Elevate your baked creations with the luscious Williams Sonoma Vanilla Buttercream Frosting, a classic recipe that strikes the perfect balance between creamy richness and velvety smoothness. Crafted with just five simple ingredients—unsalted butter, powdered sugar, whole milk, pure vanilla extract, and a touch of salt—this homemade frosting comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an effortless yet elegant choice for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. The recipe's secret lies in whipping the butter to a light, airy texture, creating the ideal foundation for a frosting that is both fluffy and perfectly spreadable. Whether you're preparing a birthday cake or need a go-to vanilla frosting for everyday treats, this versatile recipe delivers consistently delightful results. With its customizable consistency and hint of vanilla, this buttercream is sure to become your new dessert staple!
In a large mixing bowl, add the unsalted butter (softened to room temperature). Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium speed until it becomes light, creamy, and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Gradually sift in the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Pause intermittently to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula. Continue until all the sugar is fully incorporated.
Add the milk, pure vanilla extract, and salt to the butter mixture. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the frosting is fluffy and airy.
Taste the frosting and adjust, if necessary. Add a small pinch of extra salt to balance the sweetness, or additional milk (1 teaspoon at a time) if a thinner consistency is desired.
Once the frosting is smooth and spreadable, use it immediately to frost your baked goods, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it back to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Calories |
3589 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 198.7 g | 255% | |
| Saturated Fat | 115.9 g | 580% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 515 mg | 172% | |
| Sodium | 651 mg | 28% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 482.0 g | 175% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 471.7 g | ||
| Protein | 3.1 g | 6% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 110 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 0.3 mg | 2% | |
| 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.