Yes, you can absolutely frost a cake with store-bought frosting. In fact, using premade frosting from the grocery store is a quick and easy way to frost a cake without having to make frosting from scratch.
What types of store-bought frosting can be used?
There are several common types of store-bought frosting that work well for cake frosting:
- Canned frosting – Canned frosting, often sold under brands like Betty Crocker and Duncan Hines, is one of the most popular and readily available types of store-bought frosting. It comes ready-to-spread straight from the container.
- Tub frosting – Frosting tubs from brands like Pillsbury and Wilton are another great option for frosting cakes. Tub frosting is dense and spreadable.
- Ready-to-use decorating icing – This type of frosting comes in a pouch or squeezable tube and is made for decorating. While thinner than traditional frosting, it can be used to frost an entire cake.
- Whipped frosting – Whipped frosting has a light and fluffy texture. Brands like Cool Whip sell whipped frosting in containers for frosting cakes.
All of these store-bought styles can be used for frosting cakes. The frosting just needs to be spread evenly across the cake.
Benefits of using store-bought vs. homemade frosting
There are a few advantages to using store-bought rather than homemade frosting on cakes:
- Convenience – Premade frosting eliminates the work of having to make frosting from scratch. It saves a lot of time and effort.
- Consistent results – Store-bought frosting will taste the same every time. Homemade frosting can vary batch to batch.
- Wide variety – Stores offer many flavors and styles of frosting that would be difficult to make at home.
- Longer shelf life – An unopened tub or can of frosting will last for months in the pantry. Homemade frosting has a shorter shelf life.
The main downside is that premade frosting may have more preservatives and ingredients than homemade. But for convenience and reliability, it can be the better choice for many home bakers.
Tips for frosting a cake with store-bought frosting
Follow these tips for getting the best results frosting a cake with store-bought frosting:
- Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting so the frosting doesn’t melt.
- Use a serrated knife to trim off any domed tops for a flat surface to frost.
- Place the first cake layer on a cake turntable or serving plate.
- Before frosting, brush loose crumbs off the top.
- Scoop some frosting onto the middle of the cake and spread evenly outward using an icing spatula.
- Add the second layer and repeat the frosting process.
- For the sides, hold the spatula vertically and apply frosting around the cake.
- Smooth the frosting by running an icing smoother around the sides.
- Decorate the cake with extra frosting, sprinkles, or other decorations as desired.
Stir the frosting well before using to prevent separation and for the best spreadability. If the frosting seems too stiff, briefly microwaving it can soften it to a spreadable consistency.
How much frosting do you need?
For one 9-inch two-layer cake, you will need:
- 1 can or tub (16 ounces) of frosting for a thinner layer
- 2 cans or tubs (32 ounces) for a thicker layer
More frosting may be needed if using a larger cake, adding more layers, or wanting very thick frosting. Having extra frosting is better than running short. Leftover frosting can be used on cupcakes.
Amount of frosting needed based on cake size
| Cake Size | Frosting Needed (2 layers) |
|---|---|
| 6-inch | 1/2 to 1 can (8-16 ounces) |
| 8-inch | 1 can (16 ounces) |
| 9-inch | 1-2 cans (16-32 ounces) |
| 10-inch | 2-3 cans (32-48 ounces) |
| 12-inch | 3-4 cans (48-64 ounces) |
| 14-inch | 4-5 cans (64-80 ounces) |
Frosting tips and techniques
Use these frosting tips and techniques for beautifully frosted cakes with store-bought frosting:
Smooth Frosting
For an elegant smooth frosting finish:
- Let the crumb coat chill in the fridge 30 minutes before the final coat.
- Spoon the frosting onto the cake instead of spreading to avoid crumbs.
- Use an icing spatula and icing smoother for a seamless look.
- Run the smoother around the sides at different angles to get it perfectly smooth.
Decorative Frosting
For pretty decorative frosting:
- Pipe on frosting roses, flowers, beads, and borders with a piping bag.
- Create ombre effects by gently blending frosting colors.
- Add dimension with different frosting textures like buttercream and whipped.
- Top with sprinkles, candy pieces, coconut, or nuts before the frosting sets.
Correct Frosting Mistakes
If the frosting seems too runny or shows crumbs, quickly smooth over the imperfections by:
- Dipping the icing spatula in hot water and smoothing over the issue area.
- Adding more frosting on top to cover it up.
- For cracks or lines, filling them in with a dot of frosting and smoothing.
Minor frosting fixes are easy to cover up!
Storing and refrigerating cakes with store-bought frosting
Here are some tips for storing cakes frosted with store-bought frosting:
- Frosted cakes using canned, tub, or whipped frosting can be stored at room temperature covered for up to 2 days.
- If the cake uses whipped cream or egg-based buttercream frosting, it must be refrigerated.
- Refrigerate any frosted cake if the room is warm above 76°F.
- Dome shaped cake covers help protect the frosting.
- Avoid sliding the cake as this can smear the frosting.
- Let refrigerated cakes come to room temperature before serving to allow the frosting to soften.
Properly stored, a cake frosted with store-bought frosting will stay fresh and delicious for your occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between buttercream and whipped frosting?
Buttercream is made by creaming butter with powdered sugar. It has a smooth, silky texture. Whipped frosting contains cream and is lighter and fluffier with air whipped into it.
Can you use cream cheese frosting on a cake?
Yes, cream cheese frosting is delicious on cakes. Look for ready-to-use cream cheese frosting sold in tubs and cans. Allow cakes frosted with cream cheese frosting to refrigerate for the best flavor.
How long does it take to frost a cake?
It takes about 20-30 minutes to properly frost the entire cake, including crumb coating and smoothing the frosting. More time may be needed for detailed decorating.
Should you freeze cake layers before frosting?
Freezing cake layers before frosting can help dense cakes hold their shape better when cut. However, freezing is not mandatory. Freshly baked cakes can be frosted without freezing.
Can you use frosting that has been frozen?
Yes, store-bought frosting that has been previously frozen can still be used to frost cakes. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. Whip it briefly to restore a smooth consistency.
Conclusion
Using store-bought frosting to decorate cakes is an easy process that yields delicious results. With so many convenient canned, tub, and ready-to-use frosting products available, anyone can frost spectacular cakes. Follow the tips for applying frosting smoothly and creatively decorating. Store-bought frosting makes cake decorating simple.
