cream

• While not as easy as popping open a tub of store-bought whipped topping, homemade whipped cream is quick and simple, and a few key techniques will ensure success every time. First, always use heavy cream or whipping cream, which have a high enough fat content to easily whip into sturdy, voluminous peaks. Second, chill your tools and ingredients before starting -- this includes the mixing bowl, whisk or beaters, and cream. Finally, stop when you reach stiff peaks -- or sooner if you want a softer consistency -- as over-whipping will lead to separation and, eventually, butter.

Alternative Cheesecake Toppings

• If whipped topping isn't for you, yet homemade whipped cream is outside of your repertoire, try some of the many different cheesecake toppings. There's always the classic aerosol canned whipped cream if convenience is your priority. For a slightly tangy finishing touch, make a sour cream topping: whip 1 1/2 cups sour cream with 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar and a splash of vanilla, and spread it over your cheesecake for the last 10 minutes of baking. Fresh berries or any flavor of preserves -- loosened a little by warming in a pot over a low flame -- are classic toppings as well. Grated or shaved chocolate, or sweetened cocoa powder, are decadent toppings that require little effort.