17 Swiss Meringue Buttercream Recipe Serious Eats Get Cooking And Enjoy!

Published on: Mar 22, 2024

Swiss meringue buttercream is a staple in the world of baking, and for good reason. This rich and velvety smooth frosting is made by whipping together egg whites, sugar, and butter, resulting in a light and fluffy texture that is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. If you're looking to elevate your baking game and impress your friends and family, this Swiss meringue buttercream recipe from Serious Eats is a must-try. Not only is it easy to make, but it also yields delicious and professional-looking results.

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Swiss Meringue Buttercream

Main Ingredients: Large Egg Whites, Sugar, Unsalted Butter, Salt

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One of the best ways to elevate your beer can chicken recipe is by topping it with a delicious Swiss meringue buttercream. This creamy and airy frosting is made with egg whites, sugar, and butter, creating a light and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy chicken. To make this decadent topping, start by whisking together egg whites and sugar in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Once the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is hot, remove it from the heat and beat it until it forms stiff peaks. Slowly add in cubes of butter and continue to beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Finally, add in a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor. This delicious Swiss meringue buttercream is sure to take your beer can chicken to the next level.

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Best Swiss Meringue Buttercream, Easy SMBC Recipe,...

Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, White Granulated Sugar, Unsalted Butter

The Best Swiss Meringue Buttercream Recipe! - Sugar and Charm

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If you're looking for an easy Swiss meringue buttercream recipe, look no further. This best SMBC recipe is foolproof and requires only a few ingredients. Begin by whisking egg whites and sugar over simmering water until they are hot and the sugar is dissolved. Then, transfer the mixture to a stand mixer and beat it until it forms stiff peaks. Slowly add in cubes of softened butter and beat until the buttercream is smooth and creamy. For added flavor, you can also add in a pinch of salt and a splash of lemon juice. This easy SMBC recipe is perfect for topping your beer can chicken and will impress all of your guests.

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Chocolate Swiss Meringue Buttercream

Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Granulated Sugar, Unsalted Butter

Chocolate Swiss Meringue Buttercream ~Sweet & Savory

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If you're a fan of chocolate, then you'll love this twist on the classic Swiss meringue buttercream. This chocolate SMBC is made by adding in melted chocolate to the traditional recipe. Begin by melting your favorite chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Once the chocolate is melted, let it cool slightly before adding it to your beaten egg whites and sugar. Continue to beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can also add in a dash of cocoa powder for an extra rich chocolate flavor. This chocolate Swiss meringue buttercream is the perfect indulgent topping for your beer can chicken recipe.

What Makes Swiss Meringue Buttercream Different?

The Importance of Temperature

One of the key elements in making Swiss meringue buttercream is temperature. Unlike traditional buttercream, which involves simply beating butter and sugar together, this recipe requires heating the egg whites and sugar over a double boiler until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is crucial in order to achieve a smooth and stable frosting. If the sugar is not fully dissolved, it can create a gritty texture in the buttercream.

The Role of Butter

Butter is another important component in this recipe, and it's essential to use high-quality butter for the best results. The butter should be softened to room temperature before being added to the whipped egg whites and sugar. As the butter is beaten in, the mixture will thicken and become creamy. This step can take some time, but the end result is worth the effort. Unsalted butter is typically used, as it allows for more control over the final flavor of the buttercream.

Flavor Variations

While the classic Swiss meringue buttercream recipe calls for vanilla extract, there are endless flavor variations that can be incorporated. For a citrusy twist, try adding lemon or orange zest. For a rich and decadent flavor, a few tablespoons of cocoa powder can be added. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors.

Impress Your Guests

Not only does Swiss meringue buttercream have a smooth and silky texture, but it also has a professional and elegant look. The buttercream can be dyed with food coloring to match any color scheme and can be piped into various designs for a beautiful and eye-catching finish. Your guests will surely be impressed by your baking skills and will be asking for the recipe.

Ready to Try It Yourself?

Now that you know the ins and outs of Swiss meringue buttercream, it's time to give it a try. This recipe from Serious Eats is a great place to start, but don't be afraid to make it your own with different flavors and designs. With a little practice, you'll soon be a pro at making this delicious and versatile frosting. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to impress with this swiss meringue buttercream recipe.