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Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe

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4.4 from 5 reviews

This classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting recipe yields a smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweet frosting that’s ideal for cakes, cupcakes, and other baked treats. Made with unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a touch of heavy cream or milk, it’s whipped to light perfection in just 15 minutes, making it easy to customize for your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Buttercream Frosting

  • 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 4 1/2 to 5 cups powdered sugar, sifted (add to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp fine salt (or to taste)
  • 4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 34 Tbsp heavy cream or whole milk (added to desired consistency)

Instructions

  1. Beat the Butter: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or using a handheld electric mixer), beat the unsalted butter on high speed for 5 minutes. Continue until the butter lightens in color and becomes fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure even whipping.
  2. Sift the Powdered Sugar: While the butter is whipping, sift 4 1/2 to 5 cups of powdered sugar to remove lumps. Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low and gradually add the powdered sugar, one heaping tablespoon at a time, allowing it to incorporate fully before adding more. Add more or less powdered sugar to adjust sweetness and texture. Scrape the bowl as needed.
  3. Mix In Salt and Vanilla: Add 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt (adjust to taste) and 4 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the whipped butter and sugar mixture. Beat until all ingredients are fully combined for balanced flavor.
  4. Thin with Heavy Cream: Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time to the frosting. Continue beating until you reach the desired creamy and pipeable consistency. Beat an additional minute to ensure the frosting is fluffy and smooth.

Notes

  • For a stiffer frosting, use less heavy cream or milk.
  • You can substitute vanilla extract with other flavorings like almond or lemon extract for variations.
  • Ensure butter is at room temperature before starting for best texture.
  • Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.