What is the Difference Between Frosting and Icing?

The main difference between frosting and icing lies in their texture and consistency. Here are the key differences:

• Frosting:
• Thick and fluffy.
• Made with a fat base, such as butter, cream cheese, or cream.
• Opaque and usually fluffy.
• Used to coat the outside (and often the inner layers) of a cake.
• Can also be used as a cake "filling" between cake layers.
• Popular types include American buttercream frosting and cream cheese frosting.
• Icing:
• Thinner and glossier than frosting.
• Made with powdered sugar and liquid, such as water, milk, or juice.
• Can be drizzled or spread.
• More shine and a smoother consistency than frosting.
• Not used as a cake "filling".
• Icings set quickly and stiffen as they dry.

In summary, frosting is thicker and fluffier, while icing is thinner and glossier. Frosting is typically used to coat cakes, both on the outside and between layers, whereas icing is more suitable for drizzling or spreading on pastries and cakes.

Comparative Table: Frosting vs Icing

Frosting and icing are both used to add flavor and texture to baked goods, but they have different consistencies and uses. Here is a table comparing the differences between frosting and icing:

Frosting is thick and fluffy, making it ideal for coating the outside and inner layers of cakes and decorating cupcakes. It is made from butter, sugar, and cream, and can be flavored and colored as desired. On the other hand, icing is thinner and glossier than frosting, making it suitable for glazing or detailed decorating. It is made from sugar, water, and cornstarch, and sets quickly and stiffens as it dries.