Basic Frosting
Whip up a batch of sweet, fluffy perfection with this easy Basic Frosting recipe! Made with just five pantry staples—unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, milk or heavy cream, and a pinch of salt—this versatile frosting comes together in just 10 minutes. Its smooth, creamy texture and perfectly balanced sweetness make it the ideal topping for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or any baked treat needing a soft, decadent finish. With simple instructions and the flexibility to adjust consistency, this go-to buttercream frosting is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Store leftovers for later or use immediately to elevate your desserts into show-stopping creations.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup (softened) unsalted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar (also known as confectioners' sugar)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1 pinch pinch of salt
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened unsalted butter. Beat the butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until each addition is fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed.
Once all the powdered sugar is mixed in, add the vanilla extract, milk (or heavy cream), and a pinch of salt.
Increase the mixer to medium-high speed and beat the frosting for 2-3 minutes until light, fluffy, and smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add additional milk (1 teaspoon at a time) until you achieve your desired consistency. If it's too thin, add more powdered sugar by the tablespoon.
Taste the frosting and adjust the sweetness or salt if needed. Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or other baked goods, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let refrigerated frosting sit at room temperature and re-whip if necessary before use.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2798 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 96.3 g | 123% | |
| Saturated Fat | 56.2 g | 281% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 250 mg | 83% | |
| Sodium | 174 mg | 8% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 501.6 g | 182% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 501.6 g | ||
| Protein | 1.9 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 65 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 0.5 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 98 mg | 2% | |
*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.
