Kate Waller Icing
Kate Waller Icing offers a rich, creamy frosting with a hint of vanilla, perfect for decorating cakes and sweet treats, appealing to those who love classic homemade confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt and brown 1/2 cup sugar in a small skillet.
- Combine 3 cups sugar and sweet milk in a large boiler.
- Bring the mixture to a boil; add browned sugar and continue boiling until it forms a soft ball when dropped in cold water.
- Pour the hot mixture into a mixing bowl with margarine.
- Add vanilla and beat until thick enough to spread on a cake.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh margarine to achieve a smooth texture. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsalted butter. Be careful when boiling the mixture; if it cooks too long, it may become too hard to spread. To avoid crystallization, make sure not to stir the mixture while it boils.
Serving Suggestions
This icing is perfect for topping cakes, especially when paired with a light sponge or chocolate cake. It also complements desserts like Mother's Coconut Pound Cake beautifully. For an added touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for texture. Serve with a side of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature before spreading. If it has thickened too much, you can gently reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds, stirring frequently to maintain its consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kate Waller Icing contains roughly 94 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% 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 regular milk instead of sweet milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but sweet milk contributes a unique flavor. If using regular milk, consider adding a bit of sugar to replicate the sweetness of sweet milk. This adjustment will help maintain the intended taste and texture of the icing.
What can I substitute for vanilla extract?
If you don't have vanilla extract, you can use almond extract for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can omit it entirely or use a vanilla-flavored syrup. Just be cautious with the amount, as some substitutes can be stronger than vanilla.
How do I know when the mixture reaches the soft ball stage?
The soft ball stage occurs when a small amount of the hot mixture dropped into cold water forms a soft, pliable ball. To test, use a spoon to drop a bit of the mixture into the cold water and check if it holds its shape but is still soft. This usually happens around 234-240°F on a candy thermometer.
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).