Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 32 reviews

A classic vanilla buttercream frosting that’s perfectly creamy, sweet, and easy to make. This recipe uses simple ingredients like unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla and almond extracts, and heavy whipping cream. It can be tinted with food coloring and optionally topped with raw sugar for a subtle shimmer, making it ideal for cookies, cakes, and cupcakes.

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving (enough to frost approximately 12 standard cookies)

Ingredients

Buttercream Frosting

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 – 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
  • 2-4 Tbsp heavy whipping cream
  • Pinch of salt
  • Food coloring, if desired
  • Raw sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Beat Butter: Using a standing mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter for about 2 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step adds air to the butter, ensuring a creamy texture.
  2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, starting with 2 1/2 cups, in half-cup increments. Beat well after each addition to incorporate fully and prevent clumps in the frosting.
  3. Mix in Extracts and Cream: Add the vanilla extract, optional almond extract, and 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream, then beat until smooth and fluffy.
  4. Adjust Texture: If the frosting is too thin, slowly add more powdered sugar up to 3 1/2 cups total. If it’s too thick, add more heavy cream up to 4 tablespoons to achieve your desired consistency.
  5. Add Salt: Mix in a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
  6. Add Color (Optional): If desired, incorporate food coloring to tint the frosting your preferred shade. Mix until color is uniform.
  7. Decorate: Spread or pipe the frosting onto cookies, cakes, or cupcakes as desired.
  8. Optional Topping: Sprinkle raw sugar on top of the frosting for a subtle shimmer and extra texture.
  9. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or store the frosting in the refrigerator if making ahead.
  10. Bring to Room Temperature: Before using refrigerated frosting, let it come to room temperature and re-whip if necessary to restore a spreadable consistency.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy whipping and smooth texture.
  • Adjust powdered sugar and heavy cream amounts to get the perfect frosting consistency for your need.
  • The almond extract is optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor.
  • Use food coloring sparingly to avoid altering the frosting’s texture.
  • Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
  • Rewhip frosting after refrigeration to restore fluffiness before use.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Frosting
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe/