Amazing 10-Minute Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
This is the ultimate, easy-to-make Vanilla Buttercream Frosting recipe. You will achieve a creamy, smooth, and fluffy texture perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Amelia and Jacob perfected this recipe for reliable results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 3 cups of frosting (enough to frost one 8-inch layer cake)
- Category: Dessert Component
- Method: Creaming/Beating
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Beat the softened butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer until creamy and light in color. This takes about 3 minutes.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Add the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, beating on medium-high speed for 3-5 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- If the frosting is too thick, add more liquid, one teaspoon at a time. If it is too thin, add more powdered sugar, one quarter cup at a time.
- Use immediately for piping or spreading.
Notes
- Always use room temperature butter for the creamiest results.
- Sifting the powdered sugar removes lumps, leading to a smoother finish.
- For stiff piping consistency, use 2 tablespoons of liquid. For a softer spreadable frosting, use 4 tablespoons.
- Taste before adding all the liquid; you may find it perfect with less.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg