How to Soften Refrigerated Buttercream Frosting?

There are several methods of how to soften refrigerated buttercream frosting. Most people will store their leftover buttercream in their fridge to ensure freshness and quality. However, buttercream frosting is best served at room temperature.

If you have your buttercream in the fridge, you will want to let it soften before using it to decorate. You will learn different ways on how to soften refrigerated buttercream frosting, depending on what is most convenient for your needs.

HOW TO SOFTEN REFRIGERATED BUTTERCREAM FROSTING: THE PROCESS

1

To soften your buttercream in the microwave, use a low power setting and don’t microwave it for more than fifteen seconds at a time, depending on the amount of buttercream you have.

MICROWAVE METHOD

2

If you are not in a hurry, you can set out your buttercream frosting in your kitchen at room temperature. You can let the frosting rest for thirty to forty-five minutes. This allows the frosting to gradually reach the right temperature without the worry of it melting.

REST AT ROOM TEMPERATURE

3

A quick way to soften your buttercream is to add some clear corn syrup. This will help loosen your buttercream if it has become stiff. Add just a few drops at a time and mix until the buttercream has achieved a desirable texture.

ADD CORN SYRUP

4

Another efficient way to soften your buttercream is with a warm water bath. Simply place the buttercream in a metal bowl above a pot of either boiling or warm water. Leave the bowl of frosting above the water until it has reached room temperature, stirring occasionally to make sure the frosting is evenly heated.

WATER BATH

5

You may also soften your buttercream frosting using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment. Allow your buttercream to sit out for a few minutes and then turn your mixer on medium speed and beat the frosting for a couple of minutes. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and if needed beat the frosting for longer.

WHISK FROSTING

6

If you have a small amount of buttercream you are trying to soften you can put it into a piping bag and use the warmth from your hands to soften it. Squeeze the bag of frosting with your hands until you feel it has reached your desired consistency. 

USING YOUR HANDS

Softening your buttercream is important before using it. Luckily, there are many simple ways to do it that will make your buttercream creamy again. If you tried any of these methods for softening buttercream frosting, please share your experience making it.

How to Soften Refrigerated Buttercream Frosting?