Fresh Lemon Buttercream Frosting
User Reviews
4.8
Fresh Lemon Buttercream Frosting
Description
Fresh Lemon Buttercream Frosting is created by creaming unsalted butter and shortening until light and fluffy, then incorporating fresh lemon zest and juice for natural citrus flavor. Powdered sugar is added in increments then beaten until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. A pinch of salt and optional lemon extract refine the flavor depth.
The frosting results in a smooth, creamy texture that holds well on baked goods. Its flavor is sweet but brightened by the fresh lemon, offering a balance between sugary richness and citrus tang.
This frosting works well to top cakes or cupcakes, complementing vanilla, lemon, or other flavors that pair nicely with lemon. It can be piped or spread according to preference and serves well chilled or at room temperature.
The frosting stores well in the refrigerator for several days and can be frozen for longer periods. Before use, allow it to come to room temperature and rewhip to restore its consistency. Adjust thickness by adding more powdered sugar or lemon juice as needed before application.
Ingredients
- 2 lemon plural
- ¾ cup butter softened, unsalted
- ¼ cup shortening
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract optional
Instructions
- Zest both lemons and set zest aside. Juice one of the lemons to make two tablespoons of juice. Reserve the remaining lemon for another use.
- In a medium bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream butter and shortening with a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add lemon zest, lemon juice (and extract if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Add powdered sugar ½ cup at a time and beat until light and fluffy.
- To thicken consistency, add more powdered sugar. To soften consistency, add more lemon juice if required.
Notes
- Store frosting in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days, then bring to room temperature and whip again before use.
- Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months; thaw completely and rewhip, adding lemon juice to freshen flavor if needed.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 261 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 261 | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 32g | 11% |
| Protein | 0.3g | 1% |
| Fat | 16g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 31mg | 10% |
| Sodium | 92mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 29mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 30g | 60% |
| Vitamin A | 359IU | 7% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 11% |
| Calcium | 8mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.1mg | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.