When it comes to creating the perfect wedding cake, the icing on the cake (pun intended!) can make all the difference. Not only does it add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall design, but it also provides a delicious and indulgent treat for your guests to enjoy. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 elegant wedding cake icing recipes that are sure to delight both you and your taste buds.
From classic vanilla buttercream to rich chocolate ganache, and from silky Swiss meringue buttercream to whipped white chocolate ganache, these recipes offer a wide range of flavors and textures to suit every style and preference. Whether you’re looking for a subtle hint of flavor or a bold statement piece, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll be diving deeper into each of these delicious icing recipes, sharing tips and tricks on how to achieve the perfect consistency and presentation. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
Classic Vanilla Buttercream Icing
Elevate your baked goods with this timeless classic vanilla buttercream icing recipe. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this creamy and sweet frosting is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 4-6 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar to the bowl, beating continuously until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Add the milk or heavy cream, starting with 4 tablespoons and adding more as needed, until the desired consistency is reached (should be thick but spreadable).
5. Beat for an additional minute to ensure well-combined.
Cooking Time:
0 minutes! This frosting comes together in just a few minutes of mixing.
Silky Swiss Meringue Buttercream
Elevate your cakes with a smooth and creamy Swiss meringue buttercream that’s perfect for topping, filling, or piping. This recipe yields a generous amount of buttercream that will keep you going all season long!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites (about 4 large eggs)
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, egg whites, and cream of tartar.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. With an electric mixer, beat the mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form.
5. Add softened butter a tablespoon at a time, beating until fully incorporated after each addition.
6. Beat in vanilla extract.
7. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Rich Chocolate Ganache Icing
Elevate your baked goods with this decadent chocolate ganache icing that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Remove the cream from the heat and immediately add in the dark chocolate chips. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chocolate to melt.
3. Stir the mixture gently until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth.
4. Add in the unsalted butter and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using it to top your baked goods.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cream Cheese Frosting with Lemon Zest
Elevate your baked goods with this tangy and creamy frosting that combines the richness of cream cheese with the brightness of lemon zest. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and zest.
5. Beat in any remaining lumps or air pockets.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None needed! This frosting is ready to use immediately.
Velvety Italian Meringue Buttercream
This rich and creamy buttercream is a perfect topping for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. With its smooth texture and delicate flavor, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and cream of tartar in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the syrup reaches 240°F (115°C).
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Gradually pour hot syrup into egg whites while continuously whipping.
4. Beat in softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Cooking Time: None
Whipped White Chocolate Ganache
Elevate your desserts with this rich and creamy whipped white chocolate ganache, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or fruit parfaits. This simple recipe yields a smooth and velvety texture that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In the melted white chocolate, whisk in the butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Gradually pour the melted white chocolate mixture into the whipped cream, gently folding until fully incorporated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including melting time)
Earl Grey Tea Infused Buttercream
Elevate your baking game with this unique and delicious Earl Grey tea infused buttercream recipe, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. The subtle citrus notes of the Earl Grey tea pair perfectly with sweet vanilla flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons Earl Grey tea leaves (or 1 teaspoon loose-leaf tea)
– 2 tablespoons whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Brew the Earl Grey tea leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes. Strain the tea and let it cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whip the softened butter until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, whipping continuously.
4. Add the cooled Earl Grey tea, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: N/A
Rosewater and Pistachio Icing
Elevate your baked goods with this exotic and aromatic icing, perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. This unique flavor combination is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons rosewater
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2-3 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and rosewater until well combined.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the chopped pistachios.
4. If desired, add yellow food coloring to give the icing a subtle yellow hue.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Espresso Coffee Buttercream
Elevate your coffee treats with this rich and creamy buttercream infused with the bold flavor of espresso. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or using as a filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 4 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the espresso powder and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Passionfruit Curd and Meringue Icing
This sweet and tangy combination is perfect for topping cakes, cookies, or even using as a filling. With its vibrant orange color and burst of tropical flavor, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
For the Passionfruit Curd:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) passionfruit puree
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Meringue Icing:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and passionfruit puree. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Let cool to room temperature.
4. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
5. Spread cooled curd on desired surface. Top with meringue icing, spreading evenly.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (curd) + 30-40 minutes (meringue icing to set)
Honey Lavender Buttercream
Elevate your baked goods with the sweet and floral flavor of honey lavender buttercream. This recipe combines the richness of buttercream with the subtle notes of lavender and a touch of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 2-3 drops lavender extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, whipping continuously until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the honey and whip until well combined.
4. Stir in the dried lavender buds and lavender extract (if using).
5. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required – simply assemble and serve!
Raspberry Swiss Meringue Frosting
Elevate your cake game with this sweet and tangy raspberry swiss meringue frosting, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 2 tablespoons raspberry jam or preserves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
5. Slowly pour the warm sugar mixture into the egg whites while continuously beating until stiff peaks form.
6. Add raspberry jam or preserves and salt; mix until well combined.
Cooking Time: None required. Simply assemble and use!
Matcha Green Tea Buttercream
Elevate your baking game with this unique and refreshing Matcha Green Tea Buttercream recipe! This sweet and tangy spread is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons matcha green tea powder
– 4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
3. Add the matcha green tea powder and mix until well combined.
4. Add the milk and vanilla extract, beating until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s light and fluffy.
Cooking Time: None
This Matcha Green Tea Buttercream recipe makes approximately 2 cups of frosting. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Coconut Cream Cheese Icing
Coconut Cream Cheese Icing: A Rich and Creamy Treat!
This indulgent icing is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. With its creamy texture and subtle coconut flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons shredded coconut
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the shredded coconut and vanilla extract.
4. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Cooking Time: None! This icing is ready to use as soon as it’s mixed.
Caramel Salted Buttercream
Elevate your baked goods with this rich and creamy buttercream recipe, infused with the perfect balance of caramel and salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the caramel sauce and sea salt; mix until well combined.
4. Add the heavy cream; mix until the desired consistency is reached (add more or less as needed).
5. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s light and fluffy.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of caramel sauce to your taste.
– Use this buttercream to top cakes, cupcakes, or cookies for a sweet and salty treat.
Champagne Infused Buttercream
This decadent buttercream is infused with the subtle flavors of champagne, adding a sophisticated twist to any cake or cupcake. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons champagne, chilled
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the chilled champagne and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Beat the mixture for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the flavors are well combined.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– For a more intense champagne flavor, use a higher-quality or vintage champagne.
– Experiment with different types of milk or creamers to adjust the richness and texture of the buttercream.
Orange Blossom Buttercream
Add a touch of exotic elegance to your cakes and cupcakes with this fragrant Orange Blossom Buttercream recipe. The subtle sweetness of orange blossom water combines perfectly with the richness of butter and cream, creating a truly unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 4-6 drops orange food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the orange blossom water and vanilla extract; mix well to combine.
4. If desired, add a few drops of orange food coloring to tint the buttercream.
5. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s light and airy.
Cooking Time: None
Almond Amaretto Icing
Elevate your cakes and cookies with this decadent almond amaretto icing recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. With its delicate balance of sweet and nutty flavors, this icing is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon amaretto liqueur (or to taste)
– 2-3 drops almond flavoring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add the almond extract and amaretto liqueur; whisk until well combined.
3. If desired, add the almond flavoring and whisk to combine.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cook Time: None! This is a no-bake icing recipe.
Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your baked goods with this indulgent frosting that combines the smoothness of cream cheese with the nutty flavor of peanut butter. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the peanut butter and mix until well combined.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the milk and mix until the desired consistency is reached.
Cooking Time: None
Notes:
– For a lighter frosting, add more milk. For a thicker frosting, add less milk.
– This frosting is best used fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Spiced Chai Latte Buttercream
This rich and creamy buttercream frosting is infused with the warm spices of chai, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black tea leaves or 1-2 teaspoons chai spice blend
– 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the ground spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger) and tea leaves/black tea blend. Beat until well combined.
4. Add the milk/heavy cream and beat until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required!
Summary
Get ready to impress with these 20 elegant wedding cake icing recipes! From classic vanilla buttercream to rich chocolate ganache, and from creamy Swiss meringue to decadent caramel salted buttercream, there’s something for every taste and style. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these unique and mouthwatering flavors are sure to delight your guests. With ingredients ranging from simple pantry staples to exotic spices and teas, this collection has everything you need to create the perfect wedding cake. Start planning your sweet masterpiece today!
