(1) Heavy cream is a delicious option but can be left out when counting fat grams.
(2) "Temper" is a culinary term meaning to stabilize certain products. For instance, when a hot liquid, like soup, is mixed with cold cream, it is added slowly, whisking the entire time, so the dairy product doesn't curdle.
(3) Can be made the day before and refrigerated until ready to use. Warm slowly before serving.