Cream is the fat that rises to the top of whole milk. It has a smooth, satiny texture and is labeled according to its butterfat content (heavy to light). Creams are usually labeled "pasteurized" or "ultra-pasteurized". Ultra pasteurized creams have a longer shelf life than pasteurized creams, but taste is affected (some say it has a cooked flavor). For superior taste, although it can be hard to find, buy 'pasteurized' not 'ultra pasteurized' cream.