Dessert & Treats Recipes Cake Recipes Fillings & Frostings Buttercream Frosting Recipes Quick Swiss Meringue Buttercream 2.5 (31) 3 Reviews By Martha Stewart Test Kitchen Martha Stewart Test Kitchen The recipes developed by our test kitchen team have undergone a rigorous process of development and testing, ensuring that every element is optimal, from ingredient amounts to method and cooking time. This process includes triple-testing recipes to ensure they meet our high standards. The many stellar cooks and food editors who have been part of our team include Sarah Carey, Lucinda Scala Quinn, Jennifer Aaronson, Shira Bocar, Anna Kovel, Greg Lofts, Riley Wofford, Lauren Tyrell, and Lindsay Leopold. Editorial Guidelines Updated on March 10, 2021 Print Rate It Share Share Tweet Pin Email Prep Time: 30 mins Total Time: 30 mins Yield: About 10 cups (enough for 7 dozen Number-Themed Mini Birthday Cupcakes, 1 "Who's Counting?" Birthday Cake, or 1 Pastel Layer Cake) Use this Swiss Meringue Buttercream recipe for our Number-Themed Mini Birthday Cupcakes, "Who's Counting?" Birthday Cake, or Pastel Layer Cake. Ingredients 2 ¼ cups sugar 10 large egg whites, room temperature Pinch of salt 8 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into small pieces 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract Gel-paste food coloring (optional) Directions Heat sugar, egg whites, and salt in a heatproof mixer bowl set over a pan of simmering water, whisking, until sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes. Return bowl to mixer, and whisk, gradually increasing speed from low to medium-high, until stiff, glossy peaks form, about 10 minutes. Reduce speed to medium. Add butter, a few pieces at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in vanilla. Switch to a paddle attachment. Beat until air bubbles are gone, 2 to 3 minutes more. Beat in food coloring, 1 drop at a time, until desired color is achieved. (If making more than 1 color, divide buttercream and work in batches.) Cook's Notes Buttercream can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before using, and beat on low speed until smooth. Rate it Print