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The Best Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe

A single vanilla cupcake topped with a generous swirl of fluffy vanilla buttercream frosting, sitting on a small white saucer.
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Make the ultimate creamy, fluffy, and smooth vanilla buttercream frosting. This classic American buttercream is stable for piping decorations, layer cakes, and topping cupcakes. Achieve bakery style results easily.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon 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 salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes. This step incorporates air, making the frosting light and fluffy.
  4. Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium-high speed for another 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is light in color and smooth.
  5. Check the consistency. If the frosting is too stiff for spreading, add the remaining tablespoon of cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency for spreading or piping.
  6. If the frosting is too soft for stiff piping, add 1/4 cup more sifted powdered sugar and beat until stiff.
  7. Use immediately to frost your layer cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.

Notes

  • For the smoothest buttercream icing, ensure your butter is truly at room temperature, not melted.
  • Sifting the powdered sugar prevents graininess in your final product.
  • If you need a stiffer frosting for decorating, reduce the liquid slightly or add more powdered sugar.
  • This recipe yields enough to frost one 9-inch layer cake or about 18 standard cupcakes.

Nutrition

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