Print

Buttercream Frosting

Buttercream Frosting
Print Recipe

Master the art of smooth and creamy Buttercream Frosting with this quick and versatile recipe. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and more, this classic frosting is light, fluffy, and easy to customize with different flavors. Ideal for decorators and last-minute celebrations, it holds shape beautifully for piping and decorating while delivering rich buttery flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Variations

  • 2–4 ounces melted dark or milk chocolate (for chocolate twist)
  • 2–3 tablespoons fresh fruit puree (strawberry, raspberry, etc.)
  • Use vegan butter and coconut milk for dairy-free version
  • 2 tablespoons caramel sauce and pinch of sea salt (for salted caramel flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin spice (for spiced flavor)

Instructions

  1. Soften Your Butter: Start with room temperature unsalted butter to ensure it blends easily without lumps, creating a creamy base for your frosting.
  2. Beat Butter Until Fluffy: Use a hand or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the butter turns light and fluffy, which is key for perfect texture.
  3. Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: Add powdered sugar in batches, mixing on low speed to avoid sugar clouds, then increase speed to incorporate air and maintain smoothness.
  4. Mix in Vanilla and Salt: Pour in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor complexity and balance the sweetness.
  5. Adjust the Consistency: Slowly add milk or heavy cream one tablespoon at a time, beating until the frosting reaches your desired spreadable or piping consistency.
  6. Whip for Final Texture: Whip the frosting on high speed for 2-3 minutes to make it ultra-light and smooth, ready for decorating.
  7. Use Immediately or Chill: Use right away for easy spreading, or refrigerate to set slightly before decorating. Re-whip if needed before use.

Notes

  • Keep all ingredients at room temperature to avoid curdling.
  • Sift powdered sugar to remove lumps and ensure silky texture.
  • Do not rush the beating process; the right amount of whipping ensures lightness without being greasy.
  • Add liquids slowly to control consistency and prevent runny frosting.
  • Experiment with flavors by adding extracts, zest, or spices gradually and tasting as you go.
  • Use a paddle attachment on a stand mixer for better creaming results.
  • If frosting becomes too soft, chill briefly and stir to regain pipeable texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: buttercream frosting, smooth frosting, creamy frosting, cake frosting, cupcake frosting, easy frosting, classic frosting

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/buttercream-frosting/