Frost Like a Pro: The Mind-Blowing Crusting Buttercream That’ll Turn Your Cakes Into Bakery Masterpieces

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Mastering crusting buttercream changed the way I decorate cakes forever. It’s the perfect frosting for those smooth, sharp edges or detailed piping work, and it sets just firm enough on the outside to handle while staying soft and creamy on the inside.

Whether I’m creating intricate designs or keeping things simple with a spatula swirl, this buttercream never lets me down. Made with just butter, powdered sugar, a hint of vanilla, and a splash of milk, it whips up beautifully smooth and spreads like a dream.

The secret to its magic lies in the sugar-to-fat ratio, which allows the buttercream to develop a delicate “crust” after sitting for a few minutes, making it ideal for any baker who wants a professional finish without hours of effort.

It’s also a fantastic base for adding colors, flavors, or textures, depending on the occasion. If you’re making Banana Pudding Brownies, for instance, you can add a dollop of crusting buttercream for a bit of extra indulgence!

Give this recipe a try and let me know your favorite way to use it – there’s no end to the creative possibilities with this versatile frosting!

this image shows fluffy crusting buttercream in a bowl

Crusting Buttercream

Crusting buttercream is a versatile frosting made with butter, powdered sugar, and milk. It sets up with a smooth, firm texture, making it perfect for decorating cakes and cupcakes. This buttercream allows for detailed piping and holds its shape beautifully.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Condiments
Cuisine American
Servings 12 people
Calories 4700 kcal

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 1 cup shortening, or ½ cup room temperature butter and ½ cup shortening 
  • cups confectioners' sugar
  • ½-¾ cup whole milk, as needed for desired consistency
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract, use clear if want white frosting

Instructions
 

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the shortening and vanilla together for 2 to 4 minutes until creamy.
    this image shows Butter, cream cheese, sugar salt in seperate bowls
  • Gradually incorporate the confectioners' sugar, one cup at a time.
    This image shows a stand mixer bowl with shortening and vanilla being beaten together with the paddle attachment until creamy.
  • If the mixer has difficulty, slowly add milk as needed.
    This image shows milk being used in the stand mixer to adjust the consistency of the frosting.
  • Use more milk for a creamier texture and less for a stiffer consistency.
  • Finally, mix in the salt.

Notes

  • This buttercream can be tinted with food coloring to match your cake or cupcake themes.
NutritionValue
Calories4,700 kcal
Carbohydrates860 g
Protein1 g
Sugar850 g

Delicious Brownies to Serve with Crusting Buttercream!

Helpful Tips For You!

Tip 1: Adjust Consistency Gradually

Add milk gradually, mixing well between additions, to achieve the desired consistency without making the buttercream too runny.

Tip 2: Add Flavor Enhancers

Consider incorporating a pinch of salt or a splash of cream to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.

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