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Easy Cake Frosting Recipe: Creamy Homemade Vanilla Buttercream

Easy Vanilla Cake Frosting

This quick homemade buttercream is creamy, fluffy, and dependable for cakes and cupcakes. It spreads easily, pipes beautifully, and needs only a handful of everyday ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups Powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon Fine salt
  • 3 tablespoons Heavy cream or whole milk

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Place the softened butter in a large mixing bowl and beat on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes, until pale, smooth, and creamy.
  2. Add the powdered sugar gradually, mixing on low speed after each addition to prevent a cloud of sugar. Once incorporated, increase the speed and beat until the frosting looks light and fluffy.
  3. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and 2 tablespoons of cream or milk. Beat for another 2 minutes, then adjust the texture with the remaining liquid as needed.
  4. Taste the frosting and adjust with a pinch more salt, a little extra vanilla, or a spoonful of powdered sugar. Spread immediately over a completely cooled cake or chill briefly if a firmer texture is preferred.

Notes

Use room-temperature butter for the smoothest texture, and add liquid one teaspoon at a time when adjusting consistency. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Bring chilled frosting to room temperature and beat briefly before using.