Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Overhead view of vanilla buttercream swirls

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Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

This ultra-smooth and creamy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting recipe is a classic flavor and perfect for piping onto cupcakes or frosting cakes, for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion!

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: vanilla buttercream frosting, vanilla buttercream frosting recipe, vanilla frosting

Servings: (2 & 1/2 cups total) - see note

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter , softened to room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 cups powdered sugar
2-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream , room temperature

Instructions

With a handheld mixer (or stand mixer fitted with a whisk or paddle attachment), beat butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes or until creamy and lightened in color, scraping down the bowl as needed.
Add vanilla extract and salt, until combined and smooth.
Add in powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until sugar is incorporated, scraping down the bowl several times to ensure everything is well blended.
Slowly beat in 2 tablespoons heavy cream, increasing speed to high and beating for 1 more minute until frosting reaches desired consistency.
Add in more heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, ONLY if necessary. (Frosting should be light and fluffy, and easily spreadable, but hold its shape if spreading, or a little stiffer and does not fall if used for piping.)
Use as desired for cupcakes or cake right away or store for later (storage information included in the article.)

Notes

This vanilla frosting recipe renders enough to pipe tall on 12-16 cupcakes, a thin layer on 24 cupcakes, 9-inch round 2-layer cake, or a layer on a 9×13 inch cake.

Nutrition