Dairy & eggs

Dessert topping, powdered

FDC 170865oz (43 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 4 · -31 vs Dairy & eggs median

Powdered dessert topping scores 4 of 100 on the Nutrient Density Score, a Low band result and the lowest placement in the Dairy & eggs category at 60th of 60, though the whipped mix does register modest protein and vitamin E, each at 10% DV.

This is the powder whisked with cold milk and beaten until it forms a whipped topping for pies, puddings, or hot cocoa, with a single ounce (43 g) making a fair amount of finished topping. It carries a double caveat, running high in sugars at 52.5 g per 100 g and high in saturated fat at 36.7 g per 100 g, though it does stay naturally low in sodium; the pressurized version of the same topping is a lighter-handed alternative.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around dessert topping, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 4.9 g · 3%Carb 52.5 g · 36%Fat 39.9 g · 61%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories577 kcal29%
Total fat40 g51%
Saturated fat37 g184%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Sodium122 mg5%
Carbohydrate53 g19%
Dietary fiber0 g0%
Sugars53 g
Protein4.9 g10%
Potassium166 mg4%
Calcium17 mg1%
Iron0.03 mg0%
Magnesium7 mg2%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E1.5 mg10%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 170865

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Protein10% DV
Vitamin E10% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the dairy & eggs median

Nutrient density4 vs 35 median
Protein / 100 g4.9 vs 9 median
Fiber / 100 g0 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g122 vs 162 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Dessert topping, pressurizedDensity 5 vs 4Butter, saltedDensity 10 vs 4Butter oil, anhydrousDensity 11 vs 4

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Powdered dessert topping is a dry whipped-topping mix, meant to be beaten with cold milk until it forms a light, airy whipped cream substitute, the kind of product often used before ready-made whipped toppings became common. Once whipped, it's used the same way as whipped cream, dolloped over pies, puddings, gelatin desserts and fruit, or folded into no-bake dessert fillings like icebox cakes and parfaits. Chilling the mixing bowl and beaters beforehand, the same trick used for fresh cream, helps the mix whip up to its fullest volume.

An ounce of the dry powder weighs 43 grams, and per 100 grams it's 577 calories with 52.5 grams of sugar and 39.9 grams of fat, reflecting that most of its bulk becomes airy volume once whipped with milk rather than being eaten in concentrated form. It provides 4.9 grams of protein per 100 grams (10% DV) and 10% DV vitamin E, mostly incidental to its role as a topping. Store the dry mix sealed in a pouch or container in the pantry; once whipped with milk, keep it refrigerated and use within a day or two like any dairy-based topping, since it will lose its airy structure if left out too long.

Frequently asked questions about dessert topping

How do you use powdered dessert topping?

Beat it with cold milk until it whips into a light, airy topping, similar to whipped cream, then use it on pies, puddings or gelatin desserts.

How many calories are in powdered dessert topping?

The dry powder has 577 calories per 100 grams, though it becomes much lighter in volume once whipped with milk.

How should you store dessert topping powder?

Keep the dry mix sealed in the pantry; once whipped with milk, refrigerate it and use within a day or two.

View the USDA source record