Easy Crisco Frosting Recipe
If you are preparing for the holidays you are likely looking at making a lot of frosting. While I love buttercream frosting it doesn’t always hold up all that great when the heat is on and it tends to cost a lot now that the price of butter has gone up. This frosting recipe with Crisco is great for helping lower the cost of your holiday treats.
Frosting is the pièce de résistance that transforms a simple cake into a decadent masterpiece. While there are various ingredients to choose from when crafting the perfect frosting, one unsung hero stands out – Crisco.
Beyond its traditional role in pie crusts, Crisco can be a game-changer in the world of frosting, offering a unique combination of creaminess and stability. In this blog post, we’ll explore the wonders of using Crisco for making frosting and share a delightful recipe to get you started.
Why you should try frosting with Crisco
Creaminess: One of Crisco’s standout features is its ability to create a luxuriously creamy texture in frosting. Unlike butter alone, Crisco adds a smooth and velvety consistency, making your frosting irresistible.
Stability: Crisco is a solid fat at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for achieving stable and pipeable frosting. This is particularly advantageous when you want intricate designs or a smooth finish on your cakes. This frosting is perfect when planning summer parties because it can hold up to the summer heat better than any other frosting option.
Neutral Flavor: Crisco has a neutral flavor profile, allowing the other ingredients in your frosting to shine. This makes it a versatile choice for various flavor combinations, from classic vanilla to more adventurous options.
Tips for amazing frosting using Crisco
Ensure that both the Crisco and butter are at room temperature for a smoother blending process.
Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture to prevent lumps.
Experiment with different flavor extracts, such as almond or citrus, to customize your frosting.
A Tried-and-True Crisco Frosting Recipe:
Now that we’ve extolled the virtues of using Crisco in frosting, let’s dive into a simple and delicious recipe that showcases its potential.
Classic Crisco Buttercream Frosting
:: 1 cup Crisco
:: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
:: 4 cups powdered sugar
:: 1/4 cup whole milk
:: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to make Crisco frosting
In a large bowl, beat together the Crisco and butter until creamy and well combined.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, continuing to beat the mixture until light and fluffy.
If needed, adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or more milk for a smoother texture.
Once you’ve achieved your desired consistency, your Crisco buttercream frosting is ready to be used!
Ways to flavor Crisco frosting
Flavoring Crisco frosting opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to customize your creations to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delightful ways to infuse flavor into your Crisco frosting:
Vanilla Extract:
A classic choice, vanilla extract enhances the natural sweetness of Crisco frosting. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. You can make your own vanilla extract or try one of these vanilla extract substitutes.
Almond Extract:
Add a hint of nuttiness with almond extract. This pairs exceptionally well with a variety of cake flavors.
Citrus Zest:
Incorporate the zest of lemons, limes, or oranges for a burst of citrusy freshness. This works particularly well in light and fruity frostings.
Coffee or Espresso:
For a rich and slightly bitter undertone, add a small amount of cooled brewed coffee or espresso. This is a great way to complement chocolate-flavored frostings.
Cocoa Powder:
Intensify the chocolate flavor by mixing in unsweetened cocoa powder. This is a must for chocolate lovers.
Maple Syrup:
Bring a touch of warmth to your frosting by drizzling in some maple syrup. It pairs wonderfully with autumn-inspired desserts.
Fruit Purees:
Experiment with fruit purees such as raspberry, strawberry, or mango. These not only add flavor but also infuse natural color.
Peppermint Extract:
Create a refreshing and festive frosting by incorporating peppermint extract. Ideal for holiday-themed treats.
Coconut Extract:
Give your frosting a tropical twist with coconut extract. This pairs well with pineapple or coconut-flavored cakes.
Cinnamon or Spice Blends:
Spice up your frosting with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pre-made spice blend. This works particularly well for fall or winter-themed desserts.
Liqueurs or Extracts:
Explore the world of flavored liqueurs or extracts, such as hazelnut liqueur or coconut extract, to add a unique and adult twist to your frosting.
Salted Caramel:
Drizzle in some salted caramel sauce for a decadent and trendy flavor. Perfect for elevating plain vanilla or chocolate frostings.
Mint Extract:
Infuse a cool and refreshing taste with mint extract. This pairs exceptionally well with chocolate-flavored frostings.
Remember to start with a small amount of flavoring and taste as you go, gradually adding more until you achieve the desired intensity. With these creative flavoring options, you can take your Crisco frosting to new heights, delighting your taste buds with every bite.
In the world of frosting, Crisco proves to be a valuable ally, bringing creaminess, stability, and a neutral flavor to the table. By incorporating Crisco into your frosting recipes, you open up a world of possibilities for creating visually stunning and delectably delicious treats. So, the next time you’re in the kitchen, consider reaching for that iconic blue can – your taste buds will thank you!
