Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
This recipe provides a simple guide to making light, fluffy, and creamy vanilla buttercream that holds its shape well for decorating cakes and cupcakes.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 10 min
- Yield: About 3 cups
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Beat the softened butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer until it is light and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high.
- Slowly add the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Beat for 3 to 5 minutes on medium-high speed to incorporate air for a lighter texture.
- If the frosting is too thick, add a little more cream. If it is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
- Use immediately for frosting cupcakes or decorating cakes.
Notes
- For the smoothest results, ensure your butter is truly at room temperature but not melted.
- Sift the powdered sugar before measuring to prevent lumps in your final frosting.
- If you are piping detailed designs, chill the finished frosting for 10 minutes before using.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 40mg