Creamy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Introduction
Creamy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is a classic and versatile topping that adds a smooth, sweet finish to any cake or cupcake. Rich and velvety, this frosting is easy to make and perfect for celebrations or everyday treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter on medium speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Step 2: Gradually add sifted powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to prevent sugar clouds. Once combined, increase to medium-high speed and beat for an additional 2 minutes.
- Step 3: Mix in the pure vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, beating until well blended.
- Step 4: Adjust the consistency with more heavy cream if needed, then taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a different flavor, swap the vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract.
- If frosting is too soft, chill it briefly before using to firm up.
- Add a few drops of gel food coloring to match your party theme or occasion.
Storage
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, bring it back to room temperature and re-whip briefly to restore creaminess. You can also freeze it for up to three months.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt to avoid an overly salty frosting.
How do I fix a frosting that’s too runny?
Chill the frosting in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, then re-whip to thicken it up. You can also add a little more powdered sugar if needed.
PrintCreamy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe
This creamy vanilla buttercream frosting is a smooth, fluffy, and sweet topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Made with unsalted butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and pure vanilla extract, it delivers a rich vanilla flavor with a velvety texture that spreads easily and tastes delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost one 9-inch layer cake or approximately 24 cupcakes
- Category: Frosting
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter on medium speed for about 3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, which creates the perfect base for a smooth frosting.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to prevent sugar dust. Once all the sugar is combined, increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for an additional 2 minutes to incorporate air and achieve a fluffy texture.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Mix in the pure vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, continuing to beat until these ingredients are fully blended, which enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add more heavy cream, a teaspoon at a time, until the desired spreadable consistency is reached. Taste the frosting and adjust sweetness if necessary, then beat briefly to combine.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for the best whipping results.
- Sift powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the frosting.
- Adjust the heavy cream quantity to get your preferred consistency, whether for spreading or piping.
- Store unused frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before using.
- This frosting is perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Keywords: vanilla buttercream frosting, creamy frosting, cake frosting, cupcake frosting, easy buttercream, homemade frosting
