Decorator Cake Icing

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

Decorative cake icing with smooth, sweet vanilla flavor, perfect for frosting cakes and creating intricate designs, suitable for bakers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 tsp. white vanilla
  • 2 tsp. meringue powder
  • 1 c. Crisco
  • 2 lb. powdered sugar
  • 1/2 c. warm water

Instructions

  1. Mix vanilla, meringue powder, and Crisco for 3 to 5 minutes in a mixer.
  2. Add powdered sugar and half of the warm water; moisten at low speed.
  3. Add remaining water and mix for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth.
  4. Use to frost one 9 x 12-inch layer cake or two 8-inch round layers.

Tips & Substitutions

For a firmer icing, reduce the amount of warm water slightly. You can substitute Crisco with butter for a richer flavor, but be mindful that it may alter the texture. If meringue powder is unavailable, you can use egg whites instead; just ensure they are pasteurized. This icing is perfect for decorating cakes, especially when attempting intricate designs.

Serving Suggestions

This icing is ideal for frosting one 9 x 12-inch layer cake or two 8-inch round layers. Consider pairing it with flavors like vanilla or chocolate cake. It also complements fruity desserts, such as a Baked Apple Dessert, for a delightful contrast. Add decorative sprinkles or edible glitter for an extra festive touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to refrigerate it, ensure it’s tightly sealed, as it can dry out. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature and re-whip briefly to restore its texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Decorator Cake Icing contains roughly 884 calories, with 0g protein, 227g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.

884 kcal 44% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.1g
Total Fat 0g
Carbs 226.6g 82% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 221.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 4.6mg
Potassium 6.5mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 4.3mg
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg

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 make this icing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this icing a day in advance. Just store it properly in an airtight container at room temperature. Before using, give it a quick mix to restore its consistency. Avoid refrigerating it unless absolutely necessary, as it may change the texture.

How can I color this icing?

You can easily color this icing by adding gel food coloring to the mixture after it's fully combined. Start with a small amount and mix until you reach your desired shade. Gel colors are recommended as they won’t alter the consistency of the icing as much as liquid colors might.

Is this icing suitable for vegan diets?

This icing, as written, is not vegan due to the use of meringue powder, which typically contains egg whites. For a vegan version, look for egg replacers specifically designed for meringue or use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) combined with powdered sugar and a vegan shortening alternative like coconut oil.

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).

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