My Favorite Buttercream Icing for Decorating
Transform your baked creations into edible masterpieces with *My Favorite Buttercream Icing for Decorating*, a foolproof recipe that blends creamy, cloud-like texture with flawless versatility. Made with just six simple ingredients—softened unsalted butter, sifted powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and a touch of heavy cream—this buttercream whips up in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. Its silky-smooth consistency makes it ideal for piping intricate designs, spreading seamlessly over cakes, or adding vibrant pops of color with gel food coloring. Whether you're decorating cupcakes for a party or crafting a custom wedding cake, this buttercream icing delivers delicious results every time. Plus, it’s easy to store and re-whip, so your decorating adventures can continue all week long!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups Powdered sugar (confectioners' sugar), sifted
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons Heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 pinch Salt
- Gel food coloring (optional)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment on medium speed until creamy and pale, about 2-3 minutes.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition to prevent a sugar cloud. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla extract and the pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
Slowly add the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, while mixing on low speed. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat the mixture for 3-5 minutes until the icing is light, fluffy, and smooth.
If you plan to color the icing, divide it into separate bowls and add gel food coloring a little at a time, mixing thoroughly until you achieve the desired colors.
Use immediately for decorating cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. To store, transfer the icing to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Re-whip before using.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3695 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 202.8 g | 260% | |
| Saturated Fat | 128.5 g | 642% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 551 mg | 184% | |
| Sodium | 189 mg | 8% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 481.1 g | 175% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 481.1 g | ||
| Protein | 2.6 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 76 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 88 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
