Special Buttercream Frosting
This recipe came from Allrecipescom The original recipe called for 2 cups shortening but I followed the advice of one reviewer and used 1 cup shortening and 1 cup real butter instead I loved it She said the all shortening version tasted like grocery store bakery icing I didnt try that She said if you used all butter instead 2 cups that it was very rich and pleasing to most adults I tried that and didnt like it as well as the 12 butter and 12 shortening version
This recipe came from Allrecipescom The original recipe called for 2 cups shortening but I followed the advice of one reviewer and used 1 cup shortening and 1 cup real butter instead I loved it She said the all shortening version tasted like grocery store bakery icing I didnt try that She said if you used all butter instead 2 cups that it was very rich and pleasing to most adults I tried that and didnt like it as well as the 12 butter and 12 shortening version
- Carbohydrate 20.0199000253964 g
- Cholesterol 47.048643059949 mg
- Fat 26.7526742007542 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0.161211666871546 g
- Saturated Fat 14.3109285224014 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (51g)
- Sodium 110.299611250202 mg
- Sugar 20.0199000253964 g
- Trans Fat 1.5750539520066 g
- Calories 318 calories
Step-by-step
- Cream shortening and butter until fluffy. Add confectioner's sugar and continue creaming until well blended.
- Add salt, vanilla, and whipping cream blend on low speed until moistened. Add additional whipping cream if necessary (up to 2 ounces). Beat at high speed until frosting is fluffy.
- Add additional 10 TBL (which is approx 2/3 cup) of heavy whipping cream to get the consistency you like for sugar cookies. Actually, after using this for awhile, I have realized that I should just stick with the called for 6 oz of heavy cream and no extra and it gets too thin when stirring the colors in if you add that much extra cream.
My Favorite Buttercream Frosting: A Baker's Tale
As a busy homemaker, juggling work, family, and a passion for baking, finding the perfect frosting recipe is paramount. It needs to be delicious, relatively easy to make, and versatile enough to top everything from delicate sugar cookies to a towering layer cake. After years of experimenting and countless batches, I've finally found my holy grail: a buttercream frosting that’s so good, it’s practically a dessert on its own. This recipe isn't just about following instructions; it's about embracing the subtle art of balancing flavors and textures.
The journey to this perfect frosting started with a recipe from a popular online cooking site. The original called for an all-shortening base, a choice that, honestly, left the frosting tasting a bit like something straight from the grocery store bakery. Not bad, but definitely not the exquisite, homemade taste I craved. Then, a helpful comment from another baker sparked my inspiration. She suggested reducing the shortening and adding real butter for a richer, more nuanced flavor. Intrigued, I tried it, using equal parts shortening and butter. The result? A revelation! The frosting retained the lightness and ease of spreading that shortening provides, but with the added depth and richness of real butter. It was creamy, smooth, and utterly delicious.
I've since refined the recipe, tweaking it to perfection. I discovered the sweet spot is using exactly 6 ounces of heavy whipping cream; any more, and the frosting becomes too thin, especially if you're adding food coloring to create vibrant hues for holiday baking. This buttercream is incredibly versatile. I use it for my Christmas sugar cookies, transforming them into festive masterpieces. It's equally fantastic on cupcakes, cakes, and even as a simple spread on warm bread. The subtle sweetness, combined with the creamy texture and a hint of vanilla, creates an unforgettable taste that leaves everyone wanting more. And, let me tell you, the ease of preparation is a lifesaver on busy baking days.
This isn't just a frosting recipe; it's a testament to the power of small adjustments and the joy of finding that one perfect recipe that elevates your baking to the next level. So, try it yourself. Experience the magic of a simple, yet extraordinary buttercream frosting that's sure to become your go-to recipe, no matter the occasion.
Beyond the Basics: Tips and Variations
While the recipe is perfect as is, there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen. Here are a few ideas to personalize your buttercream frosting:
- Flavor infusions: Experiment with different extracts, like almond, lemon, or peppermint, to create unique flavor profiles.
- Chocolate indulgence: Add melted chocolate to the frosting for a decadent chocolate buttercream.
- Nutty delight: Stir in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
- Citrus zest: A little bit of lemon or orange zest adds a bright and refreshing note.
No matter how you choose to customize it, this buttercream frosting is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!
