Best Vanilla Frosting
This Best Vanilla Frosting is smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced! Ideal for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, it’s easy to whip up and delightful every time.
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1.75 - 2 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Ensure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature but not melted. Place the butter in your mixing bowl and beat it with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and pale, about 2-3 minutes.
- Sift the powdered sugar to remove any clumps. Gradually add 1.75 cups of the powdered sugar to the butter, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Increase to medium speed and beat until fluffy. Add remaining powdered sugar if needed for sweetness and consistency.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and blend it thoroughly into the frosting.
- Pour in 1 tablespoon of heavy whipping cream and beat the frosting on medium-high speed for about 30 seconds. Add more cream by teaspoon increments if frosting is too stiff.
- Give the frosting one last whip on high speed for a few seconds to ensure it’s light and fluffy. The frosting is now ready to spread, pipe, or dollop on baked goods.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Sifter
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Notes
- Substitute half the butter with cream cheese for a lighter, tangier frosting.
- Use vanilla bean paste instead of extract for richer vanilla flavor with specks.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and coconut cream.
- Mix in gel food coloring to customize the frosting color.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge up to one week or freeze up to three months.