20 Minute Icing
A quick and versatile icing perfect for decorating cakes and cookies, offering a smooth, sweet flavor with vanilla and a hint of salt, suitable for bakers of all levels.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat together all ingredients for about 20 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure your shortening is at room temperature before mixing. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. For added flavor, consider using almond extract instead of vanilla. Also, if the icing is too thick, add a little more milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This icing is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. It pairs beautifully with Chocolate Pecan Angels for a sweet treat. You can also use it to complement savory dishes like Steak Ghengis Kahn, adding a unique twist. For a colorful presentation, consider adding food coloring to match your event theme.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip briefly to restore its fluffy texture. If the icing has thickened, you can add a teaspoon of milk to loosen it up if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 20 Minute Icing contains roughly 621 calories, with 9g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2092mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
It's not recommended to use granulated sugar as it won't dissolve properly, leading to a gritty texture. Stick with powdered sugar for a smooth and fluffy icing. If you're out of powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine, but keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
How can I make this icing firmer?
To achieve a firmer icing, you can add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, chilling the icing in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes can help it firm up as well. Just be sure to re-whip before using to restore its fluffy texture.
Is it possible to make this icing ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the icing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it reach room temperature and re-whip it before using to ensure it's light and fluffy again. This makes it a great option for preparing desserts in advance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).