PREPARATION
With a whisk or an electric mixer, beat 1 cup cream (and up to 1/4 cup sugar if you like) to nearly stiff peaks, making sure not to overbeat.
Use plain, or fold in any of the following: 1. Vanilla (seeds from half a pod, or 1 teaspoon extract) 2. Spices (a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg or cloves) 3. Citrus zest (1/2 teaspoon grated) 4. Alcohol (1 to 2 tablespoons bourbon, Grand Marnier, amaretto, framboise, Kahlúa or whatever you like) 5. Ginger (1/2 teaspoon finely grated or minced fresh ginger) 6. Maple syrup (1 tablespoon, in place of some of the sugar if you’re using it) 7. Herbs (1 tablespoon minced fresh mint or basil)