Description
Silky Swiss Meringue Buttercream is a smooth, subtly sweet, and stable frosting perfect for layer cakes and celebrations. It’s less sweet than American buttercream and holds its shape beautifully for elegant results.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large egg whites (about 120 g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
- 2 cups unsalted butter (450 g), cool room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
Instructions
- Prepare Double Boiler: Combine egg whites and granulated sugar in a heatproof bowl. Set over a saucepan with about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of simmering water, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Whisk constantly for 5-8 minutes until sugar dissolves and mixture reaches 160°F (71°C), feeling smooth when rubbed.
- Whip Meringue: Carefully transfer the hot mixture to a stand mixer bowl (or use a hand mixer). Whip on high speed for 10-15 minutes until stiff, glossy peaks form and the bowl feels cool to the touch.
- Add Butter Gradually: Reduce mixer speed to medium-low. Add cool room-temperature unsalted butter, one piece at a time, mixing until each piece is fully incorporated. Continue whipping for 5-10 minutes if mixture curdles, until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Mix in Flavorings: Once buttercream is smooth, add vanilla extract and any other desired flavorings. Mix for another minute until fully combined and uniformly silky.
Notes
If the buttercream mixture looks curdled or soupy after adding butter, do not panic; it is normal. Keep whipping for another 5-10 minutes, and it will usually come together into a smooth, creamy frosting. Use pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for a more intense flavor. Ensure extracts are gluten-free if catering to specific dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop and Mixing
- Cuisine: General
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice of cake (approx 40 g buttercream)
- Calories: 250 calories
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Swiss meringue buttercream, layer cake, elegant frosting, stable buttercream, easy buttercream, less sweet frosting, stand mixer recipe, celebration cake