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5 Amazing Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Secrets

vanilla buttercream frosting

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This is the ultimate, easy American Vanilla Buttercream Frosting recipe from Savory Skies. You will create a perfectly creamy, smooth, and fluffy frosting that holds its shape well for piping on cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. It comes together fast using standard pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter into a large 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.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix on low speed until incorporated.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high. Beat for 3 to 5 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  5. If the frosting seems too stiff, add the remaining cream or milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired spreading consistency.
  6. Use immediately to frost your baked goods.

Notes

  • For the best texture, ensure your butter is truly softened, not melted.
  • Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps in your final frosting.
  • If your frosting is too thin after adding the liquid, add 1/4 cup more sifted powdered sugar and beat again.
  • If the frosting seems too sweet, add another very small pinch of salt to balance the flavor.

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