Make a classic, smooth, and fluffy American buttercream frosting that holds its shape well for decorating cakes and cupcakes. This recipe is quick and uses basic ingredients.
Author:Jen Rwanda
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 unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Place the softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it is light and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated after each addition.
Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium speed for another 2 minutes until the frosting is smooth.
If the frosting seems too stiff, add the remaining tablespoon of cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired spreading or piping consistency.
If the frosting is too soft, add a small amount of additional sifted powdered sugar until firm enough.
Notes
For the smoothest results, ensure your butter is truly at room temperature, not melted.
Sift the powdered sugar before measuring to prevent lumps in your final frosting.
If the frosting appears yellow, use a higher quality, lighter colored butter.
To make the frosting stiffer for detailed piping, reduce the amount of liquid slightly.