What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
frosting
Example
I love the chocolate frosting on this cake. [frosting: noun]
Example
She is frosting the cupcakes with pink icing. [frosting: verb]
icing
Example
The donuts are covered in a thick layer of icing. [icing: noun]
Example
He is icing the sugar cookies with blue frosting. [icing: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Frosting and icing are both commonly used in baking and dessert-making. However, frosting is more commonly used in the United States, while icing is more commonly used in the United Kingdom.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between frosting and icing?
Both frosting and icing are informal terms and are commonly used in casual settings. However, frosting may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with layer cakes and special occasions.