Some Tips On Wedding Cake Frosting
The type of icing used on a wedding cake seems like a rather unimportant part of the general wedding planning process. Most couples want their cake to look amazing but they usually are more worried about the total cost of the cake, how many people it will serve, and what flavor the cake will actually be. Lost in all of this chaos is the frosting, a key component of the cake and the most visible feature of the wedding cake. The frosting will in fact be the first thing that people see even though they are looking at the size and layering of the cake. The frosting will be the most expensive part of the cake and it will be a key factor when it comes to the taste of the cake. That’s why it is critical to pay close attention to the frosting being used on your wedding cake.
Should You Use Fondant?
Fondant is a very basic type of frosting and has actually been used with wedding cakes for some time. The recipe is simple; sugar, water, possibly a gelatin (for body) and vegetable shortening are the key ingredients commonly used. Fondant icing is sturdy and tasty, although some people don’t like the texture that comes from the shortening. The final result is a shiny frosting that looks great.
Buttercream Frosting
As people become more aware of trans fats and saturated fats the use of buttercream frosting has made a dramatic comeback. While the cost is usually higher (butter versus shortening) the taste difference can be dramatic. Fondant will probably stay firm longer but unless the cake is in a horribly hot room buttercream frostings should last for the entire event.
Each Icing Will Taste Different
Don’t assume that you know what a vanilla buttercream frosting will taste like. Every baker turns out different icings and each have little touches that can affect the taste. While flavors are well known, be sure and test the different options that you have. Fundamental icings such as buttercream icing or royal icing (fondant) may look similar but their taste will vary wildly. Don’t be afraid to try different flavors of icing, there is no rule that says all wedding cakes have to be vanilla.
Liven Things Up With Interesting Colors
It may be traditional to stick to the fundamental white color for the frosting for wedding event cakes, it isn’t a law. If it is a spring wedding you can try pastel colors. A fall wedding could mean darker colors. Your icing color should match the flavor of your cake. It would probably be confusing to your guests to have a chocolate cake with a light pastel pink icing.
Play With the Cake Type
Too often wedding cakes stick with plain, basic flavors. While this is safe and might guarantee that none of their guests will be offended, there are many people who will take pleasure in different flavors of wedding cake. If you love chocolate there is no reason to settle for a vanilla cake. One of the best ways to have a unique cake is to play with the type of cake that you plan on serving. Lots of weddings have cheesecake as their wedding cake while others are trotting out designer cupcakes. Be sure to utilize the best frosting to compliment the cake.
There are multiple choices for you to select from for the icing for your wedding event cake. A recent trend with wedding planners has been to go with a rich, creamy buttercream icing or royal icing. These icings are sturdy, they won’t melt easily, and almost everyone loves the rich, creamy taste.
It’s okay to break the rules with your wedding cake by making it stand out. After all, it’s your day and your cake should reflect your personality. By breaking the standards and thinking differently, you can have an intriguing, fascinating and unforgettable wedding cake.
