Buttercream Icing(This Is The Icing Used In Cake Decorating Classes)

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

Buttercream icing provides a smooth, creamy finish perfect for cake decorating, with a sweet vanilla flavor that complements any celebration or special occasion.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Crisco
  • 1 box sifted powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lukewarm water
  • 1 teaspoon white vanilla

Instructions

  1. Mix slowly until smooth, but do not overmix as it will form air bubbles.
  2. Icing is at the right consistency when you are able to squeeze it through the tip easily and it retains its shape.
  3. Use the icing immediately or store in an airtight container for later use.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve the best consistency, start by mixing the Crisco and powdered sugar together before adding water. If you want a different flavor, consider substituting vanilla with almond extract or citrus zest for a refreshing twist. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can incorporate air and create bubbles in your icing, affecting its smoothness.

Serving Suggestions

This buttercream icing is perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. It pairs beautifully with flavors like chocolate or vanilla cake. For a festive touch, consider piping it onto layered cakes or creating decorative swirls on cupcakes. Browse more American recipes for delightful cake ideas to complement your icing.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover buttercream icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, refrigerate it for up to two weeks. Before using, let it come to room temperature and re-whip to restore its texture, ensuring it's smooth and spreadable.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Buttercream Icing(This Is The Icing Used In Cake Decorating Classes) contains roughly 97 calories, with 25g carbohydrates.

97 kcal 5% DV

Macronutrients

Protein 0g
Total Fat 0g
Carbs 24.9g 9% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 24.5g 49% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 0.5mg
Potassium 0.5mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 0.4mg
Iron 0mg
Diet fit Under 400 cal

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 unsalted butter instead of Crisco?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter as a substitute for Crisco, but it will alter the texture slightly. Butter will create a creamier icing, while Crisco gives a sturdier finish. If using butter, ensure it's at room temperature for easy mixing.

How can I color my buttercream icing?

You can add gel food coloring to your buttercream icing for vibrant colors. Start with a small amount and mix thoroughly until you achieve your desired shade. Gel colors are preferred over liquid ones as they won't alter the icing's consistency.

What should I do if my icing is too thick?

If your buttercream icing is too thick, gradually add a teaspoon of lukewarm water or milk to loosen it. Mix well until you reach the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid at once, as it can make the icing too runny.

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →