Lemon Buttercream Icing
Elevate your baked creations with this luscious Lemon Buttercream Icing, a tangy-sweet topping that will brighten cakes, cupcakes, and cookies alike. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 10 minutes, blending creamy unsalted butter with freshly squeezed lemon juice, vibrant lemon zest, and a hint of vanilla for a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Silky powdered sugar creates a smooth, fluffy texture, while an optional splash of heavy cream allows you to achieve the ideal consistency for spreading or piping. Perfect for spring desserts or any citrus lover, this versatile lemon frosting is as vibrant in taste as it is in appearance. Enjoy it fresh or make ahead for effortless decorating!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups Powdered sugar (sifted)
- 3 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 pinch Salt
- 2 tablespoons Heavy cream or milk (optional)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy and pale, about 2-3 minutes.
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, increase the speed to medium and beat for another 1-2 minutes to make the mixture fluffy.
Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Beat the mixture on medium speed until fully combined, about 1 minute. Taste and adjust the lemon juice for more tartness, if desired.
If the buttercream appears too thick, add heavy cream or milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, and beat until the desired consistency is reached.
Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. If not using right away, cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow the frosting to come to room temperature and rewhip before using.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3832 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 202.9 g | 260% | |
| Saturated Fat | 128.5 g | 642% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 551 mg | 184% | |
| Sodium | 184 mg | 8% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 506.6 g | 184% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 490.2 g | ||
| Protein | 2.9 g | 6% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.9 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 88 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 0.2 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 134 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.
