Frosting is primarily used to coat or decorate baked goods, most commonly cakes.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Coating: Frosting provides a sweet, often creamy, outer layer to cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and other baked goods. This coating can improve the flavor and texture of the product. It also helps to retain moisture.
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Decoration: Frosting is a key element in decorating baked goods. It can be piped into intricate designs, spread smoothly for a clean look, or used as a base for other decorations like sprinkles, candies, or edible images.
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Filling: Frosting can also be used as a filling between layers of cakes, adding moisture and flavor.
In summary, frosting's primary functions are to enhance the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of baked goods through coating, decorating, and filling.