Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Introduction
This perfect cream cheese frosting is smooth, creamy, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy. It’s ideal for topping cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, adding a deliciously rich finish to your baked treats.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup salted butter (softened)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter for 1 minute, until light and fluffy.
- Step 2: Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined, about 10 seconds.
- Step 3: Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing between additions until the frosting is smooth.
- Step 4: Use immediately to frost cooled cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Tips & Variations
- For a tangier flavor, use plain cream cheese without softened butter.
- If the frosting is too soft, chill it for 15-20 minutes before using.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest for a subtle twist.
- Use powdered sugar sifted to avoid lumps in the frosting.
Storage
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Frosted baked goods should also be refrigerated and are best consumed within 3-4 days. Before serving, let chilled frosting come to room temperature and lightly stir to restore creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this frosting dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How do I prevent the frosting from becoming too runny?
Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted. If the frosting becomes too soft, refrigerate it briefly to firm up before use.
PrintPerfect Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
This Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting is a smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy frosting that pairs beautifully with cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Made with softened cream cheese and butter, it combines richness with a subtly sweet flavor, enhanced by vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Ideal for spreading or piping, this frosting adds a decadent, velvety finish to your baked treats.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Enough frosting to generously cover one 9-inch cake or 24 cupcakes
- Category: Frosting
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a medium mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened salted butter for 1 minute until the mixture turns light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth base for your frosting.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Blend in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined, which takes about 10 seconds. This adds a delicate flavor to the frosting.
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar Gradually: Slowly add 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time. Mix well between each addition until the frosting is smooth and free of lumps.
- Use or Store Frosting: Immediately use the frosting to decorate cooled cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. If storing, keep the frosting or frosted goods refrigerated to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth blending.
- Use sifted powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the frosting.
- Frosting is best applied to completely cooled baked goods to prevent melting.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Bring refrigerated frosting back to room temperature and re-whip before using if it has thickened.
Keywords: cream cheese frosting, frosting recipe, cake frosting, easy frosting, cream cheese buttercream
