Buttercream

Buttercream is a type of icing or filling used inside cakes, as a coating, and as decoration. In its simplest form, it is made by creaming butter with powdered sugar, although other fats can be used, such as margarine or lard. Colorings and flavorings are often added, such as chocolate, fruit purees, and various extracts.

Types of Buttercream

There are several types of buttercream:

• Simple Buttercream - Also known as American buttercream, it is made with butter, confectioners' sugar, and milk or cream. It is easy to make and has a sweet, creamy flavor.

• Meringue Buttercream - There are two types of meringue buttercream: Swiss and Italian. Both are made by whipping egg whites and sugar into a meringue, then adding butter.

• French Buttercream - This type is made with egg yolks, sugar, and butter. It is very rich and smooth.

• German Buttercream - Also known as custard buttercream, it is made with a custard base, which is then whipped with butter.

• Flour Buttercream - Also known as ermine frosting, it is made by cooking flour and sugar together to make a roux, then beating it with butter.

Uses

Buttercream is used in a variety of ways in baking:

• Filling - Buttercream can be used as a filling in cakes and cupcakes.

• Coating - It can be used to coat the outside of a cake before fondant is applied.

• Decoration - Buttercream can be piped onto cakes and cupcakes for decorative effects.

See Also

• Cake decorating
• Royal icing
• Fondant

Buttercream Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia