Learning how to store buttercream icing is an important thing considering that it has a tendency to crust when stored the wrong way. Below is a list of methods that you can use to store buttercream icing such that it retains its texture and flavour. Carefully follow these methods for the best results.
Contents
What is buttercream icing?
Buttercream icing is a type of icing that is commonly used on cakes. It can also be used to decorate muffins to make them look more appealing.
How to store buttercream icing in the fridge
This is the first method that you can use to store your buttercream icing. To do this simply transfer your buttercream icing into an air tight container then place it inside the fridge. Alternatively you can place the icing in a piping bag but, make sure you remove the tips. Place the piping bag inside a freezer bag to protect it from the refrigerators moisture. Buttercream icing that is stored in the fridge can last for about a week so make sure you use it within the stipulated time frame.
How to store buttercream icing in the freezer
This is also another method you can use to store buttercream icing. The freezer helps to extend the shelf life of different foods and in the case of buttercream icing it will last for about 2 to 3 months. To store the buttercream in the freezer simply place it in an air tight container and place it inside the freezer. You can label the container with the date in which you are storing the buttercream icing. This will help you to recall when exactly it is expiring.
How to store buttercream icing at room temperature
Buttercream icing can be stored at room temperature for about 2 days. This method is ideal especially if live in cold regions. To store the buttercream icing at room temperature simply place it in an air tight container. Alternatively you can place it in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. This will help to protect the buttercream icing from crusting. Place the container in a cool dark area. When you use it in the morning you can simply rewhip it to help it regain its texture.
Tips for storing buttercream icing
When placing the buttercream icing in either the fridge or the freezer, make sure that you place it far away from any fragrant foods including fish and meat. This is because buttercream icing has a tendency of absorbing the odours of these foods. Therefore, when you try to use your buttercream it will have absorbed an unpleasant smell as well as taste.
How to thaw buttercream icing
To thaw buttercream icing that was previously stored in the freezer simply take it out of the freezer and place into the fridge. This will help to minimize temperature shock and the buttercream icing will retain its texture. You should transfer the buttercream icing a day before. This is because the thawing process can take up to a day depending on the amount of buttercream icing you are defrosting. When the buttercream icing has defrosted in the fridge take it out and place it on a countertop so that it can come to room temperature.
How to get rid of air bubbles in buttercream icing
When the buttercream icing has defrosted and reached room temperature there is a high probability that it will have a lot of air bubbles inside. In order to get rid on the air bubbles simply rewhip the buttercream icing using a stand mixer. The end result should be a buttercream icing that is nice and fluffy.
Why buttercream icing crusts overtime
Most people often ask why their buttercream icing tends to get hard or crust overtime when exposed to air. The reason behind is that buttercream icing has a high sugar content so when exposed to air for a long time it starts to crust. This is not a bad thing and it’s something that you should not be worried about. This is because it makes the buttercream icing the most ideal icing for piping and decorating a cake. The buttercream icing will be able to hold together once placed on the cake.
How to store a cake that is decorated with buttercream icing
Fridge
It is possible to store a cake that has buttercream icing on top. In order to do this you need to start by clearing out your refrigerator. Place the cake inside the fridge and it will remain fresh. There is no need to cover the cake when placing it in the fridge. This is because the buttercream icing acts as an insulator which helps to keep the cake nice and moist. Cake that has a buttercream icing can last for about 3 days in the fridge.
Freezer
The freezer is also another place where you can store a cake that is decorated with buttercream icing. To do this simply start by creating space in your freezer. The next thing is to place the cake in the freezer while uncovered. Let the cake sit in the freezer for about 4 hours or until its frozen solid. Take it out of the freezer and wrap it with plastic wrap and aluminium foil. This will help to protect the cake from freezer burn. Once you have covered the cake simply place it back into the freezer. It can last for about 1 month in the freezer.
How to defrost a cake with buttercream icing
In order to defrost a cake that is decorated with buttercream simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. This will help to minimize temperature shock. Remember to loosen the plastic wrap and aluminium foil so that the cake can defrost properly.
Conclusion
It is possible to store buttercream icing. This means it can be made way ahead of time and stored using the methods highlighted above. Remember to always use the buttercream icing within the given time frames so that you do not eat expired icing
