Description
This Perfect Vanilla Frosting recipe yields a creamy, fluffy, and rich vanilla-flavored frosting ideal for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and other baked desserts. Made with cold unsalted butter, powdered sugar, pure vanilla extract, and heavy whipping cream, it whips up smoothly to a light texture perfect for spreading or piping.
Ingredients
Butter
- 1 1/2 cups (339 g) (3 sticks) unsalted butter, cold
Dry Ingredients
- 5 cups (650 g) powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) heavy whipping cream (or milk)
Instructions
- Prepare the Butter: Cut the cold unsalted butter into pieces. Using the paddle attachment on your mixer, whip the butter for 5-7 minutes, scraping down the bowl occasionally. Beat until the butter is light in color and texture, indicating it is well aerated.
- Add First Portion of Sugar and Vanilla: Add 2 cups of powdered sugar to the whipped butter. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated. Next, add the pure vanilla extract and mix to combine. Beat the mixture for about 60 seconds to blend the flavors thoroughly.
- Add Second Portion of Sugar: Add another 2 cups of powdered sugar. Beat on low speed until the sugar is incorporated into the mixture. Then increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes to further aerate the frosting, giving it a smooth and fluffy texture.
- Add Final Ingredients and Whip: Add the remaining 1 cup of powdered sugar along with the heavy whipping cream and a pinch of salt if desired. Beat on low speed initially until the ingredients start to come together. Then increase the speed to medium-high and beat for an additional 3-5 minutes. This final whipping incorporates air to achieve a light, fluffy, and spreadable frosting perfect for decorating.
Notes
- Use cold unsalted butter for best consistency and to help the frosting hold its shape better.
- The heavy whipping cream can be substituted with milk but may result in a slightly less rich texture.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet frosting.
- For a saltier balance, add the pinch of salt, but this is optional.
- Ensure all mixing is done with a paddle attachment to avoid overbeating and potential graininess.
