This versatile creamy topping blends the nutritional virtues and creamy texture of drained nonfat yogurt with the luxury of a little whipped cream. Use it in place of full-fat whipped cream or dessert topping. If you like, you can make variations by using different flavors of yogurt or even whisking in a bit of cocoa powder.

Makes about 1 cup

ACTIVE TIME: 15 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 1 1/4 hours (including 1 hour to drain yogurt)

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

1 cup low-fat or nonfat vanilla yogurt
1/4 cup whipping cream
2 1/2 teaspoons confectioners’ sugar (optional)

1. Line a sieve or colander with cheesecloth and set over a bowl, leaving at least 1/2-inch clearance from the bottom. (Alternatively, use a coffee filter lined with filter paper.) Spoon in yogurt, cover and let drain in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Discard whey.
2. Whip cream in a small bowl until soft peaks form. Add sugar, if using, and continue whipping until firm peaks form. Fold in the drained yogurt.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per tablespoon: 24 calories; 1 g fat (1 g sat, 0 g mono); 5 mg cholesterol; 2 g carbohydrate; 1 g protein; 0 g fiber; 11 mg sodium; 37 mg potassium.
0 Carbohydrate Servings
Exchanges: 1/2 fat

MAKE AHEAD TIP: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.