Description
This Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is the ultimate creamy, sweet, and smooth frosting that’s perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more! Made with butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, this frosting is versatile and can be customized with various flavors or colors for your baking projects. It’s rich, fluffy, and sure to be a hit at your next celebration!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar (also called icing sugar)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2–4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- A pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
Instructions
- Beat the Butter:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). - Add Powdered Sugar:
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. After each addition, increase the speed to medium and continue mixing until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. - Add Vanilla and Cream:
Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream (or milk). Mix on low speed, then increase to medium and beat for another 3-5 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of cream to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. - Optional Salt:
If you want to balance out the sweetness, add a pinch of salt and mix until combined. - Frost Your Cake or Cupcakes:
Use a spatula or piping bag to apply the frosting to your cooled cake, cupcakes, or cookies. Decorate as desired.
Notes
- This frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just bring it to room temperature and re-whip before using.
- For a different flavor, you can add different extracts like almond or lemon, or add cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
- If using this frosting for piping, you can use a bit less cream to achieve a stiffer consistency.
- This frosting is great for layer cakes, cupcakes, and even as a filling for cookies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg