White Cake Icing

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A smooth, fluffy white cake icing with sweet vanilla flavor, perfect for decorating cakes and cupcakes, suitable for any celebration or special occasion.

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Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup vegetable shortening
  • 1/4 tablespoon vanilla
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Cream the vegetable shortening.
  2. Add vanilla to the mixture.
  3. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well on medium speed after each addition.
  4. When all sugar has been added, the mixture will appear dry.
  5. Add milk to the mixture.
  6. Beat at high speed until the icing is fluffy and smooth.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter icing, consider substituting half of the vegetable shortening with unsalted butter. If you prefer a different flavor, almond extract can be used instead of vanilla. Ensure that the powdered sugar is well sifted to avoid lumps. Mixing the icing on low speed initially can help prevent sugar from flying everywhere. If the icing is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This white cake icing pairs beautifully with a light vanilla or lemon cake. Consider using it to frost cupcakes or as a filling for layered cakes. It also complements desserts like Herbed Taters, adding a touch of sweetness. For a festive touch, sprinkle with colored sugar or edible glitter before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and re-whip to restore its fluffy texture. If you need to soften it further, add a teaspoon of milk gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of White Cake Icing contains roughly 1749 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 188g fat.

1749 kcal 87% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0g
Total Fat 187.5g 100% DV
Carbs 3.5g 1% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 3.5g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1.8mg
Potassium 29.6mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 123.3mg 41% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 2.2mg
Iron 0mg
Diet fit Keto-friendly
Contains Milk

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 few days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using, let it come to room temperature and re-whip to ensure a smooth consistency.

What if my icing is too runny?

If your icing turns out too runny, gradually add more sifted powdered sugar until you reach your desired thickness. A little at a time will help you achieve the right consistency without making it overly sweet.

Can I color this icing for decorating?

Absolutely! You can use gel food coloring for vibrant hues without altering the icing's texture. Start with a small amount and mix until you reach the desired color. Just be cautious not to add too much liquid color, as it may affect 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).

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