How to Transform Canned Frosting into a Homemade-Tasting Delight

Using shortcuts is nothing to be ashamed of, especially when they help you create a homemade cake or cupcake quickly. Canned frosting is a time-saver, but we all know that homemade frosting always has that extra special flavor. Here's how you can make your frosting taste just as good as if you made it from scratch.

You don't need to start from scratch to make frosting from a can taste like it's homemade. With a few simple tweaks, you can elevate a basic store-bought frosting into something truly special. Whether you're adjusting its flavor or texture, there are many easy ways to take canned frosting to the next level—no one will ever guess it started in a can. Here's how to do it.

How to Make Store-Bought Frosting Taste Like It's Homemade

Whisk it up!

The key to making frosting taste homemade is its light, airy, and smooth texture. Canned frosting tends to be a bit thick, but there's an easy fix. Simply transfer your canned frosting into a large mixing bowl and use a hand mixer, or place it in the bowl of a stand mixer, and whip it up. This step will introduce air into the frosting, giving it a much fluffier, homemade-like consistency without adding anything else.

Stir in some dairy.

For a truly next-level frosting, gently fold in some freshly whipped cream (store-bought whipped cream will liquefy, so make sure to whip it yourself) for an incredibly light and delicate texture. If you're craving a bit of tang and richness, incorporate some softened cream cheese. For a homemade buttercream frosting vibe, whip in a few tablespoons of softened butter. These additions not only improve the texture but also help tone down the overly sweet flavor of canned frosting.

Raid your pantry for flavor enhancers.

Other creamy ingredients that can elevate canned frosting include peanut butter (or any nut butter), fruit preserves, Nutella, marshmallow fluff, cookie butter, or citrus curd. You'll need about ½ to 1 cup for one 16-ounce container of frosting. Mix in any of these to taste, and add a pinch of salt to intensify their flavors. For a quicker, more concentrated flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon or two of flavored extracts (vanilla, almond, lemon, peppermint, etc.) or syrups (caramel, mocha, coconut, etc.). Feeling adventurous? Add a splash of alcohol, like Kahlua, Grand Marnier, Amaretto, or Limoncello. For a jolt of caffeine, mix in a tablespoon or two of instant espresso powder or strong brewed coffee.

Add some crunch.

If you're looking to add more texture and flavor, try mixing in some crunchy ingredients. To prevent the frosting from becoming too thick or hard to spread, whip it first, then carefully fold in your chosen mix-ins. For a 16-ounce tub of frosting, about ½ to 1 cup of crunchy additions will work. Toasted nuts, coconut flakes, chocolate chips, chunks of halvah, or toffee all bring a delightful twist. For a fruity kick, stir in some chopped canned pineapple or fresh berries. A handful of sprinkles can add a pop of color, and crumbled candy, pretzels, or even potato chips can introduce an exciting salty-sweet contrast. The possibilities are endless!

The Final Word

Here's the deal — just because you're using store-bought frosting doesn't mean your creation will taste like it. With a little care and a dash of creativity, you can take a simple jar of vanilla or chocolate frosting and transform it into a bakery-quality treat. And the best part? No one will ever know about your clever shortcut.