Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe
This classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting recipe is a rich, creamy, and smooth frosting perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. Made with unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a touch of heavy cream, it whips up to a light and fluffy consistency that can be easily adjusted for spreading or piping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost a 9-inch two-layer cake or 24 cupcakes
- Category: Frosting
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Buttercream Frosting Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Unsalted Butter, room temperature
- 4 1/2 to 5 cups Powdered Sugar, sifted (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Fine Salt (or to taste)
- 4 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 3–4 Tbsp Heavy Cream or Whole Milk (added to desired consistency)
Instructions
- Beat the Butter: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment or using a handheld electric mixer, beat the unsalted butter on high speed for 5 minutes until it lightens in color and becomes fluffy. Scrape down the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Sift the Powdered Sugar: While the butter is beating, sift 4 1/2 to 5 cups of powdered sugar. Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low and add the powdered sugar one heaping tablespoon at a time, allowing each addition to fully incorporate before adding the next. Continue until all sugar is added and fully mixed, scraping the sides of the bowl as necessary.
- Mix In Salt and Vanilla: Add 1/4 teaspoon fine salt or to taste, then pour in 4 teaspoons vanilla extract. Beat the mixture on medium speed until the salt and vanilla are fully incorporated.
- Thin with Heavy Cream: Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, beating after each addition. Adjust the amount of cream or milk until the frosting reaches your desired consistency for spreading or piping. Beat for an additional minute until light and fluffy.
Notes
- For stiffer frosting, use less cream or milk; for a thinner consistency, add more liquid gradually.
- Make sure butter is at room temperature to ensure smooth whipping without lumps.
- Sifting powdered sugar prevents clumps and creates a smoother texture.
- The frosting can be colored with gel food coloring if desired.
- Store any leftover frosting covered in the refrigerator for up to one week, and re-whip before using.
Keywords: Vanilla Buttercream, Buttercream Frosting, Cake Frosting, Classic Frosting, Easy Buttercream
Find it online: https://yumwithmia.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe/
