17 Italian Meringue Buttercream Recipe Smitten Kitchen Unleash Your Inner Chef!

Making the Meringue

Ingredients

To make this Italian meringue buttercream, you will need egg whites, sugar, and water. These simple ingredients are key to creating a stable and smooth meringue. It is important to use fresh egg whites and make sure they are at room temperature before starting. The sugar and water will be cooked together to create a syrup that will be added to the egg whites, so it is important to have a candy thermometer on hand to ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature.

Technique

The process of making the meringue can be intimidating, but with a few tips and tricks, it can be easily mastered. One key tip is to make sure your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of any grease. Any residue can prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly. Start by whipping the egg whites on low speed until they become foamy, then gradually increase the speed as you add in the sugar. Once the egg whites reach soft peaks, it's time to add in the hot sugar syrup. Slowly pour the syrup into the egg whites while the mixer is running, and continue to whip until the meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form.

Creating the Buttercream

Ingredients

The next step is to add in the butter to create a creamy and rich buttercream. It is important to use unsalted butter that is at room temperature. This will ensure that the butter blends smoothly into the meringue. You can also add in any flavorings or extracts at this point to customize the buttercream to your liking.

Technique

Slowly add in small cubes of butter to the meringue while the mixer is running on low speed. It is important to add in the butter gradually to prevent the buttercream from curdling. Once all the butter is incorporated, continue to whip the buttercream on medium-high speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This may take a few minutes, but the end result will be worth it.

Using and Storing the Buttercream

Uses

Italian meringue buttercream is a versatile frosting that can be used in a variety of ways. It is perfect for frosting cakes and cupcakes, filling macarons or cream puffs, and even as a base for ice cream. Its light and airy texture make it a crowd-pleaser and a favorite among bakers.

Storage

This buttercream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature and re-whip it to bring back its creamy texture. In conclusion, with this Italian meringue buttercream recipe from Smitten Kitchen, you can easily create a professional-quality frosting that will elevate your desserts to the next level. Don't be intimidated by the process, follow these tips and techniques and you'll have a delicious and versatile buttercream that will impress everyone. So go ahead and try it out for your next baking project!