Classic Fluffy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Make a rich, smooth, and fluffy vanilla buttercream frosting from scratch. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for frosting cakes and piping decorations.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 10 min
- Yield: About 3 cups
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Place the softened butter in a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the vanilla extract and the pinch of salt. Mix on low speed until combined.
- Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 to 5 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- If the frosting seems too stiff, add the remaining cream or milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired spreading or piping consistency.
- Use immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes.
Notes
- For the fluffiest result, ensure your butter is truly at room temperature, but not melted.
- Sift your powdered sugar to prevent lumps in the final frosting.
- If the frosting seems too soft after mixing, chill it for 10 to 15 minutes before using it for piping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 55
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 56
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 60