Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

User Reviews

5

210 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Total Time

    5 mins

  • Servings

    24 cupcakes

  • Calories

    73 kcal

  • Course

    Dessert

  • Cuisine

    American

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is made by beating softened butter and gradually incorporating sifted powdered sugar until creamy. Vanilla extract and a pinch of salt enhance flavor, while heavy cream adjusts smoothness and spreadability. This frosting has a creamy, fluffy texture and a classic vanilla taste suitable for cakes and cupcakes.

Description

This Vanilla Buttercream Frosting starts with softened butter beaten until creamy, then carefully combined with powdered sugar added incrementally to create a smooth, thick base. Vanilla extract adds aroma and flavor, complemented by a pinch of salt to balance sweetness. Heavy whipping cream adjusts the frosting's consistency, making it easier to spread or pipe, creating a fluffy, light texture.

The frosting's sweetness and texture can be customized by adding more powdered sugar for stiffness or additional cream for softness. The gradual mixing process ensures a silky smooth finish without graininess. This classic frosting provides a versatile topping for various baked goods, delivering a balanced vanilla flavor that complements many cake types.

For a whiter color, clear vanilla can be used in place of pure extract. Milk may substitute cream but will result in a less rich and creamy texture.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 cup butter softened
  • 3 - 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla
  • Pinch salt
  • 2-3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Beat butter with a mixer - hand or stand - on medium for 2-3 minutes. 
  2. Add 3 cups of the powdered sugar 1/2 a cup at a time, and beat until well-combined. 
  3. Add vanilla and a pinch of salt and beat until well-combined.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons cream, and beat until combined. 
  5. If necessary, continue adding powdered sugar 1/4 cup at a time or cream 1 teaspoon at a time until you reach desired consistency.

Notes

  • Clear vanilla extract produces a whiter frosting appearance compared to pure vanilla extract.
  • Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess; milk can be used instead but results in a less creamy texture.
  • Sift powdered sugar before use to avoid lumps in the frosting.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1serving Calories 73kcal (4%) Fat 8g (12%) Saturated Fat 5g (25%) Cholesterol 22mg (7%) Sodium 68mg (3%) Potassium 2mg (0%) Vitamin A 255IU (5%) Calcium 3mg (0%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 24cupcakes

Amount Per Serving

Calories 73 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1serving
Calories 73kcal 4%
Fat 8g 12%
Saturated Fat 5g 25%
Cholesterol 22mg 7%
Sodium 68mg 3%
Potassium 2mg 0%
Vitamin A 255IU 5%
Calcium 3mg 0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

5

210 reviews
Excellent

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