Red Seal Baker Practice Exam

What is the primary difference between buttercream and ganache?

1. Buttercream is made from butter and sugar, ganache is chocolate and cream

2. Buttercream is a cream-based frosting, while ganache is a butter-based frosting

3. Buttercream is used for cookies, while ganache is used for cakes

4. Buttercream is sweeter than ganache

The correct answer is: Buttercream is made from butter and sugar, ganache is chocolate and cream

The primary difference between buttercream and ganache lies in their ingredients and overall composition. Buttercream is primarily made by creaming together butter with powdered sugar, and it may include additional flavorings such as vanilla or cocoa. This results in a sweet, fluffy frosting that is often used for decorating cakes and cupcakes. On the other hand, ganache is made by combining chocolate with heated cream. This mixture can be used in various forms, such as a glaze or a filling, depending on the ratio of chocolate to cream. Ganache typically has a rich, smooth texture and is less sweet than buttercream, allowing the chocolate flavor to shine through. Understanding this distinction clarifies how these two frostings serve different purposes in baking and decorating. For example, while buttercream is ideal for creating intricate designs and decorations due to its stability and sweetness, ganache offers a luxurious chocolate experience and is preferred for certain cakes and pastries.