This is the ultimate, easy-to-make Vanilla Buttercream Frosting recipe. It produces a creamy, smooth, and wonderfully fluffy frosting perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. It holds its shape well for piping.
Author:Kenji Sato
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:10 minutes
Yield:About 3 cups (enough to generously frost one 9-inch layer cake)
Category:Dessert Topping
Method:Mixing/Beating
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Place the softened butter into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until each addition is incorporated. Stop and scrape down the bowl often.
Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix on low speed until combined.
Begin adding the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, beating on medium-high speed. Add enough liquid until the frosting reaches your desired consistency—start with 2 tablespoons.
Once the liquid is added, increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 to 5 minutes. This step incorporates air, making the frosting light and fluffy.
Taste the frosting. If it is too thick, add a tiny bit more liquid. If it is too thin, add a few tablespoons more powdered sugar.
Use immediately to frost your cooled baked goods.
Notes
Always use room temperature, but not melted, butter for the best texture.
Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps in your finished frosting.
For a slightly stiffer frosting, use less liquid or substitute milk with heavy cream.
If your frosting seems too soft after mixing, chill it for 15 minutes before using.