Classic Homemade Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups of powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
  • 3-4 tablespoons of heavy cream
  • A pinch of salt

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the softened butter into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes creamy and light in color.
  3. Slowly add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, to the butter while beating on low speed. This process will help to prevent the sugar from flying out of the bowl.
  4. Once all the sugar is incorporated, add in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Continue to beat on medium speed.
  5. Add the heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on medium speed. Continue to add cream until you achieve your desired consistency. For a stiffer frosting, add less cream. For a softer, creamier frosting, add more cream.
  6. Once all the ingredients are well combined, increase the speed to high and beat for an additional 2-3 minutes to whip some air into the frosting and make it lighter and fluffier.
  7. Your buttercream frosting is now ready to be used. It can be spread onto cakes or cupcakes, or placed into a piping bag to pipe out decorations.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Chocolate Buttercream: Add 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the recipe along with the powdered sugar for a rich and chocolatey variation.
  • Strawberry Buttercream: Add 1/4 cup of strawberry puree (strained if desired) to the recipe along with the powdered sugar for a fruity and pink-hued frosting.
  • Lemon Buttercream: Add 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the recipe along with the powdered sugar for a tangy and refreshing twist.
  • Mocha Buttercream: Dissolve 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules into 1 tablespoon of hot water. Add the coffee mixture to the recipe along with the powdered sugar for a delicious coffee-flavored frosting.
  • Mint Buttercream: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the recipe along with the powdered sugar for a cool and refreshing minty flavor.
  • Cream Cheese Buttercream: Replace half of the butter with cream cheese for a tangy and creamy frosting variation. Use 1/2 cup of butter and 1/2 cup of cream cheese.

Recipe overview

Indulge your sweet tooth with this simple and delicious Buttercream Frosting recipe. This classic frosting is perfect for spreading over cakes, piping onto cupcakes, or even just sneaking a taste from the bowl. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you'll create a creamy, fluffy, buttery frosting that's sweet, but not overly so. The base is softened unsalted butter, beaten until it's creamy and light. Powdered sugar, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt are then incorporated, followed by heavy cream to reach your preferred consistency. The final result is a versatile, delectable frosting that's sure to be a hit on any dessert. Happy baking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? No, it is recommended to use unsalted butter in this recipe so that you have control over the saltiness of the frosting. If you use salted butter, the frosting may become too salty.
  2. Can I substitute another type of sugar for powdered sugar? Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners' sugar, is best for achieving the desired texture and consistency of buttercream frosting. Other types of sugar, such as granulated sugar, may result in a grainy texture.
  3. How can I store leftover buttercream frosting? Leftover buttercream frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip with a mixer to restore its creamy texture.
  4. Can I freeze buttercream frosting? Yes, buttercream frosting can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to remove any excess air. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and re-whip it before using to ensure a smooth consistency.
  5. Can I add flavorings or colorings to the buttercream frosting? Absolutely! You can add different extracts such as almond or lemon to add unique flavors. Food coloring can also be added in small amounts to achieve the desired color.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
  • Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer - A mixer to beat the butter and sugar together until creamy.
  • Sifter - A tool to sift the powdered sugar and remove any lumps.
  • Measuring Cups - To measure the butter and powdered sugar accurately.
  • Measuring Spoons - To measure the vanilla extract and salt precisely.
  • Heavy Cream - Used to adjust the consistency of the frosting.
  • Spatula - A utensil to scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are well combined.
  • Piping Bag and Tips - If you want to pipe the frosting onto cakes or cupcakes, these tools are helpful for creating decorative designs.

Origin stories

Buttercream, the creamy, sweet companion to our beloved cakes and pastries, traces its roots back to Europe with different regions having their own variations. The French buttercream, for instance, is enriched with egg yolks, while the Swiss version uses whipped egg whites for a light, fluffy texture. The American buttercream, the type we most often encounter on birthday cakes and cupcakes, is a more straightforward combination of butter and powdered sugar, allowing for a stiffer texture ideal for decorative piping. Throughout its history, buttercream has played an integral role in making our celebrations a bit sweeter. Next time you enjoy a slice of cake adorned with this delightful frosting, remember that you are partaking in a tradition that has added joy to countless occasions for centuries.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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