Best Classic Cream Cheese Frosting
Make a smooth, rich, and tangy cream cheese frosting quickly. This recipe yields a stable frosting perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cinnamon rolls.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 10 min
- Yield: About 3 cups
- Category: Dessert Topping
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 8 ounces (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Place the softened butter and softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth. Do not overmix once fully combined.
- If the frosting is too soft for piping, chill it for 10 to 15 minutes before using. If it is too stiff, add 1 teaspoon of milk or heavy cream and beat briefly.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to prevent lumps. Ensure both the butter and cream cheese are soft but not melted.
- Sifting the powdered sugar is necessary for a smooth, lump-free texture.
- For a tangier flavor, you can slightly reduce the powdered sugar or add 1/2 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice.
- This frosting holds its shape well for piping when slightly chilled.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 55
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 58
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 75