This classic cream cheese frosting strikes the perfect balance between rich, creamy indulgence and subtle sweetness. Quick to whip up in just 7 minutes, it’s the ideal companion for everything from carrot cake to red velvet cupcakes. With its smooth, velvety texture and decadent flavor profile, this foolproof recipe delivers professional bakery results right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, ensure it’s softened at room temperature for smooth blending
- Butter: 1/2 cup, softened at room temperature for perfect consistency
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, adds delightful flavor depth
- Powdered Sugar: 3 1/2 cups, sift if needed for extra smoothness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cream the Base: Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until perfectly smooth and well combined (about 2 minutes)
- Add Flavor: Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated
- Sugar Integration: Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly between additions
- Final Beating: Beat the frosting for several additional minutes until it reaches a fluffy, creamy consistency
- Usage Tips: Perfect for frosting cakes, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, and various cookie creations
Mixing Tips
Want the silkiest, dreamiest frosting? Start with room temperature ingredients – this makes such a difference! Let your cream cheese and butter sit out for about an hour before mixing. When beating the ingredients, scrape down the sides of your bowl every now and then. A little extra time spent beating (around 4-5 minutes total) creates that perfectly smooth, cloud-like texture everyone loves.
Variations
Love trying new flavors? Add a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla, or mix in some lemon zest for a citrusy kick. For chocolate cream cheese frosting, blend in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder. Want it less sweet? Start with 2 cups of powdered sugar and add more to taste. You can also make it extra fancy with a tiny pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of your favorite extract.
Storage Tips
This frosting keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Just bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whip before using. You can even freeze it for up to 3 months – perfect for making ahead! When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then let it come to room temperature and beat until smooth and creamy again.
Serving Ideas
This frosting is so versatile! Spread it thick on carrot cake, swirl it on red velvet cupcakes, or dollop it on warm cinnamon rolls. It’s amazing on banana bread, pumpkin bars, or even sandwiched between two soft cookies. For a pretty finish, sprinkle some colored sugar, nuts, or chocolate shavings on top!
Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- Electric mixer
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Mix in vanilla.
- Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well.
- For best results, beat frosting for several minutes, to make it extra smooth and fluffy/creamy in texture.
- Use to frost cakes, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, cookies and cookie bars.
