National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Culinary Practice Exam

What type of frosting is typically made with a cooked mixture of sugar and water?

1. Buttercream

2. Royal icing

3. Meringue frosting

4. Syrup frosting

The correct answer is: Meringue frosting

The correct answer is Meringue frosting, which is made using a cooked mixture of sugar and water. The preparation involves bringing sugar and water to a boil, dissolving the sugar, and then incorporating egg whites that have been whipped to soft peaks. This method creates a light, airy texture that is characteristic of meringue frosting. When the hot syrup is poured into the whipped egg whites, it helps stabilize the meringue and creates a glossy finish. Other options differ in their preparation processes. Buttercream is typically made by beating together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, without cooking. Royal icing is prepared from egg whites or meringue powder mixed with powdered sugar to create a stiff icing, and it does not require cooking. Syrup frosting is not a standard term within common frosting types, and while it suggests the use of a syrup, it does not specifically indicate the cooked components that define meringue frosting.