Buttercream Frosting
The ultimate creamy dream, this Buttercream Frosting is perfect for topping any dessert! Easy to make, versatile, and oh-so-delicious, it's the frosting your cakes and cupcakes have been waiting for. Whip it up tonight for your next baking adventure!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter softened
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar sifted to remove lumps
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla
- Pinch salt optional
- 2-3 tbsp heavy whipping cream half and half or milk can also be used
- food coloring if desired
Instructions
- Begin by placing your softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take around 3 to 5 minutes. You’ll notice it turning a pale yellow color, which is exactly what you want to see!
- Next, gradually add in the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time. After each addition, mix well until the powdered sugar is fully incorporated. This step is crucial for avoiding a grainy texture, so take your time here.
- Once you’ve added about four cups of powdered sugar, it’s time to enhance the flavor. Add the pure vanilla and a pinch of salt, and mix until everything is well combined. You should start to smell that wonderful vanilla aroma filling your kitchen!
- To achieve the desired consistency, add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream and mix thoroughly. If you prefer a firmer frosting, you can add more powdered sugar (an additional 1/4 cup at a time). Alternatively, if you’re looking for a thinner frosting, simply incorporate more heavy cream (1 teaspoon at a time).
- Once you reach the perfect consistency, you can add food coloring if you desire. Mix it in gently until you achieve the desired hue.
- Now, it’s time to use your delicious Buttercream Frosting! You can pipe it onto cakes, spread it on cupcakes, or even use it to frost cookies or brownies. Let your creativity shine!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Tip 2: Always check your frosting's consistency before frosting your baked goods.
- Tip 3: Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding extracts like almond or lemon.
- Tip 4: Use this frosting as a filling for cakes or cupcakes for an extra surprise bite!
- Tip 5: Think about seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice in the fall or peppermint in the winter.