Easy Cake Icing
A quick and easy cake icing that creates a smooth, sweet glaze perfect for angel food cake and other desserts, with a delicate vanilla flavor and sweet finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all the dry ingredients (powdered sugar, cornstarch, salt) in a bowl.
- Add the milk, margarine, and vanilla to the dry mixture.
- Stir well until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Cook the mixture in a Teflon skillet, stirring often.
- Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and becomes clear.
- Use immediately to glaze angel food cake or other desserts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother icing, ensure your margarine is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the vanilla with almond extract or lemon zest. To reduce sweetness, try using less powdered sugar; just balance it with a bit more cornstarch for consistency. This icing recipe is versatile and can be adapted for various desserts, making it a great addition to your collection of American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This easy cake icing pairs beautifully with angel food cake, adding a delightful sweetness. It can also be used to glaze donuts or drizzled over brownies for a rich finish. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or whipped cream for a complete dessert experience. For more creative ideas, browse more vegetarian recipes to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature, then give it a good stir. If it has thickened too much, you can add a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency before using it again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cake Icing contains roughly 453 calories, with 4g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 705mg per serving (31% 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 a different type of milk for this icing?
Yes, you can substitute any type of milk, including almond or soy milk, depending on your dietary preferences. Just keep in mind that the flavor may slightly change, but it will still yield a delicious icing that complements your desserts.
How can I make the icing thicker or thinner?
To thicken the icing, add a bit more cornstarch or powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. If it's too thick, gradually whisk in more milk until it becomes smooth and spreadable. Adjusting the thickness allows you to customize the icing for different uses.
Can this icing be colored for special occasions?
Absolutely! You can add food coloring to the icing to match any theme or occasion. Start with a small amount and mix well until you achieve the desired color. Gel food colors work best for vibrant hues without altering the icing's consistency.
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).