This is the foolproof recipe for ultra-smooth vanilla buttercream frosting. You will achieve a creamy, fluffy texture perfect for coating cakes or piping decorations, ready in under 15 minutes.
Author:michaelcarter
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:10 min
Yield:About 3 cups1x
Category:Dessert Topping
Method:Mixing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3 1/2 cups (420g) powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Instructions
Place the softened butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition.
Add the vanilla extract and salt. Mix on low speed until incorporated.
Increase the mixer speed to medium-high. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat for 3 to 5 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth. This whipping time is key for a non-grainy texture.
If the frosting seems too stiff for spreading, add the remaining cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it is too soft, add a few more tablespoons of sifted powdered sugar.
Use immediately for topping cakes or piping decorations.
Notes
For the smoothest results, always use room temperature butter; cold butter will result in lumps.
Sifting the powdered sugar prevents graininess in your final frosting.
If your kitchen is warm, chill the finished buttercream for 10 minutes before piping to help it hold sharp edges.