Yes, you can use cream cheese frosting to decorate a cake. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Cream cheese frosting is delicious and adds a tangy sweetness that complements many cake flavors, like red velvet, carrot cake, and spice cake. It's suitable for frosting the inside and outside of cakes, particularly simpler, two-layer cakes.
Here's a breakdown of factors to consider:
- Stability: Cream cheese frosting is generally softer and less stable than other frostings like buttercream. It tends to soften at room temperature.
- Decoration: While you can use cream cheese frosting for basic decorations, it might not hold intricate designs or stand up well for tall, elaborate cakes. For complex decorations requiring firm hold, consider using a stabilized cream cheese frosting recipe or a different frosting altogether.
- Refrigeration: Due to its softness, cream cheese frosting typically requires refrigeration to maintain its shape and prevent spoilage. Keep frosted cakes refrigerated until shortly before serving.
- Recipe Variations: Some recipes call for stabilizers like gelatin or cornstarch to improve the frosting's structure. Explore these options if you need a firmer frosting for more elaborate decorations.
In summary: Cream cheese frosting is a great option for decorating cakes, especially for simpler designs and when refrigeration is possible. Just be mindful of its softness and stability compared to other frosting types.
