Last Updated on January 9, 2021
How long can a buttercream cake sit out? Will buttercream melt if left out at room temperature? Does buttercream need to be refrigerated? If you are wondering the answers to these questions, I highly suggest you keep reading this article.
Buttercream Frosting
It is made with egg white and butter. Moreover, it works best at room temperature. Butter starts to separate at temperatures between 88°F to 98°F. However, the cake can slide off that cake if the fat separates from the whey on a hot day.
On the other hand, buttercream made with shortening withstands heat better with a melting point of approximately 106°F. That is why buttercream with shortening is the best choice for cake decorating. Likewise, buttercream frosting with small milk quantities is okay to sit out at room temperature for two to three days.
To prepare the buttercream frosting in advance:
- Please put it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three to four days.
- Blend it up with an electric mixer or whisk before using.
- Place it at room temperature before serving it.
In addition to that, you can keep the cake with buttercream frosting for longer than a day in the refrigerator.
Kinds Of Buttercream Cake Frosting
Buttercream can be thick and sweet, while others have rich flavors and a smooth texture similar to whipped cream. It is the usual cake frosting, and it has plenty of variations.
Basic Buttercream
This kind of buttercream is usually used on children’s cakes since it is the easiest to make with a few ingredients. Likewise, it a combination of confectioner’ sugar flavoring and shortening or butter. Besides, a cake iced with a basic buttercream can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator without complications.
Also, the buttercream frosting can be piped into intricate defined designs and tinted with any color. Make sure to take care and not keep this kind of cake unrefrigerated in warm weather, especially if the filling is delicate or perishable like mousse.
Meringue Buttercream
It is not too sweet, but it takes a bit of practice to master this kind of buttercream. Moreover, it needs sugar boiled to a softball to make a smooth, stable texture and beaten egg whites. Likewise, it can be colored in less bright shades and flavored than basic buttercream. In addition to that, this frosting should be placed in the refrigerator. Also, it needs extra care to prevent any strong or unpleasant odors in the refrigerator.
Ensure to bring back the cake to room temperature when serving since the frosting can be hard when cold. Because of this, the frosting will retain its flavor. However, cakes with meringue buttercream will eventually slip or melt if left out during a hot day, so it is best to decide on a different choice of desserts for outdoor occasions like summer weddings.
Find buttercream recipes here: Amazing Kittencal Chocolate Buttercream Frosting, Delicious Mocha Buttercream Frosting Martha Stewart
How Long Can A Buttercream Cake Sit Out?
It takes two to three days for buttercream cake to sit out as long as it is covered properly in a dry and cool place. But wait, around two to three days, wouldn’t that spoil it? The answer is no since the minimal quantity of cream and an abundant amount of fat keep it from spoiling.
However, it will need to be placed in the refrigerator if your buttercream recipe is made with all butter. It is because an all-butter recipe may melt off your buttercream cake once it reaches room temperature.
Essentially, recipes created with butter will melt at a lower temperature than baked goods made with shortening. Likewise, the melting point of butter is higher than the ordinary room temperature. Also, unless the room is hot, buttercream frosting will not melt at room temperature. However, buttercream made with cream cheese is not recommended to sit out and should be stored in the fridge.
On the contrary, buttercream with shortening and butter can sit out at a temperature for up to two days. If this was the case, put it in a cake carrier and cover it with cling wrap to avoid the buttercream from crusting. But, if you are making a pure white buttercream with just shortening and no butter, it can sit out for up to two days at room temperature.
Find out if You Can Freeze Buttercream Covered Cakes
How Long Does Buttercream Last?
May it be packaged or canned frosting after opening, refrigerate it immediately in a plastic container or covered glass to maximize its shelf life. Likewise, buttercream frosting that has been used up many times should be refrigerated. Doing this will make it last for around three to four weeks.
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Zarah is an experienced pastry chef whose creations have delighted countless customers. With a passion for baking, Zarah has developed a unique style that combines classic techniques with modern flavors. Her desserts are consistently crafted with the finest ingredients, and her attention to detail is evident in the stunning and delectable results. Zarah has a wealth of experience in the pastry kitchen, and loves to share her knowledge with others. Whether it is teaching a class or creating a custom cake for a special occasion, Zarah is committed to making sure every customer is satisfied.
