How to make pure white icing for Christmas desserts

If you’re chasing that clean, snowy-white icing for your Christmas cakes and desserts, this Copha-based version is the way to go. It gives you a smooth, bright white finish that’s hard to achieve with other fats, which is why it’s such a handy option for festive decorating.

Copha has been used in Australian kitchens for generations, and its naturally pale colour and firm texture help you get that crisp, white result without fuss.

In partnership with and featuring recipes from Copha.

Copha Pure White Icing on Christmas Cake

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Pure White Icing for Christmas Desserts

The method is simple and the video in this article shows the whole process step-by-step, but here’s the gist of how it comes together.

The basic process

Start by softening the Copha just enough so that your mixer can work with it. Beat it on a low speed until it loosens, then increase to medium until it’s creamy and smooth - this usually takes a few minutes. Add a splash of vanilla for flavour, then work in the icing sugar gradually. A little boiling water helps everything blend into a pale, fluffy frosting.

One thing to keep in mind with this icing is that Copha firms up as it cools, so you’ll want to use it straight after beating while it’s still soft and spreadable. If it starts to stiffen, a short 10-second burst in the microwave is all you need before whipping it again.

Ingredients

250g Copha, sliced, softened
1-2 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups icing sugar mixture, sifted
2 - 3 tablespoons boiling water

Method

Start by whipping soften Copha on high speed in a stand mixer until completely soft
Add vanilla extract
Add sifted icing sugar and boiling water in batches
Continue mixing for 5 minutes on high until mixture becomes light and fluffy

Tips for getting the perfect white finish

Beat longer than you think. Copha lightens as it’s whipped, so giving it a few extra minutes helps it turn fluffy and bright white.
Add icing sugar slowly. This keeps the texture smooth and prevents lumps.
Use warmth to your advantage. If the frosting looks a little thick or grainy, gentle heat brings it back to a cloud-like consistency.
Work quickly. Once it’s fluffy, spread it straight over your cake while it’s at its best. Leave a small border around the base if you’re adding decorations.
Make ahead if needed. You can make the icing the day before. Just re‑soften it in the microwave and beat again before using.

Storing your finished cake

A Copha-iced cake keeps well in a cool spot, lightly covered with plastic wrap. It’ll stay fresh for up to a week and the icing will hold its bright white look - perfect for Christmas week baking.

This icing is easy, reliable and gives you that classic snowy finish that looks great on fruit cakes, coconut cakes, gingerbread loaves and simple vanilla sponges. Once you see how white it turns out, it’ll probably become a go‑to for your festive bakes.