My Favorite Decorator Cake Icing

Perfect for transforming any cake into a stunning masterpiece, My Favorite Decorator Cake Icing is a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines creamy, rich flavor with a smooth, pipeable texture. This indulgent frosting features a dreamy blend of softened unsalted butter and vegetable shortening for stability, whipped to perfection with powdered sugar for a light, airy finish. Flavored with pure vanilla and an optional hint of almond extract, this icing strikes the perfect balance between sweet and flavorful, making it ideal for both everyday bakes and special celebrations. Whether you're spreading it over layers or creating intricate designs with a piping bag, this foolproof recipe delivers professional-level results in just 20 minutes. Ideal for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, this decorator icing is easy to customize for consistency and color, promising bakery-quality perfection every time.

Nutriscore Rating: 26/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 24

Ingredients

• 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup Vegetable shortening
• 8 cups Powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon Almond extract (optional)
• 4 tablespoons Whole milk (or heavy cream)
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and vegetable shortening. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2

Reduce the mixer speed to low, then begin gradually adding powdered sugar. Work in small batches, pausing occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 3

Once all the powdered sugar has been incorporated, add the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), salt, and 2 tablespoons of milk (or heavy cream). Beat on low speed until the ingredients are just combined.

Step 4

Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat the icing for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the texture is light, fluffy, and easy to spread.

Step 5

Check the consistency of the icing. For thinner icing, add 1-2 more tablespoons of milk (or cream), a little at a time, beating after each addition. For a thicker consistency suitable for piping intricate designs, leave as-is or gradually mix in an additional 1/4 cup of powdered sugar.

Step 6

Once the icing reaches your desired consistency and flavor, transfer it to a piping bag fitted with your choice of decorating tip or spread it onto your cake or cupcakes using an offset spatula.

Step 7

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow the icing to come to room temperature and re-whip before using again.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1509 grams (1509.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	7622

Total Fat 434.10g	557%
Saturated Fat 185.10g	925%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 523mg	174%
Sodium 668mg	29%
Total Carbohydrate 962.50g	350%
Dietary Fiber 0.00g	0%
Total Sugars 942.30g
Protein 4.00g	8%

Vitamin D 31IU	153%
Calcium 128mg	10%
Iron 1mg	4%
Potassium 152mg	3%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 50.3%

Protein: 0.2%

Carbs: 49.5%