When to Use Each & Why
When it comes to cake decorating, one of the biggest decisions bakers face is whether to use fondant or buttercream. Both have their advantages and are suited for different styles and occasions. In this guide, we’ll compare the two, helping you decide which option is best for your next baking project.
What is Buttercream?
Buttercream is a soft, creamy frosting made primarily from butter (or shortening), icing sugar, and flavourings. It can be easily piped, spread, and flavoured, making it a versatile choice for cakes and cupcakes.
Pros of Buttercream:
✔ Delicious Flavour – Rich, creamy, and easily customizable with different flavours.
✔ Easy to Work With – Spreads smoothly and is perfect for piping decorations.
✔ Light and Soft – Creates a melt-in-the-mouth texture that many prefer.
✔ Quick to Make & Apply – Ideal for last-minute decorating and casual cakes.
✔ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, cost-effective ingredients.
Cons of Buttercream:
✖ Less Durable – Can melt in warm temperatures, making it tricky for outdoor events.
✖ Less Polished Appearance – While it can be smoothed, it doesn’t offer the flawless finish of fondant.
✖ Limited Structural Support – Not ideal for creating intricate 3D decorations.
What is Fondant?
Fondant is a sugar-based dough that is rolled out and draped over cakes for a smooth, polished finish. It can also be moulded into decorations such as flowers, figurines, and bows.
Pros of Fondant:
✔ Sleek, Professional Finish – Provides a smooth, flawless surface perfect for wedding and novelty cakes.
✔ Long-Lasting Stability – Doesn’t melt like buttercream, making it ideal for warm environments.
✔ Great for Sculpting & Decorations – Holds its shape well for intricate designs.
✔ Seals in Freshness – Helps preserve moisture inside the cake.
Cons of Fondant:
✖ Less Popular Taste – Some people find fondant too sweet or chewy.
✖ Requires More Skill – Rolling, covering, and smoothing fondant takes practice.
✖ More Time-Consuming – Often requires additional steps, such as kneading and rolling.
✖ More Expensive – Costs more than buttercream due to specialized ingredients.
When to Use Buttercream vs. Fondant
Choosing between buttercream and fondant depends on the occasion, design, and personal preference.
|
Scenario |
Best Choice |
|
Casual cakes and cupcakes |
Buttercream – easy to spread and pipe |
|
Wedding and formal cakes |
Fondant – smooth, elegant, and long-lasting |
|
Hot weather events |
Fondant – resists melting better than buttercream |
|
Simple, quick decorating |
Buttercream – easy to work with and requires less prep |
|
Elaborate designs & sculpted cakes |
Fondant – provides structure for 3D elements |
|
Rich flavour preference |
Buttercream – more loved for its taste |
Can You Use Both?
Yes! Many decorators use a combination of both for the best of both worlds. For example:
- Covering a cake in fondant while using buttercream underneath for flavour.
- Decorating with fondant accents on a buttercream-covered cake.
- Using buttercream for texture and fondant for structured details.
Both fondant and buttercream have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your needs. If you’re looking for an elegant, polished look, fondant is your go-to. If flavour and simplicity are your priorities, buttercream is the way to go. Experiment with both and see what works best for your style!
Do you prefer buttercream or fondant?