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Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

5.3 from 6 reviews

This smooth and creamy Cream Cheese Frosting is a classic topping perfect for cakes and cupcakes. Made with softened butter, brick-style cream cheese, vanilla, and powdered sugar, it offers a rich, tangy flavor balanced by sweetness and a luscious texture that spreads beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale

Frosting Ingredients

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (113g)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (brick-style, not spreadable) (226g)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups powdered sugar (500g)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base mixture: Combine the softened butter and brick-style cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer or use an electric hand mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is creamy, well-combined, and free of lumps, ensuring a smooth frosting base.
  2. Add flavorings: Pour in the vanilla extract and sprinkle in the salt. Mix on medium speed again until everything is thoroughly incorporated, enhancing the frosting’s flavor depth.
  3. Incorporate powdered sugar: Lower the mixer speed to low and gradually add the powdered sugar in small increments. Continue mixing until the sugar is completely combined and the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
  4. Frost the cake or cupcakes: Use the cream cheese frosting immediately to frost fully cooled cakes or cupcakes. Spread evenly with a spatula for a beautiful finish.

Notes

  • Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the frosting.
  • Use brick-style cream cheese for best texture and flavor, not the pre-spreadable kind.
  • If the frosting is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before using.
  • For a sweeter frosting, you can add an extra ½ cup of powdered sugar as desired.
  • This frosting is best used within 2 days when kept refrigerated in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Keywords: cream cheese frosting, cream cheese icing, buttercream frosting, cake frosting, cupcake icing