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The Best Classic American Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

A waffle cone filled with a generous swirl of creamy, white vanilla buttercream frosting.
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You can make this creamy, smooth, and fluffy vanilla buttercream frosting quickly. It is the best buttercream for cakes and holds its shape well for piping decorations on cupcakes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is light and creamy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated after each addition.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of 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 until the vanilla buttercream frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth. This whipping time is key for texture.
  5. If the frosting seems too stiff for spreading or piping, add the remaining tablespoon of cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency for smooth buttercream.
  6. If the frosting is too soft, add a little more sifted powdered sugar, one quarter cup at a time, until it firms up.
  7. Use this homemade vanilla frosting immediately for decorating cakes and cupcakes.

Notes

  • Make sure your butter is truly at room temperature, not melted. This is essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture in your vanilla buttercream frosting.
  • For the best flavor, use high-quality pure vanilla extract.
  • If you need a stiffer buttercream frosting piping consistency, reduce the amount of liquid slightly or add a little more powdered sugar.
  • If the frosting separates or looks curdled after adding the liquid, continue beating on high speed; it often comes back together into a smooth buttercream.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorvista.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-home/