Better Buttercream
Erica O'Brien
Class Preview
1:32
- In-depth Instruction; over 178 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Swiss Meringue Buttercream
28:32
Meet cake designer Erica O'Brien and preview the techniques you'll learn to make a better buttercream. Then get started with the classic Swiss meringue buttercream. Erica demonstrates each step of the process, then shares some sanity-saving tips to troubleshoot common problems.
Italian Meringue Buttercream
26:33
Prefer to make a more stable buttercream? Erica shares her techniques for whipping up pillowy Italian meringue. Learn how to perfect the timing needed to create the signature stiff peaks, then discover simple ways to achieve the perfect color so you can customize cakes for any occasion.
French Buttercream
15:38
Learn the secret to making a decadent French buttercream filling that will be the talk of the party! With Erica's guidance, you'll see how to achieve consistently silky, smooth results. Plus, find out which simple ingredients can add delightful flavors to your buttercream.
Flavoring
26:20
Gain confidence flavoring your icings and fillings. Erica offers in-depth instruction on infusing a variety of flavors into your buttercreams using liqueurs, juice, sweet treats, fresh fruits and more. In addition, you'll learn how to create a delicious jam, perfect for coloring and flavoring any type of buttercream.
Layering & Crumb Coating
25:47
Once you've made your buttercream, it's time to frost your cake! First, Erica shares a simple method for constructing custom-sized cake boards. Then, practice piping an icing dam and adding buttercream filling to achieve even cake layers. You'll also learn a trusty technique for applying a perfect crumb coat.
Creating a Clean Finish
21:17
See how to create a perfectly smooth buttercream finish on your cakes. Erica shares a handy tool that will ensure clean, straight sides. Plus, find out how to achieve a sharp top edge for professional-looking results!
Amazing Textures
33:30
Embellish your cakes with gorgeous textures that will wow partygoers. Watch and learn Erica's techniques for creating a variety of effects ranging from festive pinstripes to rustic finishes. You'll also learn how to add a little bling to your buttercream with amazing metallic looks.
Create the most delicious Swiss, Italian, and French buttercreams with step-by-step guidance from cake decorator Erica O’Brien. Start with how to make pillowy meringue as you whip up simple Swiss and dreamy Italian meringue buttercreams. Next, create a super-rich French buttercream that’s perfect as a filling. You’ll also discover the secrets for coloring your buttercream with confidence and creating mouthwatering flavors from everyday ingredients. Then, you’ll see how to level, tort, dam, fill, and crumb coat your cakes. With your cake prepared, Erica will teach you how to smooth buttercream, for flawless icing that creates beautiful sides and a super-sharp top edge. Plus, find out how to show off your cakes with a beautiful pinstripe buttercream technique, fun rustic textures, or gorgeous metallic finishes.
Erica O'Brien
Erica discovered cake decorating quite by accident in 1995 and quickly fell in love with the art. After moving to California in 2006, Erica began designing cakes full time and quickly gained national recognition. In 2011, she moved to Connecticut where her business, Erica O'Brien Cake Design, continues to grow. Today, Erica's designs have been featured in Brides Magazine, The Knot and many others as well as on many noteworthy blogs. She lives with her husband and two spunky, cake-loving daughters.
Bonus materials available after purchase