What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
icing
Example
The cake was covered in a thick layer of icing. [icing: noun]
Example
She spent hours perfecting the icing on the cupcakes for the party. [icing: gerund or present participle]
topping
Example
I always add extra chocolate chips as a topping on my ice cream. [topping: noun]
Example
He topped the pizza with fresh basil and sliced tomatoes. [topped: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Icing is more commonly used in baking and pastry-making, while topping is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of dishes and cuisines.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between icing and topping?
Both icing and topping can be used in formal and informal contexts, but icing may be considered more formal due to its association with traditional cake decorating and pastry-making.
