Make a classic, smooth, and fluffy American vanilla buttercream frosting in under ten minutes, perfect for piping decorations on cakes and cupcakes.
Author:Marco Fontaine
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:10 min
Yield:About 3 cups
Category:Dessert Topping
Method:Mixing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Place the softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Increase the speed to medium-low and beat until combined.
Add the vanilla extract and the pinch of salt. Mix well.
Add the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, beating on medium speed until you reach your desired consistency. If you want a stiffer frosting for piping, use less liquid. If you want a softer frosting for spreading, use more liquid.
Once the liquid is added, increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 to 5 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth. This whipping time is key to removing any graininess.
Use immediately for frosting cakes or cupcakes.
Notes
For the smoothest texture, ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted. Cold butter will result in lumps.
Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps in the final product.
If the frosting seems too soft after mixing, chill it for 10 minutes before using it for piping.
To make a stable buttercream for warm weather, substitute 1/4 cup of the butter with vegetable shortening.