Description

This strawberry icing recipe creates a stunning, glossy pink swirl with a delightful hint of freeze-dried dust, offering vibrant color and natural flavors. It’s a simple, family-friendly topping perfect for elevating cakes and cupcakes.

Ingredients

1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
3–4 tablespoons (45–60 ml) heavy cream or milk
1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
0.5 cup (15 g) freeze-dried strawberries, ground
0.125 teaspoon salt, optional

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Instructions

Cream Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup (226 g) softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Gradually Add Sugar and Liquid: With the mixer on low speed, slowly add about 2 cups (240 g) of powdered sugar, mixing until just combined. Gradually add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of heavy cream or milk, mixing until smooth.
Finish Sugar and Flavoring: Add the remaining 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar in two batches, alternating with the remaining 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) heavy cream or milk until incorporated. Stir in 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract and 0.125 teaspoon salt (if using).
Mix in Strawberry Powder: Grind 0.5 cup (15 g) freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a food processor or blender. Add this powder to the icing and mix on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes until fully combined and a glossy pink color is achieved.
Adjust Icing Consistency: If too thick, add more cream or milk (one teaspoon at a time). If too thin, add more powdered sugar (one tablespoon at a time) until the desired spreadable consistency is reached.

Notes

For quicker prep, ensure butter is at room temperature before starting. For a lighter icing, beat the frosting longer in Step 4 to incorporate more air. Avoid adding all liquid at once; gradually add to control consistency. Do not over-mix once powdered sugar is incorporated. Ensure freeze-dried strawberries are powdered finely for a smooth finish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (approx 30 g)
Calories: 235 calories
Sugar: 30 g
Sodium: 60 mg
Fat: 13 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 31 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 0 g
Cholesterol: 30 mg