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Seven-Minute Frosting

Made with beaten egg whites, this frosting is similar to meringue, but is more stable and sturdy enough for piping. And, like meringue, it also takes well to browning with a small kitchen torch. Use immediately, as the frosting will harden quickly (have your piping bag ready).

Recipe information

  • Yield

    makes about 8 cups

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons sugar
2/3 cup water
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
6 large egg whites, room temperature

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Combine 1 1/2 cups sugar with the water and corn syrup in a small saucepan; clip a candy thermometer to side of pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves. Continue boiling, without stirring, until syrup reaches 230°F.

    Step 2

    Meanwhile, in the bowl of a standing electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whisk egg whites on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. With mixer running, add remaining 2 tablespoons sugar, beating to combine.

    Step 3

    As soon as sugar syrup reaches 230°F, remove from heat. With mixer on medium-low speed, pour syrup down side of bowl in a slow, steady stream. Raise speed to medium-high; whisk until mixture is completely cool (test by touching the bottom of the bowl) and stiff (but not dry) peaks form, about 7 minutes. Use immediately.

  2. COCONUT VARIATION

    Step 4

    Add 1/2 teaspoon pure coconut extract at the end of step 3, whisking to combine.

  3. COFFEE VARIATION

    Step 5

    Add 2 tablespoons pure coffee extract (see Sources, page 342) at the end of step 3, whisking to combine.

Martha Stewart's Cupcakes
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