Chill a large bowl in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before using.
Remove the mixing bowl and beaters from the refrigerator after 10 minutes or until sufficiently chilled.
Add the cream to chilled bowl.
Sift in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder see note 2
Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer for 20 to 30 seconds on low until bubbles begin to form see note 3
A hand whisk can also be used to beat the cream. However, A whisk will take a little longer to get the same results as a hand mixer.
Increase mixer speed to medium and beat until the cream begins to thicken and puff up. the beaters will leave a slight trail in the cream.
Continue beating on medium speed to the desired consistency, either soft or stiff peaks see note 4
If you are going to fold it into another mixture, only beat the cream to a soft peak. (3 to 4 minutes). The cream will be thick enough to hold its shape in soft billowy peaks.
If you are using as a topping, or decoration, beat to a stiff peak (5 to 6 minutes) The beaters or whisk leaves distinct tracks/lines in the cream while beating. The cream should hold its shape and stick tightly to the beaters.
Once it forms stiff peaks, stop beating. If the cream is over whipped it will start to separate and curdle.
Use the cream shortly after whipping: Use the cream shortly after whipping. Avoid leaving the whipped cream at room temperature for long periods of time. Warm cream deflates quickly and can turn watery.
Store unused cream in the refrigerator: Store unused whipped cream in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The refrigerated whipped cream usually loses its soft airy texture after a few days. Whip it for about a minute to reuse for frosting or piping.