Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe
A classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting recipe that is smooth, creamy, and perfect for frosting cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Made with unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a touch of heavy cream, this frosting whips up light and fluffy with a delicious vanilla flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost a 2-layer 9-inch cake or about 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
- 1/4 tsp fine salt, or to taste
- 4 tsp vanilla extract
- 3–4 Tbsp heavy cream or whole milk
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. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Sift the Powdered Sugar: While the butter is whipping, sift 4 1/2 to 5 cups of powdered sugar. Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low and gradually add powdered sugar one heaping tablespoon at a time, allowing it to fully incorporate before adding more. Continue until all the powdered sugar is added and the mixture is smooth, scraping sides occasionally.
- Add Salt and Vanilla: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt (adjust to taste) to balance the sweetness, then add 4 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until these ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Thin with Heavy Cream: Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, to thin the frosting to your desired consistency. Beat the frosting for another minute until it is light, airy, and perfectly whipped.
Notes
- For a thicker frosting, use less heavy cream, and add powdered sugar as needed.
- To make this frosting dairy-free, substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk alternative.
- Sift powdered sugar to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Adjust the amount of vanilla extract based on your preference for flavor intensity.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before using again.
Keywords: vanilla buttercream, frosting recipe, classic buttercream, cake frosting, cupcake frosting, easy frosting
Find it online: https://zestywithzane.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe/
