Buttercream Frosting
This homemade buttercream frosting recipe is rich, fluffy, silky smooth, and perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and brownies. Made with simple pantry ingredients like butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, this easy American buttercream comes together in just 10 minutes. Learn how to create bakery-style smooth cakes with professional decorating tips, flavor variations, and make-ahead instructions for the ultimate frosting recipe.
Equipment
- Standing mixer recommended
- Hand Beater
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsalted butter softened (4 sticks)
- 7-8 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 4 tbsp heavy cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ΒΌ tsp salt
Instructions
- Add softened butter to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
- Beat on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes until the butter becomes pale and fluffy.
- Slowly add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.
- Add vanilla extract, salt, and heavy cream.
- Increase mixer speed to medium-high and beat for another 4 to 5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Scrape down the bowl several times during mixing.
- If needed, add an extra tablespoon of cream for a softer consistency or additional powdered sugar for a stiffer frosting.
Notes
This recipe makes approximately:
Servings Per Recipe: 24 servings
Estimated nutrition values may vary depending on brands used.
- Frosting for 24 cupcakes
- One 9-inch two-layer cake
- One 9x13 cake
- Light crumb coat plus decorative piping
Nutritional Value Card
Serving Size: Approximately 2 tablespoons frostingServings Per Recipe: 24 servings
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 31 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 38 mg |
| Sodium | 32 mg |
| Sugar | 30 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Calcium | 10 mg |
| Potassium | 18 mg |
| Vitamin A | 470 IU |