What to do with Leftover Frosting
Do you find yourself with a small mountain of leftover frosting every time you bake? Whether it’s store-bought frosting, homemade buttercream, or cream cheese frosting, there’s always that little bit that didn’t make it onto your cake or cupcakes. Instead of letting it go to waste, there are countless ways to put that extra frosting to good use and satisfy your sweet tooth in the process.
Sometimes I make homemade frosting, but I’m not going to lie, sometimes I buy store-bought frosting because it’s on sale or I just want to buy it already made because I am too busy to make it. Okay, I get that frosting isn’t that hard to make from scratch, but sometimes you gotta cut corners wherever you can!
If you store your unused frosting in an airtight container in the fridge, most frosting will last a few weeks which means ample opportunity to use it on EVERYTHING.
And look, there’s no shame in dipping a spoon in the frosting container and eating it just like that every now and again. I mean, one or two big spoonfuls of that leftover icing won’t hurt, right?
What’s your favorite type of icing? Leftover buttercream frosting, or leftover cream cheese frosting? My preference is either, as long as it’s chocolate flavored..
Anyways, let’s get into the reason you are here.
What to do with Leftover Frosting
1. Frosting-Filled Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies are a classic treat, and when filled with leftover frosting, they become a whole new dessert. Roll out your sugar cookie dough, bake it to golden brown perfection, and then sandwich two cookies together with a generous dollop of frosting in the middle. Sprinkle with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
2. Frosting-Covered Chocolate Chip Cookies
Take your favorite chocolate chip cookies to the next level by slathering them with leftover frosting and drizzling them with melted chocolate. Place them on parchment paper to let the chocolate harden for an indulgent treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
3. Frosting-Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls
When you have extra frosting, cinnamon rolls become an even more decadent breakfast treat. Roll out your cinnamon roll dough, spread a layer of frosting on it, then roll it up and bake as usual. Top with more frosting while they’re still warm for a gooey, delicious treat.
4. Graham Cracker Sandwiches
Graham crackers make a perfect vessel for leftover frosting. Spread frosting between two graham cracker sheets and refrigerate until firm. Experiment with different flavors of frosting and add-ins like chocolate chips or fruit for variety.
5. Frosting-Topped Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit is a delightful contrast to sweet frosting. Dip strawberries, banana slices, or apple wedges in leftover frosting for a fruity and satisfying treat. You can even freeze them for a refreshing dessert on a hot day.
6. Leftover Frosting Cookies
Make a batch of cookies using your favorite cookie dough recipe, and when they come out of the oven, add a dollop of leftover frosting on top. The residual heat will cause the frosting to melt slightly, creating a deliciously gooey center.
7. Cake Balls
Crumble up any leftover cake and mix it with cream cheese frosting to create cake balls. Roll them into bite-sized treats and dip them in melted chocolate or roll them in powdered sugar for a delectable dessert.
8. Frosting-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are already sweet, but a dollop of frosting takes them to another level. Simply bake your sweet potatoes until they’re soft and caramelized, then top with a generous scoop of frosting.
9. Frosting-Covered Graham Cracker Sandwiches
Similar to graham cracker sandwiches, you can also cover them entirely with frosting for a sweet and crunchy treat. Sprinkle some cinnamon or cocoa powder on top for extra flavor.
10. Ice-Cream Topping
Melt your leftover frosting and use it as a delicious ice-cream topping. It will harden as it cools, creating a sweet and crunchy shell on your favorite ice cream flavor.
11. Frosting-Filled Vanilla Wafers
Sandwich frosting between two vanilla wafers to create bite-sized treats that are perfect for snacking. You can even dip them in melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
12. Frosting Layer Cake
When you have a small amount of frosting left, consider making a mini layer cake. Bake two small cake layers and use the leftover frosting to create a delicious filling. Perfect for an impromptu celebration or a special dessert the next day.
13. Frosting-Filled Cupcakes
If you have more frosting than cupcakes, don’t worry! Slice the tops off your cupcakes, add a dollop of frosting, and then replace the tops for a frosting-filled surprise in every bite. Or, of course you can always make another batch of cupcakes to use the rest of the frosting.
14. Frosting-Stuffed Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Dip pretzel rods in melted chocolate, let them cool slightly, and then pipe leftover frosting onto them. Sprinkle with your favorite toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles for a delightful mix of sweet and salty.
15. Peanut Butter and Frosting Sandwiches
Combine peanut butter and leftover frosting for a sweet and creamy filling. Spread it between two slices of bread for an unconventional yet delicious sandwich.
16. Frosting-Stuffed Carrot Cake
Carrot cake pairs wonderfully with cream cheese frosting. Cut your carrot cake into squares, hollow out the center, and fill it with cream cheese frosting for a delightful twist on a classic.
17. Frosting-Covered Brownies
Add an extra layer of decadence to your brownies by spreading leftover frosting on top. This is a fantastic way to use up a surplus of frosting and create an ultra-rich chocolate treat.
18. Frosting-Filled Fruit Tarts
Create mini fruit tarts by filling pre-made tart shells with leftover frosting and topping them with fresh fruit. The tangy cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with a variety of fruits.
19. Frosting Dipped Graham Crackers
Dip graham crackers in melted chocolate, let them cool slightly, and then coat them with leftover frosting. This sweet and crunchy combination is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
20. Frosting-Topped Sweet Treats
Use your leftover frosting as a topping for various desserts like brownie sundaes, cheesecakes, or even as a drizzle on top of your favorite pie. It’s an excellent choice for adding an extra layer of sweetness to any dessert.
21. Frosting-Filled Cake Pops
Transform your leftover cake and frosting into cake pops. Roll the mixture into small balls, insert a stick, and dip them in melted chocolate or coat them with colorful sprinkles.
22. Frosting-Covered Cookie Dough Bites
Mix your leftover frosting into edible cookie dough for an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess. Roll the dough into bite-sized balls and enjoy these sweet bites straight from the freezer.
23. Frosting as a Dip for Fresh Fruit
Rather than using your extra frosting as a topping, a good use is to turn it into a dip for fresh fruit. It’s a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of fruit with a creamy twist.
24. Frosting-Stuffed Golden Brown Pancakes
Make your breakfast special by sandwiching a spoonful of frosting between two golden brown pancakes. It’s a delightful way to start the day on a sweet note.
25. Frosting-Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates
For a savory twist, stuff pitted dates with leftover frosting and wrap them in crispy salty bacon. Roast them until the bacon is cooked, and you’ll have a unique appetizer that combines sweet and savory flavors. I know, I know, it sounds strange, but it’s worth a try. Some of the combination that sound the weirdest are the tastiest!
25 Ways to use Leftover Frosting
There you have it – 25 delicious ways to make the most of your leftover frosting. No more wasting that creamy goodness! Whether you’re using store-bought frosting or your own homemade creation, there’s hopefully an idea on this list that will satisfy your sweet tooth and turn that extra frosting into a delectable treat. Really, any baked good you make, you could give adding frosting to it a try!
So, the next time you find yourself with a bit of frosting left over from your baking adventures, remember these ideas and put that frosting to good use instead of throwing it out.
