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The Best Classic American Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

A piping bag with a star tip is used to create swirls of creamy vanilla buttercream frosting on a white plate.
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Learn how to make this creamy, smooth, and fluffy vanilla buttercream frosting. This classic American buttercream is perfect for piping details on cakes and cupcakes and comes together quickly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter in 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.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes. This step incorporates air, making the frosting fluffy.
  4. Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium-high speed for another 3 to 5 minutes until the vanilla buttercream frosting is light, pale, and fluffy. If the frosting seems too stiff for spreading or piping, add the remaining tablespoon of cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  5. Use immediately to frost your cakes or cupcakes.

Notes

  • For the smoothest buttercream, ensure your butter is truly at room temperature—soft but not greasy or melted.
  • If your frosting seems too thin after adding the liquid, add a quarter cup more sifted powdered sugar to stiffen it up.
  • If your frosting looks grainy, beat it longer on medium-high speed; the friction helps dissolve the sugar crystals.
  • This frosting holds its shape well for piping when slightly cooler, so chill it briefly if needed before decorating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonfulsnap.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe/