Cole Special Butter Icing
Creamy and versatile butter icing with a subtle flavor, perfect for decorating cakes and pastries, suitable for those seeking a smooth, sweet frosting with flavor options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the Crisco, meringue powder, salt, and light flavoring together until well combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, little by little, alternating with water, and continue beating.
- Beat for about 5 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
- When used for icing cakes, add a little more water to achieve desired consistency.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half Crisco and half unsalted butter. If meringue powder is unavailable, egg whites can be used instead—just ensure they are pasteurized for safety. Adjust the flavoring to your preference; vanilla or almond extract can be delightful substitutes. Remember to sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps for a smoother icing.
Serving Suggestions
This butter icing is perfect for frosting cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, lending a sweet and fluffy finish. It pairs beautifully with chocolate desserts, such as Chocolate Caramel Nut Turtles. Decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive touch, or use it to layer between cake layers for added flavor and moisture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using again, let it come to room temperature and re-whip briefly to restore its fluffy texture. If it appears too thick, add a teaspoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cole Special Butter Icing contains roughly 167 calories, with 40g carbohydrates and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1745mg per serving (76% 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 this icing for piping decorations?
Yes, this icing can be piped for decorative purposes. If you aim for intricate designs, ensure the icing is at the right consistency—thicker for details and thinner for spreading. Add a bit more water if needed to achieve the desired piping consistency.
How can I make this icing vegan-friendly?
To make this icing vegan, substitute Crisco with a vegan butter alternative and use aquafaba instead of meringue powder. Aquafaba is the liquid from canned chickpeas and can provide the necessary fluffiness without using egg products.
What can I do if my icing is too runny?
If your icing is too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar until it thickens to your desired consistency. Make sure to mix it well after each addition. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for a short time to help it firm up.
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).