Nothing beats the flavor and texture of homemade whipped cream, but using a mixer or whisk can be messy, not to mention tiring.

Looking for a better — and easier — alternative? Use a food processor.

It’s a trick I learned years ago from longtime LA Times Test Kitchen director Donna Deane. Combine heavy cream in the bowl of a food processor, along with a little sugar, vanilla or other flavor, and turn it on. Within seconds, you’re done. Best of all? Because you’re using the blades of the food processor to whip the cream, less air is incorporated as the cream is beaten, giving the whipped cream richer, creamier texture, along with better flavor.

Just be careful not to over whip (yes, this really does come together in seconds). Over beat the cream, and you’ll be well on your way to homemade butter. Not bad, but probably not the best topping for a holiday pie or other dessert.

Check out the video above, and give the method a go. After making whipped cream in a food processor, I won’t make it any other way.