Cream is a rich, dairy product derived from the high-fat part of milk. Once milk is left to settle, the fat-rich fraction floats to the top and is skimmed off, giving us fresh cream. This ingredient is known for its smooth, velvety texture and a luxurious mouthfeel.
Cream's scent profile is subtle and comforting, characterized by a lightly sweet and milky aroma with hints of nuttiness. Depending on its fat content and processing, the intensity of these aromas can vary slightly. In some cases, particularly when cream is heated or cooked, there can be a slight caramel or buttery note due to the sugars and fats reacting under heat, known as the Maillard reaction. Overall, cream's scent is mild, making it an excellent base in culinary uses, as it absorbs and enhances flavors and spices it is combined with.