Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is a classic staple every baker should have in their repertoire.
It’s light, creamy, and perfectly sweet — making it ideal for frosting cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more.
This foolproof recipe whips up in minutes and delivers bakery-quality results every time!
💛 Why You’ll Love This Frosting
- Rich & Creamy: Made with real butter for that smooth, decadent texture.
- Perfectly Versatile: Pairs with nearly any flavor of cake or cupcake.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness, color, or flavor.
- Piping-Ready: Holds its shape beautifully for decorations and borders.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3–4 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- ¼ tsp salt (optional, to balance the sweetness)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Beat the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low to prevent splatters.
Once incorporated, increase to medium speed and beat until smooth.
Step 3: Mix in Vanilla & Cream
Add vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons of cream or milk.
Beat on medium-high speed for another 2–3 minutes, until creamy and spreadable.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
- For thicker frosting: Add more powdered sugar.
- For softer frosting: Add an additional tablespoon of cream or milk.
Step 5: Frost or Store
Use immediately for decorating, or store for later use. See storage tips below. 🎂✨
🧊 Storage
- Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Bring to room temp and re-whip before using. - Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then beat again before use.
🎂 Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 –4 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- ¼ tsp salt optional, to balance sweetness
Instructions
- Step 1: Beat the Butter
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar
- Gradually mix in the sifted powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time.
- Start on low speed to prevent splatters, then increase to medium and beat until smooth.
- Step 3: Mix in Vanilla & Cream
- Add the vanilla extract and 3 tbsp of cream or milk.
- Beat on medium-high for 2–3 minutes until smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
- Step 4: Adjust Consistency
- For thicker frosting: Add more powdered sugar.
- For softer frosting: Add an extra tablespoon of cream or milk.
- Step 5: Frost or Store
- Use immediately to frost cupcakes or cake.
- To store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months. Bring to room temp and rewhip before using.
Notes
🔍 Nutrition (Per 2 Tbsp – Approximate)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 21g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 20mg
🔥 Tips for the Best Buttercream
- Use Quality Butter: Opt for European-style or high-fat butter for the richest flavor.
- Sift the Sugar: Always sift powdered sugar to prevent lumps.
- Beat Long Enough: Proper whipping makes it light, fluffy, and silky.
- Flavor It Up: Add almond extract, lemon zest, or even cocoa powder for variety.
- Color Like a Pro: Use gel food coloring for vibrant hues without thinning the frosting.
📊 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 2 tbsp)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 22g
- Sugar: 21g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 20mg
❓ FAQs
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temp and re-whip before using.
Can I use salted butter?
You can, but reduce or skip the added salt.
Can I pipe this frosting?
Absolutely! It holds its shape beautifully and is perfect for borders, swirls, and roses.
How do I make it less sweet?
Try adding a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone for a tangy balance.
✅ Final Thoughts
This Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is the perfect finishing touch for your baked treats.
Whether you’re topping cupcakes, layering cakes, or decorating cookies, this smooth and luscious frosting delivers every time.
Give it a try — your desserts (and guests) will thank you! 🧁✨
