Are you ready to ditch the confectioners' sugar and still create a stunning, delicious cake icing? This recipe delivers a smooth, creamy frosting without relying on powdered sugar, making it a perfect choice for those with sensitivities or simply looking for a new twist on a classic. It's quicker than you think, and the result is a homemade icing that rivals any store-bought version. This recipe is perfect for adding to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, even if the dinner is already made and this is just for dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind works well)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer, but you can certainly do it by hand (it will just take a bit more elbow grease!). Aim for about 3-5 minutes of mixing.
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Add Milk and Vanilla: Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until everything is well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
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Adjust Consistency: Start with 3 cups of sugar. If you want a thicker icing, add the remaining cup, a little at a time, mixing until you reach your desired consistency. You can also add a little more milk if the icing becomes too thick.
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Add Salt: Stir in a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness.
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Frost Your Cake: Once you’ve achieved your desired consistency, frost your favorite cake! Let the icing set slightly before serving for the best results.
Tips for Success:
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is completely softened to room temperature. This will ensure that it creams properly with the sugar. If it’s too cold, the icing will be grainy.
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Don't Overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in a less stable icing. Mix until everything is just combined.
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Flavor Variations: Get creative with your flavors! Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate icing, or try different extracts like almond, peppermint, or lemon. Fresh fruit purees also make lovely additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, varies based on cake size and icing quantity):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Approximately 10-12g
- Sugar: Approximately 25-30g
Variations:
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Chocolate Icing: Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture along with the sugar.
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Citrus Icing: Add the zest and juice of one lemon or orange for a bright and refreshing icing.
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Cream Cheese Icing: Incorporate 8 ounces of softened cream cheese into the butter and sugar mixture for a richer, tangier frosting.
This easy icing recipe provides a simple and delicious alternative to traditional confectioners' sugar-based frostings. It's a perfect example of a healthy meal option (as part of a balanced diet, of course!), showcasing that homemade cooking can be both simple and rewarding. Perfect for adding to your collection of delicious dishes and best recipes, this icing recipe will elevate your baking game. Enjoy!