Alice's Butter Frosting
Alice's Butter Frosting Recipe - Irresistible & Easy-to-Make
Introduction
Alice's Butter Frosting is a delightful and creamy topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and a variety of baked goods. This recipe offers a rich, buttery flavor that enhances any dessert it accompanies. The unique preparation method, involving the gradual addition of hot milk to a sugar and Crisco mixture, results in a smooth, whipped cream-like consistency that's both luxurious and easy to spread. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this butter frosting is sure to elevate your baking creations.
History
The origins of butter frosting can be traced back to the 18th century, where it began as a simple mixture of butter, sugar, and sometimes eggs. Over the years, it has evolved into various forms, incorporating different flavors and ingredients. Alice's Butter Frosting, with its unique use of Crisco and hot milk, is a modern twist on the classic, offering a lighter texture and a versatile flavor base for additional ingredients or flavorings.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Mix sugar and Crisco together.
- Heat milk until it is hot to the touch (do not boil).
- Add half of the milk to the sugar-Crisco mixture and beat for 2 minutes.
- Add the remaining milk and continue beating for 8 minutes (a total of 10 minutes altogether).
- The beating process will break up the sugar granules and create a whipped cream-like consistency, similar to butter.
- To make a whipped cream frosting, substitute white Crisco for butter-flavored Crisco (this is a useful alternative when confectioners' sugar is not available).
- Enjoy.
Variations
- For a chocolate version, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the sugar-Crisco mixture. For a citrus twist, incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange. These variations can add a delightful new flavor profile to your desserts.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
For the best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This improves the mixing process and results in a smoother frosting. When heating the milk, use a thermometer to avoid overheating; it should be hot to the touch but not boiling. Gradual addition of milk is key to achieving the right consistency, so be patient and add it slowly while continuously beating the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Alice's Butter Frosting is versatile and can be used to top a variety of desserts, including cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. For a festive touch, add food coloring to the frosting or top with sprinkles, nuts, or fruit.
Cooking Techniques
The key technique in this recipe is the gradual addition of hot milk while continuously beating the mixture. This process requires patience but results in a smooth, creamy frosting that's unparalleled in texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or soy milk. If Crisco is not available, unsalted butter can be used, though the texture and flavor will slightly differ.
Make Ahead Tips
This frosting can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick beat to restore its creamy texture.
Presentation Ideas
For an elegant presentation, use a piping bag with a star tip to apply the frosting to your desserts. Garnish with fresh berries or edible flowers for a touch of sophistication.
Pairing Recommendations
Alice's Butter Frosting pairs beautifully with classic vanilla or chocolate cake. It also complements fruit-flavored cakes, such as lemon or strawberry, adding a rich, creamy contrast to the light, fruity flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any unused frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To use, allow it to reach room temperature and re-whip if necessary to restore its creamy consistency. This frosting does not freeze well due to its dairy content.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A serving of Alice's Butter Frosting contains approximately 200 calories. The majority of these calories come from sugars and fats, making it a high-energy topping that should be enjoyed in moderation.
Carbohydrates
A single serving of Alice's Butter Frosting contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the granulated sugar. This makes it a high-carb topping option, ideal for those looking for an energy boost but should be consumed in moderation by individuals monitoring their carbohydrate intake.
Fats
This frosting is relatively high in fats, with about 15 grams per serving, owing to the Crisco and milk. The fats contribute to the creamy texture and rich flavor of the frosting but should be considered in the context of a balanced diet.
Proteins
Alice's Butter Frosting contains minimal protein, with less than 1 gram per serving. As such, it's not a significant source of protein but rather a flavorful addition to desserts.
Vitamins and minerals
While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, this frosting does provide small amounts of calcium and vitamin D from the milk. These nutrients contribute to bone health and should be part of a balanced diet.
Alergens
This recipe contains milk, a common allergen. Individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy should avoid this frosting or consider lactose-free milk alternatives.
Summary
Overall, Alice's Butter Frosting is a delicious, high-calorie, and high-fat option that adds a rich, creamy texture and sweet flavor to desserts. It contains minimal protein and is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals. Those with dietary restrictions or allergies to milk should take caution.
Summary
Alice's Butter Frosting is a rich, creamy, and versatile topping that can elevate any dessert. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's an accessible recipe for bakers of all levels. Whether you're looking to add a touch of sweetness to your favorite cake or experimenting with new dessert flavors, this frosting is sure to impress.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a sunny afternoon in the spring of 1965 when I was visiting my dear friend Alice. Alice was an incredible baker, and her cakes were always the talk of the town. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping tea, she suddenly pulled out a tattered old recipe card from her drawer and handed it to me.
"Mary, I want you to have this recipe," she said with a warm smile. "It's my secret butter frosting recipe that I've been using for years. I know you'll love it just as much as I do."
I was touched by her gesture and carefully examined the recipe card. The ingredients were simple – butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a dash of milk. But I could tell from the look on Alice's face that there was something special about this recipe.
"I learned this recipe from my grandmother when I was just a young girl," Alice explained. "She used to make this frosting for all of our family gatherings, and everyone always raved about it. I've tweaked it a bit over the years, but the basic recipe remains the same."
I thanked Alice profusely and promised to give the recipe a try. Little did I know that this simple act of generosity would lead to a lifelong love affair with Alice's butter frosting.
When I got home, I wasted no time in whipping up a batch of the frosting. The smell of butter and vanilla filled my kitchen, and as I spread a thick layer of the creamy frosting onto a freshly baked cake, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The frosting was light and fluffy, with just the right amount of sweetness. It was the perfect complement to any cake, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family.
From that day on, Alice's butter frosting became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for birthdays, holidays, and any other occasion that called for a delicious treat. I even started experimenting with different flavor variations, adding in citrus zest, cocoa powder, or even a splash of rum for a boozy twist.
As the years passed, I continued to make Alice's butter frosting, passing the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren. It became a beloved family tradition, and no celebration was complete without a cake topped with that luscious, velvety frosting.
But it wasn't just my family who fell in love with Alice's butter frosting. I started bringing cakes to church potlucks, school events, and neighborhood gatherings, and soon enough, I had a reputation as the best baker in town. People would ask me for the recipe, but I always kept it close to my heart, honoring the bond I shared with Alice and the memories we had created together.
Over the years, I made countless batches of Alice's butter frosting, each one bringing me joy and satisfaction. The simple act of mixing butter and sugar together had become a form of therapy for me, a way to relax and unwind after a long day. And every time I took a bite of a cake frosted with Alice's recipe, I was transported back to that sunny afternoon in 1965, sitting in Alice's kitchen and feeling the warmth of her friendship.
As I sit here now, reflecting on the years that have passed, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift that Alice gave me that day. Her butter frosting recipe has brought me so much happiness and connected me to a community of people who share my love for baking. And though Alice may no longer be with us, her spirit lives on in every cake I make, reminding me of the power of a simple recipe and the joy that it can bring to others.
So the next time you find yourself in need of a delicious frosting for your cake, look no further than Alice's butter frosting. I promise you won't be disappointed. Just remember to savor each bite and cherish the memories that come with it. Happy baking!