How do u make icing for cake

One way to make cake icing is by preparing a buttercream frosting, which starts by placing 1 cup of butter into the microwave for 10-30 seconds to soften it. Then, gradually mix the softened butter with 3 cups of powdered sugar, by hand or in an electric mixer on low speed. Once the butter and sugar are combined, add 2 tablespoons of whipping cream or heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract. Beat the mixture until it’s thick enough to apply with a knife, and spread it over the cake! For more tips, including how to make a simple sugar or cream cheese icing, read on!

Did this summary help you?YesNo

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,368,330 times.

In need of a classic cake frosting? This simple 4-ingredient recipe is my go-to vanilla frosting recipe for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more.

You should know how to make a super simple homemade cake frosting. There’s no point in relying on shelf-stable canned frosting as cake frosting is easy to make and tastes better. My mother taught me how to make this frosting recipe when I was a child.

Why You'll Love This Frosting Recipe

The frosting recipe only requires four ingredients. You probably have them in your kitchen and you don’t know it. It's my go-to recipe for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. What makes this homemade frosting my favorite is how it balances sweet and buttery flavors without being overbearing in the dairy department.

How To Make Basic Vanilla Cake Frosting

1. Combine butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a standard mixer or large bowl with a hand mixer until it’s smooth and doesn’t have any lumps.
2. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach spreading consistency.
3. Use immediately, or refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to use.

How To Make The Best Dessert Frosting

• Use softened, room temperature butter. It should be soft enough to leave a slight indent when pressed with one finger but not so soft that it's greasy or slick.
• To soften butter quickly, cut into quarters and microwave on the defrost setting for 5-20 seconds.
• I love vanilla bean paste for the best vanilla flavor.
• If you're using unsalted butter add ¼ teaspoon salt.
• Cream or half and half can be used in place of milk. 
• Frosting should be spread at room temperature. If you're making it in advance, let it thaw to room temperature before using.

Recipe Variations

• Add 1 teaspoon of other flavorings, such as almond, peppermint, or orange extract.
• For chocolate frosting, replace ¼ to ½ cup of the powdered sugar with cocoa powder.

How Far In Advance Can You Make Frosting?

Frosting can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for three days. If you have freezer storage, you can make frosting three months in advance.

What Is Ganache?

Ganache is a type of frosting. It’s not a dessert frosting in the traditional sense. A dessert ganache is like aluminum siding for a mobile home. It’s a hard coating that protects and holds a pie or cake together.  

There are three types of ganaches: 

• White chocolate
• Milk chocolate
• Dark chocolate

A chocolate ganache for ice cream cake is common. Ice cream melts when not kept in cool temperatures. When you apply a ganache, it holds the ice cream cake together. The ganache coating protects the cake by preserving the cold temperature generated from the ice cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Happens When Buttercream Cake Frosting Spoils?

A cake with spoiled buttercream frosting will turn green at the base. The frosting will become thin and to the point where it’s watery. The cake will give off a bad odor and have a sour taste. A thick cream can also form over the top.

What Ingredients Are Dog-Safe Frosting?

Peanut butter is a common ingredient for dog-safe frosting. However, make sure the brand is xylitol-free. Xylitol is toxic and could trigger an allergic reaction.

Why Is Sorbic Acid Used In Cake Frosting?

Sorbic acid is a preservative used in flour-based candy and sweets. The acid prevents bacteria and mold growth. Potential risks come with sorbic acid. If inhaled, it can cause toxic reactions. For example, anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction that causes shock and symptoms like rash, nausea, and vomiting.

Frosting Conclusion

A cake is only as good as its frosting. When your frosting doesn’t live up to your cake’s expectations, it’s like a bad paint job on a nice home. Making your own frosting is the best way to ensure your cake will taste great.

Did you make this recipe? Please leave a star rating in the comments!

Basic Vanilla Cake Frosting

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 8 reviews

Looking for an easy, classic cake frosting? This simple 4-ingredient recipes is my go-to vanilla frosting recipe for cakes, cupcakes, and more!

What is cake icing made of?

How do you make icing on top of cake?