Buttercream frosting is a beloved staple in American baking, used to top everything from birthday cakes to sugar cookies. This classic version is simple, smooth, and sweet with a hint of vanilla. Using powdered sugar, butter, cream (or any liquid of choice), and vanilla extract, it creates a fluffy and spreadable consistency perfect for piping or slathering. The flexibility of liquid choices, from milk to fruit juice, allows for easy customization of flavor and color, making it a go-to for bakers seeking a timeless, versatile frosting.
Ingredients
- 1 lb powdered sugar
- ⅔ stick butter (soft, about 5 tbsp)
- 3 to 4 tbsp cream ( or other liquid: milk, fruit juice, etc.)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Cream Butter & Sugar
- Gradually beat 1 lb powdered sugar into ⅔ stick softened butter.
Step 2: Add Liquid
- Add 3 to 4 tbsp cream or other liquid (such as milk or fruit juice), one teaspoon at a time as needed, until desired spreading consistency is reached.
Step 3: Flavoring
- Add 1 tsp vanilla extract for flavoring.
Step 4: Beat Until Smooth
- Beat well until smooth, light, and fluffy.
Tips
- Add cocoa powder for chocolate buttercream, start with 2 to 4 tablespoons sifted cocoa.
- Swap milk with fruit juice (as the card suggests) for flavored frostings like lemon or orange.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
- Whip longer for a fluffier, lighter texture.
- Add food coloring gel for decorating cakes and cupcakes.
- Substitute part of the butter with shortening for a more heat-stable icing.
- Add almond, maple, or coconut extract instead of vanilla for variation.
- Thin with extra milk or cream 1 teaspoon at a time if frosting becomes too thick.
- Chill briefly if frosting gets too soft during warm weather.
- Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, smoother frosting.
Nutrition
Calories: 161kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 0.1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 2mgPotassium: 5mgFiber: 0.001gSugar: 37gVitamin A: 55IUVitamin C: 0.02mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 0.03mg
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