Easy Buttercream Frosting
Whip up the ultimate sweet topping with this easy buttercream frosting recipe that's perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies! Made with just five simple ingredients—softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream or milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt—this classic frosting comes together in just 10 minutes. The secret to its irresistibly fluffy and silky texture lies in whipping the butter until creamy and gradually incorporating the sugar for a cloud-like finish. Whether you're decorating a birthday cake or adding a luscious swirl to a batch of cupcakes, this recipe offers a soft, pipeable consistency that’s easily customizable to suit your taste. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly, making it the ideal go-to frosting for all your baking adventures.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups Powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons Heavy cream or milk
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 1 pinch Salt
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until smooth, creamy, and lightened in color, about 2-3 minutes.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition to prevent sugar clouds. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Once the powdered sugar is fully incorporated, add the heavy cream or milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix on low until combined, then increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 3-5 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
Taste the frosting and adjust if necessary. You can add an additional teaspoon of heavy cream or milk for a softer consistency or more powdered sugar to thicken it. Similarly, add more vanilla or a tiny pinch of salt if desired.
Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. If not using right away, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Before using, allow the frosting to return to room temperature and re-whip to restore its texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
306 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.6 g | 21% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.4 g | 52% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 45 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 15 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40.1 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.3 g | ||
| Protein | 0.2 g | 0% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 6 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0.0 mg | 0% | |
| Potassium | 6 mg | 0% | |
*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.
