We all need a quick and easy buttercream frosting recipe that is versatile for multiple desserts! This is it! I use this recipe for spreading on cakes, piping on cupcakes and filling macarons. The texture is perfect and easily adjusted if you want to add a new and unique flavor. The recipe is pretty straight forward so if you want to jump on down to the recipe that is great, but I will share a few tips and tricks with as well!
The Base
With all buttercream recipes you start with the butter! I prefer to used salted butter, but if you don’t have that on hand just add a tsp of salt to the recipe. You will want your butter to be room temperature. This allows the other ingredients to mix in smoothly. Add your 2 sticks to the mixer and mix on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes. Once the butter is smooth, you will slowly add in your powdered sugar.
Turn the mixer down to slow or you will be covered in powdered sugar! Continue to add the powdered sugar until all 4 cups are in. Next, you will add in your heavy cream. Milk also works great if you don’t have heavy cream. I personally think the cream gives a richer taste. As the cream gets incorporated, you can start turning up the mixer. A little secret… sometimes I will alternate the powdered sugar and cream for a faster process.
The flavor
The final ingredients that will be added will give you all the flavor. If you want simple vanilla, you can stop at 2 tablespoons of vanilla. If you want to add a spin on the flavor add 1 teaspoon of almond extract, or my favorite: coconut. Depending on your extract you may need a little more, but start with 1 teaspoon and add until the desired taste is reached. Finally, let the frosting mix on medium/high until the consistency is light, fluffy and creamy. If you want to color your frosting, add a few drops of color in at this time! For more great dessert recipes check out my sweet treats!
Best Buttercream Frosting
Equipment
- 1 stand mixer
- 1 set measuring spoons
- 1 set measuring cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter 2 sticks
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp heavy cream can substitute with milk
- 2 tbsp vanilla
- 1 tsp almond extract can exchange for other flavors
Instructions
- Add 1 cup room temperature butter to stand mixer with flat beater attachment
- Turn mixer on to medium speed until butter is smooth. about 1-2 minutes
- Slowly add powdered sugar, one cup at a time and allowing the sugar to incorporate with the butter before adding more
- Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream
- Add 2 tablespoons of vanilla
- Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract (or other flavoring of your choice)
- Mix on medium high until fluffy and smooth
