Ultimate Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
This Ultimate Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is the perfect topping for any cake or cupcake, ensuring a sweet and creamy finish. Inspired by Gale Gand's original recipe, this frosting is smooth and has a rich vanilla flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate, vanilla, or any flavored cake. The addition of whipping cream grants the frosting a light and airy texture, making it easy to spread or pipe. It's versatile enough to decorate grand layer cakes or delicate cupcakes. This recipe makes enough frosting to generously adorn a double-layer 9-inch cake, or you can simply use it on cupcakes for your next celebration. Mix and match with your favorite flavors to create irresistible treats!
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Confectioners' sugar
3 cups (sifted)
Butter
1 cup (softened at room temperature)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (clear vanilla extract for a whiter frosting)
Whipping cream
1-2 tablespoons (as needed)
Instructions
1
In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the confectioners' sugar and softened butter.
2
Begin mixing on low speed to prevent the sugar from flying out, then gradually increase to medium speed.
3
Beat the mixture for about 3 minutes until it is light and fluffy.
4
Next, add the clear vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of whipping cream.
5
Continue to beat on medium speed for another minute. If the frosting is too thick, add another tablespoon of whipping cream until you achieve your desired spreading consistency.
Nutrition Information
18g
Fat
32g
Carbs
0.4g
Protein
30g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ultimate Vanilla Buttercream Frosting?
It is a sweet and creamy topping inspired by Gale Gand's original recipe, perfect for cakes and cupcakes.
How much confectioners' sugar is required for this recipe?
You will need 3 cups of sifted confectioners' sugar.
What amount of butter should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of butter softened at room temperature.
Why is clear vanilla extract recommended?
Clear vanilla extract is used to ensure the buttercream frosting remains as white as possible.
How much whipping cream is added to the frosting?
You should add 1 to 2 tablespoons of whipping cream as needed for consistency.
What equipment is best for mixing this frosting?
A stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment is recommended for the best results.
How long should I beat the butter and sugar mixture?
You should beat the mixture for about 3 minutes until it is light and fluffy.
What is the first step in making the frosting?
Combine the confectioners' sugar and softened butter in your mixer.
What speed should I use when starting the mixer?
Begin mixing on low speed to prevent the sugar from flying out of the bowl.
How do I achieve a light and airy texture?
The addition of whipping cream and thorough beating grants the frosting its airy texture.
What should I do if the frosting is too thick?
Add another tablespoon of whipping cream until you reach your desired spreading consistency.
Is this frosting suitable for chocolate cakes?
Yes, the rich vanilla flavor pairs beautifully with chocolate, vanilla, or any flavored cake.
How much cake will this recipe frost?
This recipe makes enough to generously adorn a double-layer 9-inch cake.
Can I use this frosting for cupcakes?
Absolutely, it is versatile enough for both grand layer cakes and delicate cupcakes.
What are the nutritional calories per serving?
There are approximately 300 calories per serving.
How much fat is in this frosting?
There are 18 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
The frosting contains 32 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much sugar is in one serving?
Each serving contains 30 grams of sugar.
How much protein does the frosting have?
The frosting contains 0.4 grams of protein per serving.
Is the butter used cold or softened?
The butter should be softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
When do I add the vanilla extract?
Add the vanilla extract after the initial 3 minutes of beating the butter and sugar.
Can I pipe this frosting?
Yes, the smooth and light texture makes it very easy to pipe onto desserts.
Is this recipe suitable for celebrations?
Yes, it is tagged for celebrations and is perfect for festive cake decorations.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 4 main ingredients: sugar, butter, vanilla, and whipping cream.
Can I change the flavor of the buttercream?
Yes, you can mix and match with your favorite flavors to create different treats.
What preparation is needed for the sugar?
The confectioners' sugar should be sifted before use.
How long do I mix after adding the cream?
Continue to beat on medium speed for another minute after adding the cream.
Does this frosting contain sodium?
The provided nutritional data does not list sodium content.
Is there fiber in this buttercream?
No, this recipe contains null fiber content.
What is the main flavor profile of this frosting?
It has a rich and sweet vanilla flavor with a smooth, buttery finish.