Whipped Icing vs. Buttercream
Whipped Icing vs. Buttercream
Cakes and cupcakes are the ultimate celebratory desserts, perfect for birthdays, parties, anniversaries, and weddings. While the flavors of the cake itself are important, the frosting on top really makes them shine. Two common frosting techniques are whipped frosting and buttercream frosting. Although both are used as cake frostings, they differ in their ingredients, flavor, texture, and use for decoration.
What is whipped frosting?
Whipped icing is made from two basic ingredients: whipped cream and powdered sugar. Some whipped icings also contain meringue powder for added stability. The process involves whipping chilled whipping cream until light and fluffy, then gradually adding powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Whipped frosting can be colored with food coloring to achieve desired pastel shades.
What is buttercream?
Buttercream is made from butter or shortening, powdered sugar, milk, and flavorings. The fats (butter or shortening) are whipped until light and fluffy, then milk is added for moisture. Powdered sugar is gradually added until the desired consistency is achieved. Buttercream can be used in its original white color or colored with food coloring. There are variations of buttercream, including American buttercream, decorator’s buttercream, and meringue buttercream.
Difference between whipped cream and buttercream
The main difference between whipped frosting and buttercream is the use of butter or shortening. Buttercream contains butter, which gives it a creamy, buttery, and rich flavor. Whipped frosting, on the other hand, does not contain butter and has a light, airy, and fluffy texture that is more like glaze than traditional frosting.
Texture and taste
Buttercream has a smooth and creamy texture that is easy to spread. Its flavor is sweet and buttery, and it pairs well with various extracts, fruits and chocolate. Whipped cream has a delicate texture that is both smooth and airy. Due to the presence of air in the mix, whipped icing may have visible bubbles or air pockets. Its flavor is lighter compared to buttercream.
Used in cake decorating
Buttercream is a popular choice for decorating cakes and cupcakes because of its medium to thick consistency, ability to hold shape, and ease of piping. It forms a light crust over its soft interior and remains stable at higher temperatures. Buttercream can be used for decorative designs as well as filling between cake layers. Whipped frosting, on the other hand, has a light and delicate consistency, making it more suitable for piping borders rather than intricate designs. It does not hold up well at higher temperatures and is not ideal for stacked and layered cakes.
Storage
In terms of storage, buttercream has a longer shelf life. If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for about 2 weeks. When applied to a cake, it can be stored at room temperature if covered, but should be consumed within 2-3 days. Whipped frosting, on the other hand, will keep in the refrigerator for only 2 days. Because it is primarily whipped cream, it cannot be kept at room temperature and must be refrigerated. Whipped frosting on a cake should be consumed within 2 days.
Conclusion
The choice between whipped frosting and buttercream ultimately comes down to your desired flavor, texture and decorating needs. Buttercream offers a rich and creamy flavor, versatility in decorating, and longer shelf life. Whipped cream, on the other hand, offers a light and airy texture, a delicate flavor, and is best suited for simple piping borders. Consider the occasion, climate and design requirements when deciding which frosting to use for your next cake or cupcake creation.
FAQS
Whipped Icing vs. Buttercream – FAQs
What is the main difference between whipped cream and buttercream?
The main difference is the use of butter or shortening. Buttercream contains butter, giving it a creamy and rich flavor, while whipped icing contains no butter and has a light and airy texture.
Can whipped frosting and buttercream be used interchangeably?
While both can be used as cake frostings, they have different characteristics. Whipped frosting is best for light and delicate decorations, while buttercream is more versatile for intricate designs and filling between cake layers.
How is the texture of whipped frosting different from buttercream?
Whipped frosting has a delicate and airy texture that is similar to glaze, while buttercream has a smooth and creamy texture that is easy to spread.
Which frosting is better for piping decorations?
Buttercream is generally preferred for piping decorations due to its medium to thick consistency and ability to hold its shape well. Whipped frosting is more suitable for simple piped borders.
What is the shelf life of whipped frosting and buttercream?
Buttercream has a longer shelf life. If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for about 2 weeks. Whipped frosting, which is primarily whipped cream, will last only 2 days in the refrigerator.
Can whipped frosting and buttercream be stored at room temperature?
Buttercream can be stored at room temperature if covered, but should be consumed within 2-3 days. Whipped frosting, on the other hand, cannot be stored at room temperature due to its whipped cream content and must be refrigerated.