Description
This easy vanilla buttercream frosting recipe creates a creamy, smooth, and fluffy topping perfect for your cakes and cupcakes. It is the classic American buttercream you need for simple dessert decorations.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Place the softened butter into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. This prevents a sugar cloud in your kitchen.
- Once all the sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 to 5 minutes. This whipping time is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture. Scrape the bowl as needed.
- Check the consistency for your piping needs. If the vanilla buttercream frosting is too stiff, add the remaining tablespoon of cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach a smooth consistency that holds its shape well for decorating.
- If the frosting seems too soft or runny, add a quarter cup more sifted powdered sugar and beat again until combined.
- Use immediately to frost your favorite cakes or cupcakes.
Notes
- Room temperature butter is essential for smooth buttercream. If your butter is too cold, the frosting will be lumpy. If it is melted, the frosting will be greasy.
- For the best flavor, use pure vanilla extract, not imitation.
- If you need a very stiff vanilla frosting for detailed piping work, reduce the liquid (cream/milk) slightly and increase the beating time.
- To make this frosting ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring it to room temperature and re-whip it before using.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 55
- Sodium: 75
- Fat: 17
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 58
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 0.5
- Cholesterol: 45