Icing (food)

Icing (also known as frosting) is a sweet, often creamy glaze made of sugar with a liquid, such as water or milk, that is often enriched with ingredients like butter, egg whites, cream cheese, or flavorings and is used to cover or decorate baked goods, such as cakes or cookies.

History

The first known icing-like substance was used in the Middle Ages, and was made with sugar and egg whites. The icing was poured on the cake, then returned to the oven to harden. This method was commonly used up until the 17th century, when confectioners began to use a type of icing made with egg whites and flavorings.

Types of Icing

There are several types of icing used in baking. These include:

• Buttercream: A type of icing made by creaming butter with powdered sugar and sometimes milk. It is light and creamy and is used for filling, coating, and decorating cakes.

• Royal icing: A type of icing that is used to decorate sugar cookies, gingerbread houses, wedding cakes and other desserts. It hardens to a firm finish and is made from powdered sugar, egg whites, and sometimes lemon juice.

• Fondant icing: A type of icing used to cover cakes to give them a smooth, glossy finish. It is made from sugar, water, gelatin, and glycerol.

• Ganache: A type of icing made from chocolate and cream. It can be used as a filling, a coating, or as a decorative glaze.

• Glaze: A thin, glossy icing that is drizzled over pastries or cakes. It is typically made from powdered sugar and a small amount of liquid.

Preparation and Use

Icing can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on the type. Most icings can be made at home, but they are also widely available ready-made in grocery stores. Icing is used to both enhance the flavor of baked goods and to improve their appearance. It can be applied in a simple style, or it can be used to create elaborate decorations, such as flowers or intricate designs.

See Also

• Cake decorating
• List of dessert sauces