Creating Vegan Frostings and Icings for Cakes and Cupcakes
Title: Creating Vegan Frostings and Icings for Cakes and Cupcakes
Introduction:
Are you tired of using the same old dairy-based frosting or icing for your cakes and cupcakes? Do you want to impress your friends and family with something new, creative, and delicious? Look no further! In this article, we will explore some amazing vegan frosting and icing recipes that are not only cruelty-free but also packed with flavor.
Types of Vegan Frostings and Icings:
1. Chocolate Vegan Frosting:
This classic chocolate frosting is perfect for any occasion. It’s rich, creamy, and can be customized with different types of cocoa powder, such as Dutch-process or natural. You can also add in your favorite sweetener, like maple syrup, coconut sugar, or agave nectar.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or sweetener of choice)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond, soy, or cashew milk)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.
2. Whisk in the cornstarch and salt until there are no lumps.
3. Gradually whisk in the non-dairy milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Remove from heat and transfer to a mixing bowl.
5. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
2. Vanilla Bean Vegan Buttercream Frosting:
This decadent frosting tastes just like its dairy-based counterpart but is made entirely from plant-based ingredients. It’s perfect for layer cakes, cupcakes, and even frosting cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large banana, mashed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Beat the butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
2. Add the mashed banana and beat until well combined.
3. Add the vanilla extract and salt and mix well.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
3. Strawberry Cream Cheese Vegan Frosting:
This tangy and sweet frosting is a great alternative to traditional cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for strawberry shortcake or any other berry-filled dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup vegan butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk
– 1/2 cup frozen strawberries, thawed
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the strawberries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until they begin to burst. Allow to cool completely.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
4. Add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and non-dairy milk and mix until well combined.
5. Add the baked strawberries and lemon juice and mix until everything is fully incorporated.
6. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe onto your desired treats.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
4. Lemon Curd Vegan Frosting:
This tart and tangy frosting is perfect for pairing with citrus-flavored cakes and cupcakes. It’s also great as a filling for fruit tarts or as a dip for fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vegan butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk
– 1/4 cup lemon curd
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the cocoa powder and non-dairy milk and mix until well combined.
4. Add the lemon curd and lemon juice and mix until everything is fully incorporated.
5. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe onto your desired treats.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Conclusion:
These vegan frosting and icing recipes are sure to impress your guests at your next gathering. They’re easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So go ahead and experiment with these recipes and find your new favorite way to top off your cakes and cupcakes.
