The Best Buttercream Frosting
Do you love vanilla buttercream frosting? Follow our recipe to learn how make this classic companion to all of your favorite cakes. Read more now on Foodal.
Servings Prep Time
4cups 15minutes
Servings Prep Time
4cups 15minutes
Ingredients
  • 1cup (2 sticks) unsalted buttersoftened
  • 4cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/8teaspoon salt
  • 2teaspoons vanilla extract(or flavoring extract or oil of choice, adjusted to taste)
  • 1-2tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1/2cup cocoa powder(optional)
  • 2tablespoons citrus zest(optional)
Instructions
  1. In a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix the softened butter on medium speed until it is smooth with no lumps.
  2. Sift the confectioner’s sugar in a separate bowl. Add one cup at a time to the butter, beating very well after each addition.
  3. Add the salt, vanilla, and heavy cream. Mix on medium-high speed until very light and fluffy, approximately 5 minutes.
  4. Decorate immediately, or refrigerate for storage. Store for up to one week. Let it come to room temperature and re-beat in a stand mixer for a few seconds before using.
Recipe Notes

Variations:

Chocolate: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder after Step 3. Mix until well incorporated. You may need to add another teaspoon of heavy cream if it is too stiff once the cocoa powder is mixed.

Extracts: Replace the vanilla extract with your favorite flavor extracts or oils: peppermint or almond flavorings are great choices.

Citrus: Add two tablespoons of orange, lime, or lemon zest to the finished product.