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Ultimate Fluffy & Stable American Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

A large, fluffy mound of bright white vanilla buttercream frosting sitting on a white plate, catching bright sunlight.
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Make the best homemade frosting with this easy vanilla buttercream recipe. It creates a rich, creamy, and fluffy topping that holds its shape perfectly for piping cakes and cupcakes.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter in 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. Once all the sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  4. Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 to 5 minutes. This whipping time is key to achieving a light, fluffy texture.
  5. Check the consistency. If the frosting seems too stiff for spreading or piping, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired smooth consistency.
  6. Beat on high for one final minute to incorporate air, making the buttercream extra stable and fluffy for decorating.

Notes

  • For the best results when piping intricate designs, use cold butter initially, then beat until just combined before adding sugar, which results in a stiffer frosting base.
  • If your frosting seems too soft after mixing, chill the entire bowl for 10 minutes, then briefly re-whip.
  • Always sift your powdered sugar to avoid lumps in your smooth vanilla frosting.
  • This recipe makes enough creamy cake icing to generously frost one 9-inch layer cake or top 18 standard cupcakes.

Nutrition

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