Ah, buttercream frosting—it’s the silky hug you never knew you needed, right? Whether you’re crafting an elegant wedding cake or just slathering it on weekday cupcakes, this recipe is the answer. I once used it for a last-minute birthday cake, and, let me tell you, it was like a sweet whisper of perfection—promptly devoured and demanded again.
Steps
- Gather all the ingredients: unsalted butter, sifted confectioners’ sugar, pure vanilla extract, milk, and optional food coloring.
- In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the butter until it becomes smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually incorporate the sifted confectioners’ sugar, mixing until it’s fully combined with the butter.
- Add the vanilla extract to the mixture and continue to beat.
- Pour in the milk and beat for an additional 3 to 4 minutes to achieve a creamy consistency.
- If using, add food coloring and beat for about thirty seconds until the desired color is reached.
- Use the buttercream immediately or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 3 drops food coloring, optional
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2736 | Total Fat: 144g | Saturated Fat: 84g | Cholesterol: 372mg | Sodium: 48mg | Total Carbohydrate: 384g | Protein: 0g | Calcium: 96mg | Potassium: 132mg
FAQ
- What does buttercream consist of?
- Buttercream is a sweet, airy frosting made by blending butter with sugar. Often, milk is added for texture and vanilla for flavor. While vanilla is the most common, other variations include chocolate or fruit flavors, and food coloring can be used for visual appeal.
- Does buttercream frosting require refrigeration?
- Buttercream can be kept at room temperature for up to three days due to its high sugar content, which helps preserve it. After this period, it’s advisable to refrigerate it.
- How should you store buttercream?
- To store buttercream, place it in an airtight container. It can stay at room temperature for three days if kept in a cool, dark spot. If not used within that time, refrigerate it, where it will last for about a week.
- Can you freeze buttercream frosting?
- Yes, buttercream can be frozen for approximately three months in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. To use, move it to the refrigerator the day before, allowing it to thaw overnight.
- What causes buttercream to become grainy, and how can you fix it?
- Grainy buttercream may result from using the wrong confectioners’ sugar, particularly one not made from cane sugar. Ensure you sift the sugar before mixing. To remedy graininess, mix longer, add a bit more liquid, or let it sit overnight to allow sugar crystals to dissolve.
Tips
- Use Cane Sugar for a Smoother Texture: Opt for confectioners’ sugar made from cane sugar instead of beet sugar, as it melts more readily and helps prevent a grainy texture in your buttercream.
- Adjust Consistency with Additional Mixing or Liquid: If your buttercream turns out grainy, try mixing it longer to achieve a smoother consistency. If needed, add a small amount of liquid to help dissolve any remaining sugar crystals.
- Keep Buttercream at Room Temperature for Immediate Use: Store your buttercream in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to use it within three days, ensuring it’s kept in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality.
- Revive Chilled Buttercream: If your buttercream has been refrigerated and becomes too firm, whip it with a whisk or hand mixer to restore its fluffy texture before using it.
Equipment
- Professional Buttercream Icing that you might not normally have at home and may need to buy:
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Airtight container for storage
