This vanilla buttercream frosting is a foolproof recipe for creating a creamy, light, and perfectly sweet topping for any dessert. Whether you’re frosting cupcakes, cakes, or cookies, this versatile frosting is easy to customize and ideal for any occasion—from birthdays to weddings to everyday treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and Creamy: Smooth texture with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Easy to Make: Ready in 10 minutes with just five simple ingredients.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the flavor and consistency to your liking.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: A classic frosting for cakes, cupcakes, and more.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares well in advance for stress-free baking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 4 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp heavy cream or whole milk
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
Directions
Step 1: Cream the Butter
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until combined.
Step 3: Mix in the Vanilla and Cream
- Add the vanilla extract, heavy cream (or milk), and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for another 2-3 minutes until the frosting is creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
- If the frosting is too thick, add more cream, 1 tsp at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. For thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar.
Step 5: Use Immediately
- Spread or pipe the frosting onto your favorite cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 (enough to frost 24 cupcakes or one 9-inch cake)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Buttercream: Replace 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 1/2 cup cocoa powder.
- Almond Flavor: Substitute half of the vanilla extract with almond extract.
- Citrus Twist: Add 1 tsp of lemon or orange zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Extra Rich: Use half cream cheese and half butter for a creamier texture.
- Colorful Frosting: Add gel food coloring to match your theme or occasion.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and re-whip before using.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but omit the added salt to avoid an overly salty flavor.
2. How do I make the frosting stiffer for piping?
Add more powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
3. Can I make this frosting dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with vegan butter and the cream with almond or coconut milk.
4. How do I prevent the frosting from being too sweet?
Add a pinch more salt or balance the sweetness with a touch of cream cheese.
5. Can I use this frosting under fondant?
Yes, this buttercream works well as a crumb coat for fondant-covered cakes.
6. What’s the best way to frost cupcakes with this recipe?
Use a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip for beautifully decorated cupcakes.
7. How can I make this frosting fluffier?
Whip the frosting for an additional 1-2 minutes at medium-high speed.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and ensure your mixer bowl is large enough.
9. How do I fix frosting that’s too runny?
Chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes, then re-whip. Alternatively, add more powdered sugar.
10. What desserts pair best with this frosting?
This buttercream is perfect for classic vanilla or chocolate cakes, funfetti cupcakes, sugar cookies, or as a filling for macarons.
Conclusion
The Best Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is a timeless recipe that’s light, creamy, and effortlessly versatile. With its perfect balance of sweetness and buttery richness, it’s the ideal topping for all your favorite baked goods. Whip up this quick and foolproof recipe, and make your desserts unforgettable!
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The Best Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This foolproof Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is light, creamy, and packed with rich vanilla flavor! Perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, it’s a versatile recipe for birthdays, weddings, or any special occasion dessert.
Ingredients
Baking & Spices:
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
- 4 tsp vanilla extract
Dairy:
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 tbsp heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions
- Cream the Butter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the Vanilla and Salt:
- Mix in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate the Powdered Sugar:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Adjust the Consistency:
- Add the heavy cream or whole milk, 1 tbsp at a time, beating on medium-high speed until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Use or Store:
- Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. If not using right away, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, or refrigerate for up to 1 week (bring to room temperature and rewhip before using).
Notes
- For a stiffer frosting (ideal for piping), add more powdered sugar.
- To make the frosting extra smooth, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the butter.
- Experiment with flavors by substituting vanilla extract with almond, lemon, or coconut extract.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
