Last updated: January 5, 2026
Quick Answer: January 5 National Whipped Cream Day is an annual food holiday observed every January 5 to honor whipped cream and its cultural impact. The date marks the birthday of Aaron “Bunny” Lapin, the entrepreneur who introduced Reddi-wip aerosol whipped cream to American kitchens in 1948. The holiday has no official government status but is widely recognized across food calendars, media outlets, and social media.
Key Takeaways
January 5 National Whipped Cream Day falls on January 5 each year, tied to the 1914 birthday of Reddi-wip founder Aaron “Bunny” Lapin.
The named observance is traced to around 2017 and carries no presidential proclamation or Act of Congress.
Whipped cream dates back centuries, but the modern aerosol version launched in 1948 transformed how Americans use it.
Celebrations typically involve topping desserts, hot drinks, and baked goods with whipped cream, and sharing on social media with #WhippedCreamDay.
Homemade whipped cream requires only heavy cream, sugar, and a whisk or mixer, with no special equipment needed.
Whipped cream and Cool Whip are not the same product: one is dairy-based, the other is a non-dairy emulsified topping.
Aerosol cans use nitrous oxide as a propellant, which is considered food-safe at normal usage levels by the FDA.
Opened aerosol whipped cream lasts about two weeks refrigerated; homemade whipped cream is best used within 24 hours.
What Is National Whipped Cream Day and When Did It Start?
National Whipped Cream Day is a food observance celebrated on January 5 each year. It honors whipped cream as a culinary staple and recognizes the legacy of Aaron S. “Bunny” Lapin, born January 5, 1914, who co-founded the Reddi-wip brand and launched the first commercially successful aerosol whipped cream in 1948. [3][5][9]
The named holiday as it appears on food calendars is traced to approximately 2017. It holds no official government recognition, meaning there is no presidential proclamation or congressional act behind it. [12] Despite that, the day appears consistently across major food-holiday calendars and media listings and continues to gain traction each year. [1][7][9]
Key facts about the origin:
Aaron Lapin was born January 5, 1914, which is why the date was chosen.
Reddi-wip debuted in 1948 and became a household name within years of launch.
The holiday is informal but widely covered, including by regional news outlets as recently as January 5, 2026. [6]
Future dates: January 5, 2027 (Tuesday), 2028 (Wednesday), 2029 (Friday), 2030 (Saturday). [1]
Fun Facts About Whipped Cream History
Whipped cream has existed for far longer than the aerosol can. The earliest recorded recipes for beaten cream appear in 16th-century European cookbooks, where cooks whipped cream by hand using bundles of twigs or early wire whisks. [3]
A few notable milestones:
16th century: Hand-whipped cream appears in Italian and French culinary texts.
1948: Aaron Lapin introduces Reddi-wip, the first aerosol whipped cream, making the topping accessible and fast.
1966: Cool Whip launches as a non-dairy alternative, expanding the market further.
2017 (approx.): January 5 becomes recognized as National Whipped Cream Day on food holiday calendars. [12]
2024: Specialty brands like Whipnotic used January 5 to announce retail expansions, showing how the holiday drives commercial activity. [8]
“Whipped cream went from a labor-intensive luxury to a pantry staple in less than a century, largely because of one aerosol can.”
How Do People Celebrate January 5 National Whipped Cream Day?
The most common way to celebrate is simply to add whipped cream to something you already enjoy. Food holiday guides and news features suggest topping pies, cakes, ice cream, hot cocoa, coffee, and milkshakes. [2][9][6]
Popular ways to celebrate:
Top your morning coffee or hot chocolate with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
Bake or buy a layered cake and finish it with whipped cream frosting.
Make a parfait with whipped cream, berries, and granola.
Try a new dessert, such as a mousse, trifle, or cream puff.
Share your creation on social media using #WhippedCreamDay.
Visit a local bakery or cafe and order a whipped cream-topped specialty drink. [10]
Brands also participate. In 2024, Whipnotic announced a retail expansion timed to January 5, demonstrating that the holiday has real commercial weight in the food industry. [8]
Whipped Cream vs Cool Whip: What Is the Difference?
Whipped cream is made from heavy dairy cream that has been aerated, while Cool Whip is a processed, non-dairy topping made from water, hydrogenated vegetable oil, and stabilizers. They are not interchangeable in every recipe.
FeatureWhipped CreamCool WhipBase ingredientHeavy dairy creamHydrogenated vegetable oilDairy contentYesNo (non-dairy)TextureLight, airy, melts fasterDenser, holds shape longerShelf life (opened)1-2 weeks (aerosol); 24 hrs (homemade)1-2 weeks refrigeratedCalories (2 tbsp, approx.)25-30 kcal25 kcalBest useFresh desserts, hot drinks, cakesLayered desserts, make-ahead dishes
Choose whipped cream if you want a clean dairy flavor and are serving desserts immediately. Choose Cool Whip if you need a topping that holds its shape for hours or need a dairy-free option.
Homemade Whipped Cream Recipe (No Whipper Needed)
Making whipped cream at home requires only three ingredients and takes about five minutes. No whipped cream dispenser is necessary, though one speeds up the process.
Ingredients:
1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream (cold)
1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Steps:
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
Pour cold heavy cream into the chilled bowl.
Beat on medium-high speed with a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Add sugar and vanilla after about 1 minute.
Continue beating until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes total).
Stop at soft peaks for a pourable consistency, or continue to stiff peaks for piping.
Without a mixer: Use a large balloon whisk and a chilled bowl. Whisk vigorously in a circular motion for 4-6 minutes. It takes more effort but works well.
Common mistake: Overbeating turns whipped cream into butter. Stop as soon as stiff peaks hold their shape.
Best Whipped Cream Brands and Where to Find Deals on January 5
Several brands dominate the whipped cream market, each with slightly different formulations. On January 5 National Whipped Cream Day, many grocery stores and coffee chains run promotions or social media giveaways tied to the holiday. [10]
Widely available brands:
Reddi-wip (ConAgra): The original aerosol brand since 1948, available in original, extra creamy, and non-dairy oat versions.
Land O’Lakes: Known for a rich, dairy-forward flavor.
Lucerne (Safeway store brand): Budget-friendly and widely available on the West Coast.
Whipnotic: A specialty brand that expanded retail distribution on January 5, 2024. [8]
Trader Joe’s: Offers a seasonal aerosol option popular for its clean ingredient list.
Finding deals on January 5: Check grocery store apps (Kroger, Safeway, Walmart) for digital coupons. Coffee chains sometimes offer free whipped cream upgrades. Social media brand accounts for Reddi-wip and similar products often post discount codes on the holiday. [10]
Whipped Cream Nutrition Facts and Nitrous Oxide Safety
Two tablespoons of standard aerosol whipped cream contain roughly 15-30 calories, less than 2 grams of fat, and minimal sugar, making it a relatively light topping compared to alternatives like caramel sauce or ice cream.
Approximate nutrition per 2-tablespoon serving (aerosol whipped cream):
Calories: 15-30 kcal
Total fat: 1-2 g
Saturated fat: 1 g
Sugar: 1-2 g
Protein: 0 g
On nitrous oxide (N2O) safety: Aerosol whipped cream cans use nitrous oxide as a propellant to push cream out and aerate it simultaneously. The FDA classifies nitrous oxide as a food-grade propellant that is safe for use in whipped cream dispensers at normal consumption levels. The gas dissipates into the air when cream is dispensed; it does not remain in the cream in significant quantities. Misuse of nitrous oxide cartridges outside of food preparation is a separate safety concern and is not associated with normal whipped cream consumption.
Whipped Cream Shelf Life and Storage Tips
Aerosol whipped cream (unopened) keeps until the printed expiration date, typically several months. Once opened, it should be used within two weeks and stored upright in the refrigerator. Homemade whipped cream is far more perishable and should be used within 24 hours, stored covered in the refrigerator.
Storage rules at a glance:
Aerosol can (unopened): Follow expiration date, store at or below 40°F (4°C).
Aerosol can (opened): Use within 2 weeks, keep refrigerated, store nozzle-side up.
Homemade whipped cream: Cover tightly, refrigerate, use within 24 hours.
Stabilized homemade cream (with gelatin or cream cheese added): Lasts up to 3 days refrigerated.
Edge case: Whipped cream left at room temperature for more than two hours should be discarded due to bacterial growth risk, especially on a dessert table during a party.
Best Whipped Cream Toppings and Dessert Pairings
Whipped cream is one of the most versatile toppings in the kitchen. It pairs well with both warm and cold desserts and can be flavored to match nearly any dish.
Classic pairings:
Hot cocoa and coffee drinks
Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and fruit tarts
Ice cream sundaes and banana splits
Strawberry shortcake and crepes
Creative ideas for January 5 National Whipped Cream Day:
Fold whipped cream into pudding or mousse for a lighter texture.
Layer it in a trifle with pound cake and fresh berries.
Pipe rosettes onto a no-bake cheesecake.
Dollop onto waffles with maple syrup and sliced bananas.
Add a flavored twist: mix in espresso powder, citrus zest, or a dash of cinnamon before whipping.
Conclusion
January 5 National Whipped Cream Day is a simple but genuinely fun food holiday rooted in real culinary history. It honors Aaron “Bunny” Lapin’s 1948 innovation that turned a hand-whipped luxury into an everyday staple. Whether the goal is to try a new dessert recipe, pick up a specialty brand at the grocery store, or simply add a swirl to morning coffee, the day offers an easy reason to experiment in the kitchen.
Actionable next steps for 2026:
Mark January 5 on your calendar now and plan one whipped cream-centered recipe in advance.
Try making homemade whipped cream from scratch using the recipe above, it takes five minutes and the difference in flavor is noticeable.
Check grocery store apps on January 5 for digital coupons on Reddi-wip and similar brands.
Share your creation with #WhippedCreamDay to join the broader community celebrating the day.
If you’re hosting a winter gathering, build a simple hot cocoa bar with multiple whipped cream toppings as an easy crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Whipped Cream Day?
National Whipped Cream Day is an annual food holiday on January 5 that celebrates whipped cream and honors the legacy of Reddi-wip founder Aaron “Bunny” Lapin, who was born on that date in 1914. [3][9]
Is January 5 National Whipped Cream Day an official holiday?
No. It has no presidential proclamation or Act of Congress behind it. It is an informal observance recognized by food holiday calendars and media outlets, with origins traced to around 2017. [12]
Why is National Whipped Cream Day on January 5?
The date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of Aaron S. “Bunny” Lapin (January 5, 1914), who introduced Reddi-wip aerosol whipped cream to the U.S. market in 1948. [3][5]
What hashtag do people use for National Whipped Cream Day?
The most commonly used social media tag is #WhippedCreamDay. [6]
Can you make whipped cream without a whipper or mixer?
Yes. A large balloon whisk and a chilled bowl work fine. Whisk cold heavy cream vigorously for 4-6 minutes until soft or stiff peaks form.
How long does homemade whipped cream last?
Homemade whipped cream lasts up to 24 hours when covered and refrigerated. Stabilized versions made with added gelatin can last up to three days.
Is the nitrous oxide in aerosol whipped cream safe to consume?
Yes. The FDA classifies nitrous oxide as a food-grade propellant. It disperses into the air when cream is dispensed and does not remain in the cream in harmful quantities during normal use.
What is the difference between whipped cream and Cool Whip?
Whipped cream is a dairy product made from aerated heavy cream. Cool Whip is a non-dairy processed topping made primarily from hydrogenated vegetable oil and stabilizers. They differ in flavor, texture, and shelf life.
When is National Whipped Cream Day in 2027?
January 5, 2027, which falls on a Tuesday. [1]
What are the best brands of whipped cream to buy?
Widely recommended options include Reddi-wip (original and extra creamy), Land O’Lakes, Lucerne, and specialty brands like Whipnotic. [8]
How many calories are in whipped cream?
A standard two-tablespoon serving of aerosol whipped cream contains approximately 15-30 calories, roughly 1-2 grams of fat, and 1-2 grams of sugar.
What desserts pair best with whipped cream?
Hot cocoa, pies, ice cream sundaes, strawberry shortcake, trifles, and mousse are all classic pairings. Whipped cream also works well as a frosting for layered cakes.
References
[1] National Whipped Cream Day – https://nationaltoday.com/national-whipped-cream-day/
[2] dayspedia – https://dayspedia.com/us/calendar/holiday/1086/
[3] Whipped Cream Day – https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/whipped-cream-day/
[5] January 5 National Whipped Cream Day – https://yumday.co/blogs/news/january-5-national-whipped-cream-day
[6] naplesnews – https://www.naplesnews.com/story/entertainment/2026/01/05/what-national-day-today-national-bird-day-whipped-cream-thank-god-monday/88027666007/
[7] National Whipped Cream Day – https://www.checkiday.com/a4f3a3ca9b4bf1b77618f38bfc51d0ec/national-whipped-cream-day
[8] 20240105 Whipnotic Celebrates National Whipped Cream Day – https://www.fooddive.com/press-release/20240105-whipnotic-celebrates-national-whipped-cream-day-with-sweet-expansion-into/
[9] National Whipped Cream Day – https://www.nationaldaystoday.com/national-whipped-cream-day/
[10] Jan 5 National Whipped Cream Day – https://www.informnny.com/abc50-now/jan-5-national-whipped-cream-day/
[12] HolidayInsights (via checkiday) – https://www.checkiday.com/a4f3a3ca9b4bf1b77618f38bfc51d0ec/national-whipped-cream-day