Why is my cream cheese frosting so soft?
I am using (almost) the CupcakeJemma recipe for cream cheese frosting:
- 150g soft unsalted butter
- 240g cream cheese
- 320g icing sugar (confectioner’s/powdered sugar)
The listed recipe says to use 960g sugar (admittedly this is an increased amount to make the cake in the video a stronger structure.)
Though I’m using much less sugar, my frosting is coming out much softer than I expected. What can I do to make is less runny/firmer (other than adding more sugar?
Best Answer
There are 3 ways to approach this without changing the flavor of your frosting:
- Add cornstarch or arrowroot
- Add gelatin powder or sheets
- Add Xanthan or Guar gum
However, as you are adding far less sugar than the recipe says you may have to add a lot of these, and that will impact the structure. If you have gelatin I'd go for that first, then arrowroot if you have it or cornstarch if you don't. If you have gums and know how to use them they can work magic, but if you go overboard the result can be, well...gummy.
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Quick Answer about "Why is my cream cheese frosting so soft?"
Our answer. Unfortunately occasionally cream cheese frosting does liquefy and this mainly comes from the liquid in the cream cheese mixing with the icing (confectioners') sugar and dissolving it, leading to a runny icing. Adding extra sugar will not correct the problem and will also lead to a frosting that is too sweet ...How can I firm up my cream cheese frosting?
How do you thicken cream cheese frosting? The best way to thicken cream cheese frosting is to refrigerate it for 5-10 minutes. As the butter cools, it'll help firm up the frosting. You can also add meringue powder to thicken the frosting and keep it stable.Why is my cream cheese frosting too soft?
WHY IS MY CREAM CHEESE FROSTING RUNNY? This can happen if you use a low-quality cream cheese that has a higher water content, or if you use cream cheese from a tub instead of the kind that comes in a brick. Make sure to buy the best quality, full-fat, block cream cheese you can get your hands on.How do I fix runny cream cheese frosting?
Cornstarch is a good way to thicken the frosting without increasing its sweetness. Mix 1 tablespoon (25 grams) of cornstarch into the frosting. If it is still too runny, add a little more. Continue to add cornstarch until you are happy with the texture.How do you fix frosting that is too soft?
Most frostings contain powdered sugar, or icing sugar, and the most common way to thicken a runny frosting is by gradually mixing in a bit more powdered sugar to offset the liquid ingredients. Sprinkle in 1 to 2 tbsp (15 to 30 mL) of powdered sugar at a time, then stir it in and check the consistency.Why is my cream cheese frosting runny?
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