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Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

4.9 from 68 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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