Buttercream Recipe for “Love With Recipes”
Introduction
This buttercream recipe is a delightful treat for those looking to enhance their baking projects with a smooth, velvety frosting. Ideal for decorating cakes, cupcakes, or any sweet creation that deserves a beautiful touch, this rich buttercream can be customized in numerous ways, from adding flavor to coloring for different themes. The beauty of buttercream lies in its versatility and smooth texture, making it the perfect choice for professional-looking results. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the process of making both traditional buttercream and a meringue-based buttercream, the latter being especially useful for creating intricate, decorative designs.
Ingredients
Traditional Buttercream
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butter | 175g |
| Sugar | 150g |
| Egg Yolks | 90g |
| Water | 50g |
| Vanilla Bean | 1 |
| Butter | 300g |
| Sugar | 250g |
| Water | 50g |
| Egg Whites | 100g |
Meringue Buttercream (for Decorating)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Water | 50g |
| Sugar | 250g |
| Egg Whites | 100g |
| Butter | 300g |
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving for Traditional Buttercream)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 145 |
| Fat | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Protein | 1g |
Note: Values are based on a serving size of 1 tablespoon of buttercream.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup for Traditional Buttercream
Start by making the sugar syrup for the base of your buttercream. In a saucepan, combine 150g of sugar and 50g of water. Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble. This will form the syrup that gives the buttercream its structure.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Yolks
While your syrup is heating up, place the egg yolks into a stand mixer or a large bowl if using an electric mixer. Begin to whisk the egg yolks at medium speed, preparing them to incorporate the syrup. The goal here is to get the yolks airy and frothy before you add the hot syrup.
Step 3: Add the Syrup
Once the syrup has reached the desired temperature (about 115°C), carefully pour it into the egg yolks in a thin stream, ensuring it doesn’t come into direct contact with the whisks. This step is crucial for creating a smooth, glossy texture. Continue whipping the yolks and syrup mixture at high speed until the mixture has completely cooled and has formed a thick, pale custard-like consistency.
Step 4: Prepare the Butter
While the egg yolks are cooling, cut the remaining butter into small cubes. Place it into a bowl and allow it to soften to room temperature. Once the egg yolk mixture is cool, it’s time to incorporate the butter.
Step 5: Combine the Butter with the Yolk Mixture
Gradually add the softened butter to the cooled yolk mixture, a little at a time. This helps the buttercream emulsify smoothly without separating. Continue mixing until the butter is fully incorporated, and the buttercream has a silky, smooth consistency.
Step 6: Add Vanilla
For added flavor, scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean and mix them into the buttercream. If you don’t have a vanilla bean, feel free to use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract instead.
Meringue Buttercream (For Decoration)
If you’re looking to create a firmer, more stable buttercream perfect for decorating cakes or cupcakes, the meringue version is a great option.
Step 1: Make the Sugar Syrup for Meringue Buttercream
In a saucepan, combine 50g of water and 250g of sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Let the syrup come to a boil until it reaches 121°C.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Whites
While the sugar syrup is heating, place 100g of egg whites into a stand mixer. Begin whisking the egg whites on medium speed until they form soft peaks. Once the syrup reaches the correct temperature, carefully pour it into the egg whites in a thin stream. Make sure the syrup doesn’t touch the whisk or the sides of the bowl.
Step 3: Whisk Until Firm Peaks Form
Increase the speed of the mixer to high and continue to whisk the egg whites and sugar syrup until stiff peaks form. The meringue should be glossy and firm, and when you lift the whisk, a peak should hold its shape.
Step 4: Add the Butter
Once your meringue has cooled to room temperature, begin adding the softened butter (about 300g) in small pieces, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Continue to mix until the buttercream becomes smooth and fluffy. The texture should be light and airy, perfect for creating delicate swirls on cakes and cupcakes.
Step 5: Add Color (Optional)
If you wish to color your meringue buttercream, add food coloring a few drops at a time and mix until you reach the desired shade. This is also the stage where you can add any flavorings or extracts of your choice.
Step 6: Decorate Your Creations
Once your buttercream is ready, transfer it to a piping bag with your preferred nozzle, and you’re all set to start decorating! Pipe beautiful swirls, rosettes, or borders onto cupcakes, small cakes, or cookies. This buttercream holds its shape exceptionally well and is perfect for intricate decorations.
Tips for Perfect Buttercream
- Ensure your butter is soft but not too melty. Softened butter will mix in smoothly without becoming greasy.
- For a smoother, more stable buttercream, you can refrigerate it for a short period and re-whip before using.
- When coloring your buttercream, be mindful of using gel food colors to avoid thinning the texture with liquid dyes.
- If the buttercream becomes too soft while working with it, chill it for 15 minutes before continuing to pipe.
Conclusion
This buttercream recipe, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, will elevate any baked good it adorns. Whether you choose the traditional or meringue version, this recipe guarantees stunning results that are sure to impress at any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your mixer, and get ready to create show-stopping cupcakes, cakes, and more with this versatile buttercream!
Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with your friends and family—they’ll be amazed!
