Ultimate Creamy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
After years of experimenting with numerous buttercream frosting recipes, I've finally perfected this creamy vanilla buttercream that stands out among the rest. This frosting achieves a delightful balance of sweetness and buttery richness, making it an ideal choice for simple cakes and professional-looking desserts alike. Not only is it easy to spread, but it also holds its shape beautifully for piping. This recipe yields enough frosting to generously cover two 8-inch layers of cake, making it perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any day that calls for a sweet treat!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
6 tablespoons (softened to room temperature)
Milk or Cream
1/4 cup (none)
Vanilla Extract
2 teaspoons (none)
Salt
1 pinch (none)
Confectioners' Sugar
3 1/4 cups (sifted)
Bittersweet Chocolate Squares
2 (melted (optional))
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
2
Add the milk (or cream), vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl, and mix on medium speed until well combined.
3
Gradually add the confectioners' sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
4
Once all the sugar is incorporated, increase the mixer speed to high and beat the mixture for 3-5 minutes until it is thick, creamy, and fluffy.
5
If desired, melt the bittersweet chocolate in a double boiler until smooth. Allow to cool slightly before drizzling over the frosted cake.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this frosting recipe?
The recipe is for Ultimate Creamy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting.
How much frosting does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields enough frosting to generously cover two 8-inch layers of cake.
How long should I beat the butter initially?
You should beat the softened butter for about 1-2 minutes until it is creamy and smooth.
What liquids can be used for this buttercream?
You can use either milk or cream.
How much vanilla extract is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Why is salt added to the frosting?
A pinch of salt is added to achieve a delightful balance of sweetness and buttery richness.
How should the confectioners' sugar be added?
Add the sugar gradually, about 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
How do I prevent a 'sugar cloud' while mixing?
Mixing on low speed while adding the sugar helps prevent a sugar cloud from forming.
How long should the mixture be beaten once the sugar is incorporated?
Increase the speed to high and beat the mixture for 3-5 minutes until it is thick, creamy, and fluffy.
Is this frosting suitable for piping?
Yes, it holds its shape beautifully for piping and is also easy to spread.
Is the chocolate drizzle mandatory?
No, the bittersweet chocolate squares are an optional addition for drizzling over the cake.
How much butter is required?
The recipe requires 6 tablespoons of butter.
What is the required preparation for the butter?
The butter should be softened to room temperature.
How much confectioners' sugar is used?
You will need 3 1/4 cups of confectioners' sugar.
Should the confectioners' sugar be sifted?
Yes, the sugar should be sifted for the best results.
What type of chocolate is recommended for the drizzle?
The recipe recommends using 2 bittersweet chocolate squares.
How should the chocolate be melted?
The chocolate should be melted in a double boiler until smooth.
Can this frosting be used for professional-looking desserts?
Yes, it is designed to look professional and work well for both simple and complex cakes.
Is this frosting easy to spread?
Yes, it is described as being very easy to spread over cakes.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 total ingredients, including the optional chocolate.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to beat the softened butter in a medium bowl with an electric mixer for 1-2 minutes.
When do I add the milk and vanilla?
Add the milk, vanilla, and salt after the butter has been beaten smooth, but before adding the sugar.
Should I scrape down the sides of the bowl?
Yes, you should scrape down the sides as necessary while adding the sugar.
What mixer speed is used for the final stage?
The mixer should be set to high speed for the final 3-5 minutes of beating.
What should I do after melting the chocolate?
Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling it over the frosted cake.
Is this frosting good for birthdays?
Yes, it is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any sweet treat occasion.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include buttercream frosting, vanilla frosting, cake decoration, and homemade frosting.
How much milk or cream is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of milk or cream.
What kind of mixer is recommended?
An electric mixer is recommended for the best results.
Is this recipe easy to follow?
Yes, the instructions are straightforward and designed for success.