Description
Cream Cheese Frosting is a rich, creamy, and tangy classic frosting perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and more. Made with softened full-fat cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, this frosting offers a perfectly balanced flavor with a smooth and spreadable texture. Versatile and quick to make, it adds an irresistible finish to your baked goods and can be easily customized with various flavor twists or dietary adjustments.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Variations
- Lemon zest and juice (to taste)
- Maple syrup (to replace some powdered sugar)
- Vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter (for dairy-free version)
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice (to taste)
- Dark chocolate, melted and cooled (to fold in for chocolate twist)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth, lump-free frosting.
- Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until fluffy and well combined.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: Sift the powdered sugar before slowly adding it while mixing at low speed to prevent a sugar cloud. Beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of milk or cream; if too thin, add more powdered sugar gradually until the desired texture is reached.
Notes
- Softening is Key: Bring cream cheese and butter to room temperature for smooth mixing without lumps.
- Sift Sugar: Sifting powdered sugar prevents clumps and ensures a silky finish.
- Mix Gently: Avoid over-beating to prevent the frosting from becoming runny.
- Taste Test: Adjust sweetness or tanginess after mixing to find your perfect balance.
- Keep It Cool: Chill the frosting if your kitchen is warm to maintain firmness and spreadability.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (about 37g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg