Dreamy, creamy, and irresistibly smooth, this Vanilla Buttercream recipe is the ultimate frosting for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and beyond. Made with just a handful of pantry staplesโunsalted butter, sifted powdered sugar, pure vanilla extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of saltโthis frosting comes together in just 10 minutes. The result? A light and fluffy buttercream with the perfect balance of sweetness and buttery richness, enhanced by the warm, aromatic notes of vanilla. Easily adjustable for texture and flavor, it spreads effortlessly and pipes beautifully, making it a go-to frosting for bakers of all levels. Whether you're dressing up a celebration cake or adding a touch of indulgence to everyday desserts, this homemade vanilla buttercream will elevate every bite.
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until it becomes smooth and creamy.
Gradually add 4 cups of sifted powdered sugar to the bowl. Beat the mixture on low speed to prevent the powdered sugar from scattering. Increase the speed to medium once incorporated and continue mixing until light and fluffy.
Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 pinch of salt to the buttercream. Mix until well combined.
Pour in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk to adjust the consistency. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until the buttercream is creamy, fluffy, and spreads easily.
Taste the buttercream and adjust, if needed: add more vanilla extract for stronger flavor, or another pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Use immediately to frost your desired baked goods, or store the buttercream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Calories |
3828 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 202.8 g | 260% | |
| Saturated Fat | 128.5 g | 642% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 551 mg | 184% | |
| Sodium | 184 mg | 8% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 502.0 g | 183% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 489.5 g | ||
| Protein | 2.6 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.9 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 71 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 0.2 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 78 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.