Vanilla ‘Buttercream’ Icing

This is something that I have really missed since not being able to have dairy. There is a dairy-free version commercially available, but shelf-stable mass-produced buttercream full of emulsifiers, preservatives, and flavourings pales in comparison to this homemade version. Ready in 15 minutes it takes no time at all to make, and is most definitely worth it.

This recipe will ice 18 cupcakes or one 2-layer 6″ cake.

Ingredients

• 80g vegetable shortening (I use Trex, but other shortening can be used)
• 80g margarine
• 330g icing sugar, sifted
• 2 tsp vanilla extract, not essence
• 1 tsp lemon juice – this is to balance out the fats

Process

1. Put the vegetable shortening and margarine in a stand mixer with paddle attachment and beat for 5-8 minutes, until fully combined, soft, and pale
2. Add half of the icing sugar and beat for 2 minutes, then add the other half and beat for a further 2 minutes
3. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice, and beat for 3 minutes
   • This is also the time to add any colouring; don’t use liquid food colouring as it will make the buttercream too liquid. Gel or powdered colouring work best, and a little goes a long way so start with a tiny amount and gradually build the colour.

Enjoy!

Tips

If your buttercream creates an oily/waxy film in your mouth, this is because the fat hasn’t been fully balanced.  Add more lemon juice 1/2 tsp at a time and beat for 2 minutes each time.

If your buttercream isn’t vanilla-tasting enough, add more vanilla extract 1/2 tsp at a time and beat for 2 minutes each time until desired flavour is reached.

Decorating

If using the buttercream straight away, use a spatula and mix the buttercream until smooth.  This knocks any air bubbles out for a silky, even frosting.  Either use an offset spatula to apply it directly to a cake, or use it in a piping bag.

If making it for use at a later date, put it in an air tight container and in the fridge.  It should last around 1-2 weeks.  Bring back to room temperature and mix out air bubbles before using.