Description
This homemade cream cheese frosting is a rich and creamy topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. Made with softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and sweetened with confectioners sugar, it has a smooth texture with a hint of vanilla and just the right balance of sweetness. Easy to prepare in under 10 minutes, this frosting whips up light and fluffy, making it ideal for spreading or piping.
Ingredients
Frosting Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 5 cups confectioners sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Dash of salt
- 3-4 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Beat butter and cream cheese: Place the softened butter and cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined, about 1 minute.
- Add confectioners sugar: Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly add the confectioners sugar. Continue beating until the sugar is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth, about 3 minutes. Stop the mixer and use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides and paddle to ensure even mixing.
- Mix in vanilla and salt: Add the vanilla extract and a dash of salt to the bowl. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly into the frosting.
- Add milk gradually: Pour in the milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency.
- Whip until fluffy: Increase the mixer speed to high and beat the frosting until it becomes light and fluffy, perfect for spreading or piping onto your desserts.
Notes
- Make sure both butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Adjust the amount of milk to achieve desired consistency – use less for thicker frosting and more for a thinner spread.
- Store unused frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before use.
- This frosting pairs wonderfully with carrot cake, red velvet cake, and cinnamon rolls.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
