Expertise Needed: Non Dairy Buttercream

Decorating By New2CakeIndus Updated 28 Dec 2016 , 1:09am by jchuck

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New2CakeIndus Posted 24 Dec 2016 , 3:33am
post #1 of 6

looking for some advice for making non-dairy buttercream (due to dairy allergy clients): I typically use 4 sticks of non-dairy margarine, 1 cup vegetable shortening, salt, vanilla extract, confectioner's sugar, & soymilk.

I find that the "buttercream" is always hard to get perfectly smooth, it forms "cracks" and when I try to smooth it out, it creates ridges.

Any recommendations / advice on how to "fix" this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

5 replies
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leah_s Posted 24 Dec 2016 , 7:53pm
post #2 of 6

Add a bit more soymilk


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New2CakeIndus Posted 24 Dec 2016 , 8:04pm
post #3 of 6

thank you

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kakeladi Posted 27 Dec 2016 , 7:48pm
post #4 of 6

If the adding of milk still results in the icing being dry, try adding more 'fat' - either margarin or shortening.  I'd suggest upping it by about 1/4 to 1/3 cup.

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LoraB Posted 27 Dec 2016 , 10:42pm
post #5 of 6

Another option is to use an all shortening based "buttercream." If you can use it or get it in your area, high-ratio shortening or Sweetex is best but Crisco will work. Just make it like you would your normal buttercream except using all shortening. Occasionally we will add more liquid (we use almond milk) depending on the final consistency. This is how we make all our vegan or dairy free frostings. 

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jchuck Posted 28 Dec 2016 , 1:09am
post #6 of 6

I occasionally make vegan icing. I use the cooked flour icing recipe replacing cows milk with almond milk. I personally add a cup or two of icing sugar and a tablespoon of meringue powder to the recipe. Helps the icing firm and crust. Instead of butter I use all shortening, and it still it tastes great. I call it the poor man's smbc..

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