Description
This best cream cheese frosting recipe yields a smooth, creamy, and fluffy frosting perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. Made with softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, it is quick and easy to prepare, providing a rich and tangy complement to your baked goods.
Ingredients
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup salted butter (softened)
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (softened)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon milk or cream (for thinning)
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese and Butter: Allow the cream cheese and butter to come to room temperature to ensure they blend easily and smoothly.
- Whip the Butter and Cream Cheese: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy, creating a light texture for your frosting.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Incorporate the powdered sugar gradually, adding one cup at a time while mixing on low speed to avoid a powdery mess. After all the sugar is blended in, increase the mixer speed to medium-high and whip for 2 to 3 more minutes to achieve a fluffy consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste thoroughly.
- Taste and Adjust Consistency: If the frosting feels too thick for your liking, add a teaspoon of milk or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, sprinkle in a little more powdered sugar to thicken the frosting.
- Store the Frosting: Keep the cream cheese frosting covered in the refrigerator until ready to use. For best results, allow it to come to room temperature slightly before frosting your desserts.
Notes
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the frosting.
- Use cream cheese and butter that are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust powdered sugar quantity depending on desired sweetness and frosting thickness.
- This frosting pairs wonderfully with carrot cake, red velvet cake, and vanilla cupcakes.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Frosting
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
