If you’re a fan of sweet treats, you know that the right frosting can make all the difference in turning a simple dessert into a showstopper. Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is a classic choice that never fails to impress. Its rich, creamy texture and luscious vanilla flavor complement cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a simple yet delicious recipe for homemade vanilla buttercream frosting to elevate your baked goods.
What is Vanilla Buttercream Frosting?
American vanilla buttercream is a combination of butter, confectioners sugar (or powdered sugar), and a little milk or cream to lighten the texture with vanilla and salt for flavor. Most American buttercreams are overly sweet, but after making this recipe over the years, I came up with the perfect combination of butter and powdered sugar and some tips for achieving the best buttercream texture.
Tools you need:
- Stand or Hand Mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
To begin, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter at room temperature
- 4 1/2 to 5 cups powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt (adjust to taste)
- 4 teaspoons clear vanilla flavoring
- 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions:
Start by preparing your mixing equipment. If you have a stand mixer, attach the whisk or paddle attachment. If not, a handheld electric mixer will work just fine. Ensure that the butter is at room temperature for easy whipping.
Place the unsalted butter in the bowl of your stand mixer or a mixing bowl if using a handheld electric mixer. Beat the butter on high speed for approximately 5 minutes or until it becomes lightened in color and has a whipped consistency. Remember to occasionally scrape down the bowl’s sides to ensure even mixing.
While the butter is whipped, sift 4 1/2 to 5 cups of powdered sugar. Sifting helps remove any lumps and ensures a smooth and velvety frosting. Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low and gradually add powdered sugar, about one heaping tablespoon at a time. Allow each addition to fully incorporate before adding more. The amount of powdered sugar can be adjusted to your desired level of sweetness.
Once the powdered sugar is fully incorporated, it’s time to enhance the flavor. Add 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt, or adjust to taste. The salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out the flavors in the frosting. Follow this with four teaspoons of vanilla and continue beating until the ingredients are well incorporated.
To achieve the perfect consistency, add three tablespoons of heavy cream or whole milk, one tablespoon at a time. Start with three tablespoons and add more if needed to reach your desired texture. The cream or milk adds moisture and creaminess to the frosting. Continue beating for approximately one more minute to ensure a whipped and well-combined frosting.
How to Add Color to Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
A white vanilla buttercream base is perfect for adding color because it doesn’t compete with other colors. If you plan to color the buttercream, start with a thicker frosting (add little or no cream at the end since the color can thin the frosting slightly).
- Set aside the amount of frosting you want to color in a separate dish.
- Add 1-2 drops at a time, depending on the frosting quantity, then stir and add more as needed. Wilton has a great guide to achieving the right color.
Gel Color is best because it is thicker and more concentrated than liquid food coloring. You can add more color before your frosting gets too thin. I recommend the Wilton Color Right 8-piece (a great starter kit) or the Americolor 12-piece set (if you want more unique shades). Both sets work well for adding color to frostings.
How to Add Different Flavors to Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- To make flavored buttercream, stir in your desired flavorings at the end of mixing. Try these mix-ins:
- Chocolate Buttercream: Add 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, or add to taste.
- Raspberry or Strawberry Buttercream: Add 1/2 cup seedless preserves and red food coloring for a deeper color.
Can I Make Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Ahead?
If you aren’t using it immediately, you can refrigerate buttercream frosting in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use the frosting, follow these steps:
- Thaw if frozen – Allow the buttercream frosting to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Room Temperature – let the chilled frosting come to room temperature or until no longer firm.
- Stir – use a spatula to fold and soften the frosting before using it.
In Conclusion:
And there you have it! A delectable vanilla buttercream frosting ready to adorn your favorite baked goods. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be used to frost cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or any other delightful treat you desire. It’s also an excellent base for adding additional flavors or colors, allowing you to get creative with your decorations.
Whether celebrating a special occasion, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this homemade vanilla buttercream frosting will satisfy your dessert cravings. Its velvety smoothness and delightful vanilla aroma will leave you wanting more.
So, grab your mixer, gather your ingredients, and let your imagination run wild as you create delectable desserts with this mouthwatering vanilla buttercream frosting. Your taste buds will thank you, and your friends and family will be coming back for seconds!
This is Renee “Doing what I Love”
Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
- 1½ cups unsalted butter at room temperature
- 4½ to 5 cups powdered sugar adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp fine salt adjust to taste
- 4 tsp vanilla extract
- 3-4 tbsp heavy cream or whole milk adjust for desired consistency
Instructions
- Start by preparing your mixing equipment. If you have a stand mixer, attach the whisk or paddle attachment. If not, a handheld electric mixer will work just fine. Ensure that the butter is at room temperature for easy whipping.
- Place the unsalted butter in the bowl of your stand mixer or a mixing bowl if using a handheld electric mixer. Beat the butter on high speed for approximately 5 minutes or until it becomes lightened in color and has a whipped consistency. Remember to occasionally scrape down the bowl's sides to ensure even mixing.
- While the butter is whipped, sift 4 1/2 to 5 cups of powdered sugar. Sifting helps remove any lumps and ensures a smooth and velvety frosting. Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low and gradually add powdered sugar, about one heaping tablespoon at a time. Allow each addition to fully incorporate before adding more. The amount of powdered sugar can be adjusted to your desired level of sweetness.
- Once the powdered sugar is fully incorporated, it's time to enhance the flavor. Add 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt, or adjust to taste. The salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out the flavors in the frosting. Follow this with four teaspoons of vanilla and continue beating until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- To achieve the perfect consistency, add three tablespoons of heavy cream or whole milk, one tablespoon at a time. Start with three tablespoons and add more if needed to reach your desired texture. The cream or milk adds moisture and creaminess to the frosting. Continue beating for approximately one more minute to ensure a whipped and well-combined frosting.
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