Basic Butter Cake Buttercream Frosting
Whip up a batch of creamy perfection with this Basic Butter Cake Buttercream Frosting recipe, the ultimate companion for cakes, cupcakes, and more! With just five simple ingredients—unsalted butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt—this classic frosting comes together in just 10 minutes. Achieve a smooth, fluffy texture by whipping the butter until pale and airy before blending in the sugar and flavorings. The result is a velvety-sweet spread that balances richness with a touch of vanilla and a subtle hint of salt to cut through the sweetness. Perfect for frosting, piping, or spreading, this buttercream is as versatile as it is indulgent—and it’s easy to make ahead for any occasion!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
Ensure the butter is at room temperature. This will make it easier to whip into a fluffy consistency.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until it is pale, smooth, and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud from forming. Once each addition is incorporated, increase the speed to medium and continue until all the sugar is fully blended.
Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3-5 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.
Taste the frosting and adjust the flavor. Add a tiny pinch more salt if it tastes overly sweet, or a splash more vanilla extract if desired.
Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or desserts. If not using right away, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Bring it back to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2858 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 111.1 g | 142% | |
| Saturated Fat | 65.0 g | 325% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 293 mg | 98% | |
| Sodium | 181 mg | 8% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 480.1 g | 175% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 469.5 g | ||
| Protein | 0.8 g | 2% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 29 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 0.3 mg | 2% | |
| Potassium | 38 mg | 1% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
