N2O cream chargers, small metal canisters filled with nitrous oxide (N2O), are the secret to achieving that perfect whipped cream texture. Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Pressurization: The nitrous oxide in the charger is under high pressure.
- Release: When you screw the charger into a whipped cream dispenser and activate it, the pressurized N2O is released into the cream.
- Expansion: The N2O gas rapidly expands within the cream.
- Bubble Formation: As the gas expands, it creates countless tiny bubbles throughout the cream.
- Whipped Texture: These tiny bubbles trap air, giving the cream its characteristic airy and fluffy texture.
Essentially, the N2O acts as a propellant, forcing its way into the cream and expanding to create the desired whipped consistency.