Description
This Perfect Vanilla Frosting recipe yields a creamy, smooth, and fluffy frosting made from unsalted butter, powdered sugar, pure vanilla extract, and heavy cream or milk. Ideal for spreading or piping onto cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, this versatile frosting can be easily adjusted in consistency to suit your decorating needs.
Ingredients
Scale
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
Instructions
- Beat butter: In a large bowl, beat softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
- Add vanilla and cream: Add vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on high speed for 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Adjust consistency: If frosting is too thick, add more cream or milk 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Thicken if needed: If frosting is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
- Optional salt addition: Optionally, add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and beat again.
- Store or use: Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge. Before using refrigerated frosting, bring it to room temperature and re-whip for best texture.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in your frosting.
- Sift powdered sugar before adding for a smoother texture.
- Adjust the amount of cream or milk to control the thickness of the frosting for piping or spreading.
- The pinch of salt is optional but helps to balance the sweetness perfectly.
- Re-whip refrigerated frosting to restore fluffiness before use.
