Is frosting gluten free: in short, usually yes, frosting (sometimes called icing) will be gluten free. However, there are many ways that frosting can come into contact with gluten, so let’s take a further look.
Cross-Contact: A Chief Concern
For many people managing a gluten free diet (Celiac Disease, wheat allergy, etc.), cross-contact is an issue. I’ve found that about 30% of people with food allergies can’t eat food made on shared equipment with that they’re allergic to. Cross-contact can happen with frosting in several ways. If the equipment such as mixing bowls and spatulas are shared with gluten, that’s one way cross-contact can happen.
The next big way: the frosting isn’t made in a gluten free facility. If gluten containing grains or gluten containing flours are on site and regularly used, gluten is in the air. Quite literally. What that means is that said gluten can settle on the baking and mixing equipment, then be transferred to the final goods.
Some places have what’s called a clean room (with a closing door) where no allergens are present, which allows them to safely mix without the concern of cross-contact. The only way to learn about these details is to contact the company.
Frosting can be contaminated through raw materials. If you read the label, you’ll see that frosting usually contains powdered sugar, a starch, and several other ingredients. If the starch in the recipe was milled/processed on shared equipment with wheat or another gluten containing grain, the risk for cross-contact can be high. When you reach out to companies, you have to ask about raw material sourcing. Any company that gives you a hard time about this isn’t worth your time and you should move on to another option or make frosting at home.
Remember, cross-contact is not the same thing as cross-contamination. This article shares the difference so you know when to say cross-contamination, rather than cross-contact.
Common Ingredients in Frosting Recipes
Ingredients Common in Vanilla a Frosting Recipes
- Vanilla Extract
- Confectioners’ Sugar (AKA Powdered Sugar)
- Fat (butter or shortening)
- Salt
Common Ingredients in Chocolate Frosting Recipes
- Cocoa Powder or Cacao Powder
- Confectioners’ Sugar (AKA Powdered Sugar)
- Fat (butter or shortening)
- Salt
- Vanilla Extract
Note: These are not the common ingredients found in commercial frosting, unless you’re purchasing organic frosting from a brand such as Miss Jones Baking Co. If you purchase conventional frosting, you’re going to find a slew of ingredients that probably shouldn’t even be in food, but that’s a different conversation for a different day.
Where Gluten-Containing Ingredients Can Hide in Frosting
Artificial Colors & Artificial Flavor: You need to reach out to companies to confirm they haven’t used any wheat derivatives or products that contain gluten in their artificial ingredients such as malt.
Starches: Make sure the starch is not only gluten free, but was sources from a gluten free facility.
Powdered Sugar: Make sure the sugar was sourced from a gluten free facility.
Wheat Flour in Frosting
There is a special type of frosting called Ermine Frosting, and it legit contains wheat flour. You’re not likely to see this in a grocery store, but at a speciality bakery. Ermine frosting is considered an old fashioned type of frosting, so again, not super common, but it’s out there.
To make it, wheat four is cooked with milk, and then the frosting is made. Supposedly it’s similar to a German buttercream, but without the egg. Since I’m a free-from baker, that’s all I can tell you about this flour. If you’d like to make a wheat free Ermine frosting at home, you could make it with rice flour. I’ve made a really cool grain free version using cassava flour and frosted some amazing grain free chocolate cupcakes with it.
Wheat flour can also be present in low-no sugar frostings. This is because the flour is used to bulk up the body of the frosting without adding powdered sugar. This is also not super common, and you won’t find it in grocery stores, but at a bakery. This special frosting is an example, but I used cassava flour rather than wheat flour. It was the best way to create body for ultra low sugar frostings that didn’t rely on alternative sweeteners such as Stevia.
Related Recipe: Gluten Free, Top 9 Allergy Free Frosting Recipe
This dairy free vanilla frosting recipe is like a classic buttercream recipe (American style), but it’s dairy free, top 9 allergy free, and more.
Homemade Frosting Tips
When you’re making top 9 free + gluten free frosting, there are a few awesome things I can share to help you get the best results.
Make sure your butter/fat is room temperature. It should be soft, easy to press into, but still firm enough to hold its shape. It shouldn’t be melty in any way. The state of your fat is going to be one of the key factors in getting the right consistency.
Gluten-Free Frosting Recipes to Make at Home
Here are a few gluten-free frosting recipes I think you’ll love. The taste testers sure did. Each recipe is gluten free, vegan, and very allergy friendly.
- Dairy Free “Oreo” Buttercream Frosting (one of my kids’ favorite frostings)
- Dairy Free Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Bakery Strawberry Frosting Recipe (Gluten Free, Vegan, Top 9 Allergy Free)
- Silky Smooth Cherry Buttercream Frosting (GF + Top 9 Free)
- Gluten Free Chocolate Frosting Recipe (thick, silky, buttercream style, but top 9 allergy free)
- Dairy Free Peach Buttercream Frosting Recipe (such an amazing topping for not only cake but other desserts as well)
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Amazing Gluten-Free Cakes You Should Make ASAP
- Gluten Free Black Cacao “Faux Hostess Cupcake” Chocolate Cake Recipe (one of my kids’ favorite gluten free + top 9 allergy free cakes)
- Apple White Chocolate GF, V, Top 9 Free Cake Recipe (the tasters devoured an entire cake in one day…)
- Gluten Free Vanilla Cupcakes (Birthday Cake Style)
- Gluten Free Brown Sugar Peach Bourbon Cake Recipe (another cake, gone in a day, it’s just that good)
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Learn How to Make Stunning Party Cakes
If you’re new to gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free baking, I’ve got you covered. In fact, all of my recipes are gluten free + top 9 allergy free. My Cake Bundles are the perfect way to learn how to bake and decorate stunning holiday cakes and party cakes from start to finish. Each Cake Bundle comes with all of the recipes and step-by-step video tutorials you’ll need for success. Here are just a few of the bundles available:
- Snickerdoodle Cookie Cake Bundle (a real crowd pleaser)
- S’mores Cake Bundle (perfect for summer gatherings)
- Lemon Berry Blast Cake Bundle (good for baby showers and more)
- Construction Cake (such a fun cake for birthday parties)
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Answering Your Gluten-Free Frosting Questions
Can frosting be made Paleo?
Yes, of course it can! I have paleo frosting recipes and paleo cake recipes on RAISE (membership site). The easiest way to show you the Paleo recipes is via the Advanced Recipe Search. This specific link has the right boxes ticked to get you started.
Weird question: can I add protein powder to homemade frosting?
Totally not weird question, and yes, you can add protein powder to homemade frosting. It’s actually a cool thing to do in desserts, especially if you have someone in your home that needs extra protein for a medical reason.
There are two ways to add protein powder to your frosting. First, follow the recipe exactly, then add sifted protein powder, then mix again on low speed. As it mixes, you’ll need to add a little more liquid, 1 teaspoon at a time until you get back to the right consistency.
The second way to add protein powder is to substitute some of the powdered sugar in the recipe for protein powder. I wouldn’t go more than 20%, especially if the protein powder doesn’t taste awesome. Now, if you have a protein powder that tastes delicious, you could substitute a bit more of the powdered sugar. The fat and salt will remain the same in the recipe.
For the liquid, start with half the liquid in the recipe, then add the rest a little at a time until you reach the right consistency. Once you’ve got it right, you have a super cool topping for your dessert. Be sure to store your finished frosting in the fridge, especially if your protein powder contains milk.
Is icing the same thing as frosting?
Technically, yes. The term frosting is considered more of an American word whilst the rest of the world tends to say icing. However, icing usually implies that egg is present, so keep that in mind if you’re egg free. A lot of American frosting recipes are naturally egg free, so that could be one of the reasons we deviate from the traditional word.
Since the two are used interchangeably, always, allllwasssssy check the ingredient label to ensure it will be safe for you.
What’s the best gluten free powdered sugar to use?
I personally like the 365 brand from Whole Foods, however, I say that as someone who can’t have corn in their home. If there’s another brand that’s better (but has corn starch), I wouldn’t personally know.
I have had my kids do taste tests of the three corn starch free brands, and they always say the organic 365 powdered sugar tastes the best. One brand, even though it was organic, my kids said it tasted like synthetic sugar.
Can I make gluten free frosting in advance when I’m making chocolate cupcakes?
Yes, you can make gluten free frosting in advance. You’ll want to make sure that it’s stored properly, and I’ve shared storage instructions below.
How should I store homemade frosting?
Homemade frosting should be stored in an airtight container. Depending on the temperature of your home, it can be stored on the counter top (room temperature) or in your refrigerator. If it’s stored in the fridge, you need to allow it to come back up to temperature before using it. This can take about two hours, and it’s important that you don’t add more liquid to “loosen” the frosting as this will ruin said frosting once it does come back up to temperature.
If it’s hot where you live (room temperature above 75) frosting should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent it from melting. Been there, done that.
Can frosting be stored at room temperature?
Yes, so long as it’s not above 75f, and assuming you don’t have perishable ingredients. After that, you’re prone to having frosting melt. Also, depending on the ingredients of your frosting, it will have to be stored in the refrigerator. Some frostings contain perishable ingredients (fresh fruit, etc.) that will absolutely mold at room temperature after a few days.
Is vegan butter gluten free?
Usually, yes, vegan butter is gluten free. I’ve personally never seen a vegan butter contain gluten. They contain tree nuts, coconut, seeds, soy, and several other ingredients, but usually no gluten. The only thing you’ll have to check is if it’s made in a gluten free facility, depending on your level of sensitivity.
Where can I find recipes for dairy free and gluten free frosting?
You can find them online. If you search for “vegan frosting recipes” you’ll find a lot. Most of those will naturally be gluten free. You can also check out RAISE (membership website) that has loads of free-from frosting recipes for you to enjoy.
Does gluten free frosting work well on layer cakes?
Oh my goodness yes. Can I just shout YES! If there’s one thing I want to show the world, it’s that we can have out cake, and eat it too. Gluten free, dairy free, egg free, top 9 free frostings, all of them can be used on layer cakes. My Cake Bundles are a prime example and you can SEE the results.
So, have no fear, your free-from life will absolutely include delicious, visually stunning cakes.
Will gluten-free and egg-free frosting hold up on a 9-inch cake?
Yes, it will absolutely hold up. The key to decorating a gluten-free, egg-free cake (or any allergy friendly cake) is to freeze your cake layers first. It makes decorating a breeze. However, the caveat is that you can’t decorate slowly as frosting essentially sets on impact. RAISE (membership website) has cake decorating tutorials, all free-from, in case you need help getting started.
Can I store frosting in a freezer bag?
You can store frosting in a freezer bag, but I don’t suggest it. When you thaw the frosting, quite a bit will get stuck to the bag. It’s much better to store the frosting in a plastic container with an airtight lid. I do this all the time and using my thawed frosting is a breeze. Plus, the plastic containers I get are dishwasher safe, so cleanup is a breeze.
Is white frosting the same thing as vanilla frosting?
Usually, yes. White frosting (and white cake) usually indicates simple, with a hint of vanilla. You can always enhance the flavor by adding pure vanilla extract to the mix, but it’s not necessary.
Is canned frosting gluten free?
Some canned frosting options are gluten free. When looking at store-bought frostings, you’ll want to make sure it’s labeled gluten free, then double check the ingredient label before purchasing.
You also need to look at what the derivatives are, and if the natural frostings contain gluten. The one brand that I would trust is the Organic Miss Jones Baking Co. brand of frosting in a tub. They offer a few flavors, and have a good reputation in the free-from community.
Do I need to buy a special piping bag when using gluten free frosting?
I’d suggest the disposable bags from Wilton. They’re my personal favourite. I don’t suggest the baggie method. I know people say you can cut the tip off a baggie and it works, and I’ve actually tried it once, and it was a total fail. There’s so little control when compared to the proper piping bag.
If you’re making a quick cake that isn’t all that important, sure a baggie can work. However, if you want your cakes to have a nice look to them, get the Wilton bags. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Can I use coconut oil instead of vegetable shortening in a frosting recipe?
No, you shouldn’t use coconut oil instead of vegetable shortening in a frosting recipe. Now, there may be an exception to this: you’re making a coconut frosting and want to give it more of a coconut punch.
However, you should also know that coconut oil does not behave like oil and even dairy free butter because of its melting point. What that means is, your frosting may be awesome when fresh and difficult to work with once it’s been stored.
Do I need to use xanthan gum in homemade gluten free frosting?
No, you absolutely do not need xanthan gum in your frosting. I know at least one popular brand (Duncan Hines) uses gums in their frosting tubs. When you make frosting at home, the ingredients are super simple: sugar, butter, water/milk, vanilla, salt. That’s it.
I actually had to look up popular brands of tub frosting and boxed frosting mix just to see what was out there and I was shocked. They’re using ingredients such as potassium sorbate, high fructose corn syrup (on top of the sugar), several gums, and just so many ingredients that we know humans shouldn’t be consuming. I get why they do it: it’s cheap and modern humans have had their taste buds hijacked into thinking it tastes good….
Usually I try to keep my opinions to myself on this sort of thing, but frosting is SUPER easy to make at home (2-3 minutes of mixing time), so if you can, do. You’ll end up consuming a lot less questionable ingredients.
Is palm oil gluten free?
Usually, yes, palm oil is gluten free. Depending on your level of sensitivity you may need to confirm that it’s made in a gluten free facility before purchasing. However, based on the actual ingredients, palm oil is indeed gluten free.
What tools will I need to make gluten free frosting at home?
To make gluten-free frosting at home, you’ll need a few tools: a stand mixer or handheld electric mixer, large mixing bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), paddle attachment, a spatula, kitchen scale, and measuring spoons. Here’s an easy recipe to follow to get you started.
If you use a handheld mixer, the two standard beaters are able to form a frosting (you don’t need to purchase a special attachment or anything like that).
Do you know of a confectioners’ sugar that doesn’t have corn starch?
I know of a couple of options for you, but, I can’t say that they’re truly corn free. Usually, the corn free version of confectioners’ sugar uses tapioca starch, and the two brands I’ve used in the past are 365 (Whole Foods in-house brand) and Wholesome Sweeteners.
However! And this is a BIG point. If you have a corn allergy, neither of those brands are safe. 365 used to be safe, then they had a two year period where they used corn starch, then switched back to the tapioca switch. Since the switch back, even though it’s been years, I have yet to meet anyone with a corn allergy that can still eat it.
For Wholly Wholesome, the first step in their manufacturing is equipment shared with corn (last I checked). After that, the equipment is corn free, but the risk for cross-contact is high, so unless you know you’re OK with trace amounts, they aren’t the brand for you wither.
The good news is that you can make powered sugar at home with your blender using cane sugar and a starch.
Can I add lemon juice to my frosting, or would it split?
Rather than add lemon juice to a frosting recipe I always advise adding lemon zest + organic food grade lemon oil. These two ingredients combined are an easy way to give your frosting a robust lemon flavor. With frosting, you don’t use a tonne of liquid to being with, and you’d need a good amount of lemon juice to get the same effect.
In terms of splitting a recipe, it depends on what the other ingredients are in your frosting. The nice thing about the zest + oil is that it won’t matter if you’re using dairy free butter, cream cheese, sour cream, or any other dairy/non-dairy ingredients in the frosting. The oil and zest won’t disturb the other ingredients.
Does coconut milk work in dairy free frosting?
If you use coconut milk from the box, which is the more watery type of coconut milk, yes, it would work flawlessly. If you use coconut milk from the can (full fat coconut milk), I don’t know that you’ll have the same results.
Now, if you’re making something like a creamy coconut pecan frosting, I’d totally encourage you to try it with both the box and canned versions of coconut milk. Having the full fat milk in a creamy coconut frosting recipe could amplify the taste and mouthfeel. What you want to do is avoid using too much and splitting your recipe.
If you opt for full fat coconut milk, you may end up using a blend of the full fat milk and the more watery milk just to make sure you strike the right balance.
Is pure vanilla extract the same thing as vanilla flavoring?
No, pure vanilla extract isn’t the same thing as vanilla flavoring. An extract, especially a pure one, means you’re getting two ingredients: the key item and a carrier alcohol. In the case of pure vanilla extract, the only two ingredients should be something like vanilla beans and alcohol. You can always reach out to a manufacturer to find out what their alcohol source is.
Vanilla flavoring on the other hand can have a wide range of ingredients as it’s created from compounds that mimic the taste of what it’s supposed to be. On product labels for vanilla flavoring you may find ingredients such as citric acid or preservatives, neither of which have anything to do with vanilla beans.
Vanilla flavoring is also usually much less expensive, but you know the old saying you get what you pay for? It’s like that. Companies make these flavorings from cheap chemicals and compounds and sometimes get the taste right, and other times totally miss the mark. Personally, I only use organic vanilla extract, and everyone raves about my fluffy frosting recipes and dang delicious cakes.
Should I use melted butter or room temperature butter when making frosting at home?
You’ll want to use room temperature butter when making frosting at home. Melted butter won’t create the same creamy frosting, at least, not if you’re following one of my frosting recipes. There are some recipes that would take well to a melted butter or oil, but this doesn’t happen to be one of them.
