Cream-Based Frosting Deconstructed

• Cream-based frosting generally incorporates heavy or light cream; butter or shortening; powdered sugar; an extract such as vanilla or almond; and occasionally meringue powder for stabilizing. Whipped cream frosting, cream cheese frosting, ganache and buttercream frostings that incorporate heavy or light cream don't hold up well in high temperatures or humidity, although with an added stabilizer, they will fare better without refrigeration for a short time. However, buttercream frostings that replace butter with shortening may remain at room temperature for two to three weeks when stored in an airtight container. Cakes frosted with cream-based frostings should be refrigerated to keep them free of bacterial growth.

Dairy Product Dating

• All dairy products are stamped with dates to advise retailers how long they may be displayed for purchase, and to also advise patrons of their shelf life for best quality. When a dairy product such as cream exceeds the suggested date it may still be safe to consume but will not be of its best quality. According to the USDA, cream may be refrigerated for up to 10 days. Check the “sell by” date on the package to determine the time allotted for home storage. “Best before” dates are the last date by which the product should be used.

Adding a Stabilizer

• Stabilizers such as bloomed gelatin added to real whipped cream frostings supply lasting volume for cakes that may need to remain at room temperature for up to two hours. Blooming gelatin involves sprinkling powdered gelatin into a liquid and allowing it to sit for approximately 5 minutes. The gelatin then softens and dissolves evenly when heated. However, cakes that are frosted with stabilized cream still require refrigeration to avoid bacterial contamination. The act of including a stabilizer in a cream-based frosting does not increase the shelf life of the frosting, but rather keeps the frosting from wilting when refrigerated for hours or even days before an event. Cakes frosted with stabilized cream-based frosting taste best when served cool and firm.

Maintaining Frosting Freshness

• Cream-based frosting can remain at room temperature for up to two hours before bacteria begin to multiply. Once a cake has been frosted and two hours have passed, the cake should be refrigerated in an airtight container. Cream should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours; of course, then, the same applies for cream-based frostings. To maintain product integrity, ensure the cream container has been sealed properly and never opened prior to purchase. As well, visit the dairy case last when shopping to prevent the cream from becoming warm prior to refrigeration.