Lemon Buttercream Frosting
Bright, tangy, and irresistibly creamy, this Lemon Buttercream Frosting is the ultimate topping to elevate any dessert! Made with rich, softened unsalted butter whipped to perfection, it boasts just the right balance of sweetness from powdered sugar and a zesty kick from fresh lemon juice and fragrant lemon zest. A splash of heavy cream and pure vanilla extract adds a luxurious texture and depth of flavor, making this frosting delightfully smooth and fluffy. Perfect for spreading or piping onto cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this 15-minute recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking to add a burst of citrus to a summer treat or brighten up your desserts year-round, this lemon buttercream is sure to impress.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, heavy cream (or milk), vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Beat on low speed to combine, then increase the speed to medium-high and whip the frosting until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Taste the frosting and adjust the flavor if needed. Add more lemon juice for extra tartness or a little more powdered sugar for thicker consistency.
Use the frosting immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3698 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 203.0 g | 260% | |
| Saturated Fat | 128.5 g | 642% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 551 mg | 184% | |
| Sodium | 195 mg | 8% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 485.1 g | 176% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g | 2% | |
| Total Sugars | 472.1 g | ||
| Protein | 2.9 g | 6% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 84 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 131 mg | 3% | |
*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.
