Your Guide to Homemade Vegan Frostings
Creating your own vegan frosting from scratch offers complete control over the ingredients and flavor. Most classic frostings can be easily converted to a vegan version with a few simple substitutions. The key is replacing dairy products like butter, milk, and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives that provide the necessary fat and texture. These homemade options ensure a fresh, delicious finish for any cake or cupcake.
Vegan Buttercream Frosting
Vegan buttercream is a staple in the world of dairy-free baking, mimicking the classic version perfectly. It is light, fluffy, and holds its shape well for piping and decorating. The primary ingredients are powdered sugar, plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract. Opt for stick-style vegan butters with a higher fat content, as they produce a more stable and less watery frosting. Brands like Violife and Country Crock offer reliable plant-based butter sticks. Powdered sugar should also be checked, as some brands in the US use bone char in processing; organic versions are typically vegan.
Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
A tangy and rich cream cheese frosting can also be made vegan with great success. The base uses vegan butter and vegan cream cheese, which is now widely available from brands like Violife and Daiya. It is crucial to use a firm, block-style vegan cream cheese for the best results. Over-mixing can cause the frosting to become runny, so beat the ingredients just until combined. A little lemon juice can enhance the tangy flavor. For a homemade version, cashews can even be used to create a creamy, tangy base.
Vegan Chocolate Ganache
For a richer, more decadent topping, vegan chocolate ganache is a fantastic choice. Traditionally made with heavy cream, the vegan version substitutes full-fat coconut milk or a high-fat vegan cream alternative. The key is to use high-quality dark chocolate that is at least 70% cacao and to ensure the coconut milk is the firm, creamy part from a refrigerated can. This creates a smooth, glossy ganache that can be used as a pourable glaze or, when chilled, whipped into a thick frosting. Melting the ingredients gently over a double boiler is the best method to prevent scorching and ensure a silky texture.
Vegan Royal Icing
Often used for decorating cookies, traditional royal icing relies on egg whites. The vegan alternative uses aquafaba, the liquid from a can of chickpeas, which whips up into a meringue-like consistency. The aquafaba is mixed with powdered sugar and a touch of vanilla or other extracts to create a smooth icing that hardens as it dries. This option is perfect for intricate decorations where a firm, set frosting is required.
Unexpectedly Vegan Store-Bought Frosting Brands
Not everyone has time for homemade frosting. The good news is that many pre-made, store-bought frostings are accidentally vegan, meaning they don't contain dairy or other animal products, even if they aren't explicitly marketed as such. However, it is always vital to check the ingredient label for any hidden dairy products and to be aware of cross-contamination disclaimers.
How to Vet Store-Bought Frosting
- Check the Ingredients List: Look for red-flag ingredients like milk, cream, whey, casein, or butterfat. Many canned frostings rely on a base of sugar, water, and palm oil, which are naturally vegan.
- Look for Allergy Disclaimers: Most major brands will include a statement about processing on shared equipment with milk, which is a consideration for those with severe allergies but generally safe for ethical vegans.
- Recognize Common Vegan Brands: Several brands are known for their vegan options. PETA lists several Betty Crocker and Duncan Hines flavors as dairy-free, but it's important to verify current ingredient lists as recipes can change. Miss Jones Organic is a brand that actively labels many of its frostings as vegan.
Comparison of Vegan Frostings
| Frosting Type | Ingredients | Texture | Best For | Store-Bought Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Buttercream | Vegan butter, powdered sugar, non-dairy milk | Light, fluffy, sweet | Layer cakes, cupcakes, piping | Many brands offer accidentally vegan varieties (e.g., Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines) |
| Cream Cheese Frosting | Vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, powdered sugar | Tangy, rich, spreadable | Carrot cake, red velvet, cinnamon rolls | Limited options; most will be homemade |
| Chocolate Ganache | Dark chocolate, full-fat coconut milk or vegan cream | Rich, dense, glossy or whipped | Drips, glazes, rich chocolate cakes | Rare to find pre-made; best homemade |
| Royal Icing | Aquafaba, powdered sugar, extract | Hardens completely, smooth | Decorating cookies, intricate designs | Requires homemade for vegan version |
| Whipped Coconut Cream | Full-fat coconut milk (chilled) | Light, airy, delicate | Fruit tarts, topping for hot cocoa | Can be made at home or bought pre-whipped |
Conclusion
From creamy, classic buttercream to rich chocolate ganache and tangy cream cheese icing, a wide array of delicious vegan frostings are available for home bakers and those in need of a quick store-bought solution. With the right ingredients and knowledge of what to look for, adapting to a plant-based diet doesn't mean sacrificing the joy of a perfectly frosted cake. The growing availability of plant-based products has made it easier than ever to create or find a delicious, dairy-free frosting for any occasion. For more delicious vegan recipes, consider visiting Loving It Vegan, a great resource for plant-based baking ideas.
Hidden Ingredients in Frosting
Beyond the obvious culprits like milk and butter, certain ingredients can make a frosting non-vegan:
- Whey and Casein: These milk protein derivatives are often found in processed foods and should be avoided.
- Gelatin: Derived from animal collagen, gelatin is a common thickening agent and is not vegan.
- Certain Sugars: In the US, some white sugar is processed using bone char. Organic or explicitly labeled vegan sugars are safe.
- Lard: While less common in modern frostings, some older or traditional recipes may use animal-based fats like lard.
By being mindful of these ingredients, you can ensure your dessert is completely dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
