Gluten Free Traditional Decorators' Frosting

The following is an excerpt from my feature article The Cupcake Craze in the Fall 2009 issue of Delight Gluten Free Magazine:

Decorators’ frosting is a must for piping designs on special occasion cakes. Even a simple drop flower and leaf can make a cupcake seem extra special.

If you are interested in jazzing up your cupcakes try adding color and texture. White frostings can be customized by adding concentrated gel icing colors. Wilton brand icing colors are made to produce deeper, richer color by adding just a small amount. Most importantly, gel colors will not water down your frosting like liquid food colors do. When watered down frosting cannot hold its shape for piped designs. The best part is that all of Wilton’s icing colors, decorating sugars, and decorative sprinkles are gluten free.

Check out http://www.wilton.com if you are interested in taking Wilton method cake decorating classes in your area; here you will find class locations, cake decorating tips, and supplies. After taking a class you will be amazed at the unique signature you can add to your cupcakes.

Traditional Decorators’ Frosting (holds its shape for piped designs)

1-1/3 cups shortening
½ cup water
2 lbs. powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tsp vanilla

Beat all items together with a hand mixer in a very large bowl until light and fluffy (about 8 minutes). Keep tightly covered at room temperature until ready to use. May be tinted with gel icing colors and or piped with cake decorating tips and pastry bags onto completly cooled cupcakes and cakes.

*Recipe adapted from Jane’s Cakes & Chocolates

Enjoy!