Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe – Easy Vanilla Buttercream for Cakes

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe – Easy Vanilla Buttercream For Cakes

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, a beautifully frosted cake just makes the occasion, doesn’t it? I’ve been making this cream cheese frosting for years – it’s my go-to for birthday cakes, cupcakes, even just a little something sweet with my evening chai. It’s seriously the easiest, most delicious vanilla buttercream you’ll ever try. And trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cream cheese frosting is a total winner for a few reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make – seriously, just a few ingredients and about 10 minutes. Second, the flavour is amazing. That slight tang from the cream cheese balances the sweetness perfectly. And finally, it’s so versatile! It’s perfect for decorating everything from elaborate layer cakes to simple cupcakes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this dreamy frosting:

• ½ cup (113g) cream cheese
• ¼ cup (57g) butter
• ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) vanilla essence
• 1 cup (120g) icing sugar

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because getting these right makes all the difference.

• Cream Cheese: Please, please, please use full-fat cream cheese! Low-fat versions just won’t give you that rich, creamy texture we’re after. I always use a good quality brand, and make sure it’s nice and cold before starting.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is the way to go here. It lets you control the sweetness of the frosting. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature – not melted! – so it creams together beautifully with the cream cheese.
• Vanilla Essence: A good quality vanilla extract really shines through. You can experiment with different types (see the Variations section!).
• Icing Sugar: Also known as powdered sugar, this is key for a smooth frosting.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get frosting! It’s super easy, I promise.

1. First, gather all your ingredients. Having everything ready to go makes the process so much smoother.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cold cream cheese and softened butter. Don’t worry if it looks a little lumpy at first – we’ll fix that!
3. Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer both work great!), beat the mixture on high speed until it’s wonderfully creamy and fluffy. This usually takes a few minutes.
4. Add the vanilla essence and mix briefly to incorporate. The smell alone is heavenly, isn’t it?
5. Now, sift the icing sugar into the bowl. Sifting prevents lumps, which is a lifesaver!
6. Beat again on high speed until stiff peaks form and the frosting reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. Keep an eye on it – you don’t want to overbeat it!
7. Finally, transfer the frosting to a piping bag and decorate your cooled cakes or cupcakes immediately. Or, you can just grab a spoon and enjoy a little taste test… I won’t judge!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t overwhip the frosting, or it can become grainy.
• If your cream cheese is really cold, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before starting.
• For an extra smooth frosting, scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times during mixing.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vanilla Extracts: Experiment with different vanilla extracts – Madagascar bourbon vanilla, Tahitian vanilla, or even a vanilla bean paste for extra flavour.
• Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon for a bright, citrusy twist. My grandma always added lemon zest to hers!
• Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting: Add 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a decadent chocolate frosting.
• Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, start with ¾ cup of icing sugar and add more to taste.

Vegan Adaptation

While this recipe isn’t naturally vegan, you can adapt it! Use a vegan cream cheese alternative and a vegan butter substitute. Make sure both are the same temperature as their dairy counterparts for best results.

Gluten-Free Suitability

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your icing sugar doesn’t contain any added gluten.

Spice Level

Not Applicable – this is a sweet treat!

Festival Adaptations

This frosting is perfect for any celebration!

• Christmas: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive flavour.
• Birthday Cakes: Decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or your favourite cake toppers.

Serving Suggestions

This frosting is amazing on… well, everything! But here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Vanilla cupcakes
• Chocolate cake
• Red velvet cake
• Brownies
• Even spread on biscuits or scones!

Storage Instructions

This frosting is best used immediately, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before using, let it come to room temperature and re-whip it briefly to restore its fluffy texture.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

1. Can I make this frosting ahead of time?

You can, but the texture might change slightly. It’s best to make it the same day you plan to use it. If you do make it ahead, store it in the fridge and re-whip before using.

2. What’s the best way to get rid of lumps in the frosting?

Sifting the icing sugar is the best prevention! If you still have lumps, try warming the bowl slightly over a pan of simmering water (be careful not to melt the frosting!) and mixing again.

3. Can I use flavored cream cheese?

You can, but it will definitely change the flavour of the frosting. A plain cream cheese is recommended for the best results.

4. My frosting is too soft, what did I do wrong?

Most likely, your butter was too warm or your cream cheese wasn’t cold enough. Try chilling the frosting for 15-20 minutes and then re-whipping.

5. Can this frosting be used for macarons?

While it could be used, it’s not ideal. Macaron frosting needs to be very stable, and this frosting is a bit softer.

6. What type of icing sugar is best for this recipe?

Regular icing sugar (powdered sugar) is perfect. Just make sure it doesn’t contain any cornstarch if you’re looking for a super smooth texture.