Print

The Ultimate 10-Minute Fluffy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

A large swirl of light, fluffy vanilla buttercream frosting piled high in a small white bowl.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make the best vanilla buttercream frosting for your cakes and cupcakes. This recipe delivers a creamy, smooth, and stable American buttercream that is perfect for piping and decorating, ready in under 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter 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. This prevents a sugar cloud in your kitchen.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes. This step incorporates air, making the frosting fluffy.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium-high speed for another 2 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  5. Check the consistency. If the frosting seems too stiff for spreading or piping, add the remaining cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired piping consistency frosting texture.
  6. If you need a stiffer frosting for decorating buttercream, add a little more powdered sugar. If it is too thin, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar or chill briefly.
  7. Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.

Notes

  • For the smoothest texture, always sift your powdered sugar to prevent a grainy frosting result.
  • Use room temperature butter; if the butter is too cold, the frosting will be lumpy. If it is too warm, the frosting will be soupy.
  • If you are making this for a warm day or need extra stability for intricate piping, chill the finished buttercream for 10-15 minutes before using.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute the vanilla extract with 1/2 teaspoon of clear vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of standard vanilla extract.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe/