Buttercream vs Fondant: Which Is Right for Your Cake?

Buttercream or fondant is one of the first choices for a custom cake, and it is really a question of look versus taste. Here is the honest difference, and how to decide.

Buttercream

Soft, creamy, and made for flavor. Buttercream gives a natural, hand-finished look, smooth, textured, or piped, and most people prefer how it tastes. It is the default for many of our cakes.

Fondant

A smooth, sculptural finish that takes sharp edges, crisp detail, and certain designs buttercream cannot. Some looks simply need it. Underneath, the cake is still from scratch.

How to choose

Start with the look you want and let the finish follow. Many cakes are buttercream with fondant accents, the best of both. Bring inspiration photos to your tasting and Stephanie recommends the right approach.

Frequently asked questions

Does buttercream or fondant taste better?

Most people prefer the taste of buttercream; fondant is chosen for looks the design needs.

Which should I choose?

Start with the look you want. Many cakes use buttercream with fondant accents.

Are your cakes still made from scratch under fondant?

Always. The finish is just the outside; the cake is from scratch.

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