Description
A smooth and creamy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting made with unsalted butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract, perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. This versatile frosting can be easily adjusted for consistency and stored for later use.
Ingredients
Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 4 – 5 cups (480-600g) confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream, half-and-half, or whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Salt, to taste (typically 1/8 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Beat the Butter: With a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Wet Ingredients: Add 4 and 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract to the butter. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds to combine, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 2 full minutes until light and fluffy.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the frosting and add a pinch of salt (about 1/8 teaspoon) if it tastes too sweet, beating again to incorporate.
- Adjust Consistency: Control the thickness by adding up to 1/2 cup more confectioners’ sugar if the frosting is too thin, or add more heavy cream one tablespoon at a time if too thick. Beat after each addition and taste until desired texture is achieved.
- Store or Use: Use the buttercream frosting immediately or cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator and re-beat on medium speed to restore creaminess. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk to thin if needed after thawing or refrigeration.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream, but milk or half-and-half can be substituted if preferred.
- Softened butter at room temperature is key for achieving a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Adjust the amount of confectioners’ sugar depending on your desired sweetness and consistency.
- Buttercream can be stored in the fridge or freezer; always re-beat before using to restore texture.
- Adding salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the vanilla flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
