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The Perfect French Buttercream Cake Icing Recipe for a Rich & Creamy Finish
French Buttercream is a luxurious icing made with egg yolks, sugar, and butter, giving it a rich and custard-like texture. It’s perfect for those who prefer a decadent and smooth frosting.
Uses for French Buttercream Cake Icing
This icing is great for cakes that need a rich, silky, and slightly glossy finish.
- Elegant layer cakes
- Cupcakes
- Cakes with fruit fillings
- Pastries and eclairs
French Buttercream Cake Icing Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost a two-layer 8-inch cake or 24 cupcakes.
Description
Quick French Buttercream Tips
- Use pasteurized egg yolks if concerned about raw eggs.
- Ensure the sugar syrup reaches 240°F (116°C) before adding it to the yolks.
- If it looks too soft, chill slightly before whipping again.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (60ml) water
- 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat until it reaches 240°F (116°C) on a candy thermometer.
- While syrup is heating, whip egg yolks on medium speed until thick and pale.
- Slowly drizzle the hot syrup into the yolks while beating continuously.
- Continue whipping until the mixture cools.
- Gradually add softened butter, one piece at a time, until the buttercream is smooth and creamy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and salt. Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to a week.
Notes
Similar Cake Icing Recipes
If you love French Buttercream, try Italian Meringue Buttercream (lighter but stable), Swiss Meringue Buttercream (less rich), or Classic American Buttercream (sweeter and easier to prepare).
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
Keywords: French Buttercream
