If you have a standing mixer, put the bowl of the mixer in the refrigerator to chill for 15-30 minutes minimum. If you have a hand mixer, use a large bowl. 

Add whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl. 

Using a wire whisk attachment, beat the ingredients on slow speed. Increase speed to high speed as the cream becomes more firm.

Beat until stiff peaks form. Make sure to stop mixing and scrape the sides of the bowl before that point so that all the ingredients are incorporated. 

Serve in a bowl with a spoon, use in hot chocolate, or pipe onto desserts using a piping bag.