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Buttercream is a beloved frosting made from butter, sugar, and cream, and it's a staple in every baker's repertoire. It's velvety texture and delicious flavour make it the perfect finishing touch for cakes, cupcakes, and other baked goods. But did you know that there are countless variations of buttercream, each with its own unique flavour and texture?
Buttercream is simple to use, and it can be applied in many ways. One common method is to spread it onto a cake or cupcake using a knife or spatula. Another popular way to apply buttercream is to pipe it onto desserts using a pastry bag and decorative tips. This allows for more intricate designs and a more professional look.
To use buttercream, it should be at room temperature and slightly soft. This makes it easier to spread or pipe onto desserts. If the buttercream is too firm, it can be softened by leaving it at room temperature for a few minutes or by placing it in the microwave for a few seconds. It is important not to overheat the buttercream as it can melt and become unusable.
American Buttercream
This is the simplest and most traditional type of buttercream. Made with just butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk or cream, this buttercream is easy to make and perfect for beginners. It's rich, sweet, and has a slightly grainy texture.
Swiss Meringue Buttercream
This is made by whipping egg whites and sugar into a meringue, then adding butter and flavourings. This buttercream is silky-smooth and not overly sweet, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter frosting.
Italian Meringue Buttercream
Similar to Swiss meringue buttercream this is made by pouring hot sugar syrup into whipped egg whites, creating a more stable meringue. This buttercream is fluffy and airy, with a subtle sweetness and a slight tanginess.
French Buttercream
This indulgent version is made by adding egg yolks to a sugar syrup, then slowly incorporating butter. This buttercream is rich, creamy, and has a velvety texture that's perfect for filling and frosting cakes.
Ermine Buttercream
Also known as cooked flour buttercream or heritage frosting, Ermine Buttercream is made by cooking flour and milk into a thick paste, then beating it with butter and sugar. This buttercream is light and fluffy, with a delicate sweetness and a slightly tangy flavour.
Cream Cheese Buttercream
This is made by combining butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. This buttercream is tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet, making it a perfect pairing for carrot cake or red velvet cake.
