why make this recipe
This cream cheese frosting is simply the best! It’s creamy, smooth, and has the perfect sweetness to complement many desserts. Whether you are frosting a cake, cupcakes, or cookies, this frosting is a crowd-pleaser. It adds a rich, tangy flavor that enhances your baked treats, making them unforgettable.
how to make The BEST Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients:
- 3/4 stick (85 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups (188 grams) powdered sugar, sifted
- 6 ounces (170 grams) cream cheese, completely softened to room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract
Directions:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sifted powdered sugar on low. Gradually increase the speed to medium-high to avoid a sugar cloud.
- Beat for 3 minutes until the mixture is smooth.
- Scrape down the bottom and sides of the bowl and paddle.
- Add the cream cheese and continue beating on medium-high for 1 minute until fluffy.
- Add the vanilla and mix for 30 seconds until fully incorporated.
- Scrape down the bowl again as needed to ensure everything is well mixed.
how to serve The BEST Cream Cheese Frosting
This delicious cream cheese frosting is perfect for spreading on cakes and cupcakes. You can also use it as a dip for cookies or fruit. For a beautiful presentation, pipe it onto baked goods with a piping bag!
how to store The BEST Cream Cheese Frosting
Store any leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to a week. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for a bit to soften, then give it a quick mix.
tips to make The BEST Cream Cheese Frosting
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This will help create a smooth and creamy texture.
- Sifting the powdered sugar helps to avoid lumps and makes mixing easier.
- Don’t skip the vanilla extract; it adds wonderful flavor!
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar according to your taste.
variation
For a twist, you can add different flavors to the frosting. Try mixing in some lemon zest for a citrusy taste or a bit of cocoa powder for chocolate cream cheese frosting. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Can I freeze cream cheese frosting?
Yes, you can freeze the frosting! Place it in an airtight container, and it will last for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before using.
How can I make this frosting less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of powdered sugar or add more cream cheese, which will also balance the flavors.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3/4 stick 3/4 stick (85 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature Ensure butter is at room temperature.
- 1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 cups (188 grams) powdered sugar, sifted Sifting helps avoid lumps.
- 6 ounces 6 ounces (170 grams) cream cheese, completely softened to room temperature Cream cheese should be at room temperature.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract Don't skip this ingredient; it adds wonderful flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sifted powdered sugar on low.
- Gradually increase the speed to medium-high to avoid a sugar cloud.
- Beat for 3 minutes until the mixture is smooth.
- Scrape down the bottom and sides of the bowl and paddle.
- Add the cream cheese and continue beating on medium-high for 1 minute until fluffy.
- Add the vanilla and mix for 30 seconds until fully incorporated.
- Scrape down the bowl again as needed to ensure everything is well mixed.