Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
  1. With a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add 4 and ½ cups confectioners’ sugar, the heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 2 full minutes. Taste. Add a pinch of salt if frosting is too sweet. I always add ⅛ teaspoon.

  2. You can control the consistency at this point—add up to ½ cup more confectioners’ sugar if frosting is too thin or more heavy cream if frosting is too thick (add only 1 Tablespoon at a time, beat together, then taste and add more if desired).

  3. Use immediately or cover tightly and store for up to 1 week in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer. After freezing, thaw in the refrigerator then beat the frosting on medium speed for a few seconds so it’s creamy again. After thawing or refrigerating, beating in a splash of heavy cream or milk will help thin the frosting out again, if needed.

Course🍰Dessert

Diets🥕Vegetarian🌾Gluten-free...

Category🧁Frosting

Cuisine🇺🇸American

Occasions🥖Baking🎉Celebration

Season🔁Year-round

DifficultyEasy ⏰ 15m

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