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4.9 from 153 votes

The BEST Cream Cheese Frosting

This is the BEST Cream Cheese Frosting recipe that's not overly sweet but full of vanilla flavor and can be made ahead of time! Easy to make and perfect for frosting any cakes or cupcakes. I share tons of tips and reveal the SECRET INGREDIENT below.

Prep Time
10 mins
Total Time
10 mins
Servings: 1 1/2
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese, at room temperature (brick-style, not spreadable)
  • 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla paste (or extract)
  • 2 cups (250 grams) powdered sugar, sifted (don't skip sifting!)

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla on medium-high speed until very light, creamy, and smooth. On low speed, gradually add in the sugar and beat until fluffy. If you need a stiffer consistency for decorative piping, add more powdered sugar.
Serving, Storing, and Make Ahead:
  1. Cream cheese frosting, alone or on cake or cupcakes, can sit at a cool room temperature for up to 8 hours before it should be refrigerated.
  2. The frosting can be made and transferred to an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 1 month. Bring to room temperature and re-whip with an electric mixer before using.

Notes

  • This recipe makes enough frosting for 12 cupcakes. It can be easily doubled to frost a 2 or 3 layer 8-inch cake.