There’s something magical about homemade buttercream frosting. It’s silky, rich, and perfectly sweet, transforming even the simplest cake or cupcake into an irresistible treat. I still remember the first time I made buttercream—it was for my best friend’s birthday.
I was nervous about getting the texture just right, but as soon as I whipped that glossy frosting into peaks and tasted a spoonful (quality control, of course), I knew I’d never go back to store-bought again.
The secret? A balance of creamy butter, a splash of vanilla, and just enough powdered sugar to create a frosting that’s sweet without being cloying. What makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can easily adjust the consistency for piping roses onto a cake or spreading a smooth layer over cupcakes.
Plus, buttercream frosting is trending lately as more people rediscover the joy of baking from scratch—a trend supported by a survey that found 68% of Americans are baking more than they were a year ago.
This buttercream recipe is the foundation of countless dessert creations, and once you’ve mastered it, the possibilities are endless. Let’s get started—and don’t forget to share your variations below!
Perfect for Celebrations!
- Spring weddings: Add a touch of almond extract and a pale pink hue for a romantic vibe.
- Holiday desserts: Mix in peppermint or cinnamon for a festive flair.
- Casual picnics: Pair it with a moist vanilla sheet cake for easy slicing and sharing.
- Themed parties: Tint the frosting in vibrant colors to match your party’s theme or decor.
- Baby showers: Create pastel-colored cupcakes with a swirl of buttercream for an elegant display.
Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowlSpatula
- Airtight container
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 tbsp drops food coloring, or as needed (Optional)
- 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- To make this buttercream frosting, cream butter in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar until fully incorporated, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Add milk and beat for 3 to 4 minutes until light and airy.
- For added flair, mix in food coloring and beat for 30 seconds or until the desired color is reached.
- Use the frosting immediately.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for a smoother consistency.
- Adjust milk quantity for your preferred frosting thickness.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 228kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 31g |
Tips To Ease Your Job!
- Room Temperature Butter: Always start with softened butter to ensure the frosting whips up smoothly without lumps. Cold butter will make the process harder and result in a chunky texture.
- Sift the Sugar: Sift confectioners’ sugar before adding it to the butter to prevent clumps and achieve a silky frosting.
- Use a Scraper: Frequently scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Start Slow: Begin mixing at a low speed to avoid a powdered sugar cloud in your kitchen. Gradually increase the speed for fluffy results.
- Taste and Adjust: Adjust sweetness by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of extra vanilla to balance flavors.
