Description
Classic American Buttercream Frosting is a smooth, fluffy, and creamy frosting perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other baked treats. Made with unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and heavy cream, this buttercream is easy to whip up in about 10 minutes and offers a sweet, rich flavor that can be piped beautifully.
Ingredients
Buttercream Frosting Ingredients
- 226 g Unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 360 g Powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 3 tablespoons Heavy cream (36% fat content)
Instructions
- Prepare Butter: Bring your unsalted butter to room temperature to ensure it is soft but not melted. This is crucial as buttercream requires softened butter for the right texture.
- Set Up Mixer: Attach the paddle attachment to a stand mixer or use an electric hand mixer for best results.
- Cream Butter: Beat the softened butter on medium-high speed for 3 minutes until it becomes lighter in color and fluffy in texture.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once all sugar is incorporated, whip on medium-high speed for 4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and has increased in volume.
- Add Flavors and Cream: Add vanilla extract, salt, and heavy cream. Continue whipping for one more minute until the frosting is smooth and silky.
- Adjust Consistency: If frosting is too thick, add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time; if too thin, add powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time to reach desired pipeable fluffy texture.
- Use or Store: Use the buttercream immediately for best texture. It can be stored at room temperature in a piping bag for a few hours. If refrigerated, bring back to room temperature and whip again for 1-2 minutes before use.
Notes
- Ensure butter is exactly at room temperature – neither cold nor melted.
- Sifting powdered sugar avoids lumps and creates a smoother frosting.
- Use a stand mixer or hand mixer for best fluffy texture.
- The frosting is ideal for piping and decorating cakes and cupcakes.
- If storing leftover frosting, re-whip after refrigeration for best consistency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
