The Chocolate Den e-magazine The Chocolate Den e-magazine July/September 2014 | Page 11

Swiss Meringue Buttercream This icing may be used as an alternative to butter icing/ buttercream. It is however far nicer than the usual standard icing. It is much lighter in texture as well as not as sweet. You can colour and flavour it the same way you would a traditional buttercream. The only disadvantage is that you need to use it within 4 days of making it. It takes slightly more effort to make but is well worth it. Swiss meringue Buttercream Ingredients 4 x large egg whites 250g castor sugar 250g unsalted butter Vanilla extract 1. Place egg whites and sugar in the top of a double boiler with simmering water underneath. 2. Stir while heating to prevent egg whites from cooking. 3. Once sugar has dissolved remove bowl from heat and whisk meringue to full volume. 4. Allow to cool for 5 minutes. 5. Add softened butter and whisk for up to 10 minutes. 6. Beat until mixture is light and fluffy. Icing may be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days before using. Angela Day Buttermilk Cupcakes Ingredients 125g softened butter 250ml castor sugar 3 eggs 7 ml vanilla essence 500ml flour 7 ml baking powder 2ml bicarbonate of soda pinch of salt 250 ml buttermilk 1. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 2. Add one egg at a time and beat well after each addition 3. Add vanilla essence 4. Add sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternating with the buttermilk. 5. Spoon into muffin cups(18) 6. Bake at 180c for 15-20 minutes Egg whites and icing sugar Whisk meringue to full volume Add softened butter