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The Best Classic American Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Close-up of a vanilla cupcake topped with perfectly piped, creamy vanilla buttercream frosting.
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Make this easy homemade frosting for creamy, fluffy vanilla buttercream frosting perfect for cakes and cupcakes. This no-cook buttercream recipe is simple to whip up and holds its shape well for piping consistency.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or use a large bowl with a hand mixer). Beat the butter on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. This prevents a sugar cloud in your kitchen.
  3. Once all the sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla extract and salt. Mix on low speed until combined.
  4. Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 to 5 minutes. You are whipping air into the frosting to make it light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl halfway through this whipping time.
  5. Check the consistency. If the vanilla buttercream frosting is too stiff for spreading or piping, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired smooth buttercream texture.
  6. If the frosting seems too soft or runny, add 1/4 cup more sifted powdered sugar and beat for one minute to firm it up.
  7. Use immediately to frost your cakes or cupcakes. This classic American buttercream is ready for decorating.

Notes

  • Room temperature butter is crucial for smooth buttercream. If your butter is too cold, the frosting will be lumpy. If it is melted, the frosting will be greasy.
  • For the best flavor, use pure vanilla extract, not imitation.
  • If you need a very stiff vanilla frosting for piping detailed designs, reduce the liquid (cream/milk) slightly and ensure your butter is cool, but still pliable.
  • To make this frosting whiter, substitute the vanilla extract with clear vanilla extract.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastytipster.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe/