The beauty of this cream cheese frosting lies in its perfect balance between tanginess and sweetness. The softened cream cheese blends seamlessly with the butter, creating a velvety, smooth texture that is both rich and light. Adding vanilla extract enhances the flavor with a subtle warmth, while the powdered sugar allows you to control the sweetness to your liking. Whether used as a spread for cakes or piped elegantly onto cupcakes, this frosting elevates any dessert with its irresistible creamy decadence.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups (360-480g) powdered sugar (depending on your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (optional, for consistency)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature. This ensures they blend smoothly without any lumps.
- Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer (or a stand mixer) to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Once the cream cheese and butter are fully combined, add the vanilla extract. Beat again for another 30 seconds to blend the flavors evenly.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the bowl, one cup at a time. Mix on low speed to avoid sugar clouds, then increase the speed to medium once the sugar starts to incorporate. Depending on how sweet and thick you want the frosting, you can stop at 3 cups of powdered sugar or add up to 4 cups.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium-high speed for about 1 minute, or until you reach a light, fluffy texture that is easy to spread.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the frosting and adjust the sweetness by adding more powdered sugar if needed. You can also add a pinch of salt if you find it too sweet.
- Chill if Necessary: If the frosting feels too soft to pipe or spread, place it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This will help firm it up for easier application.
- Frost Your Dessert: Spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting onto your cake, cupcakes, or cookies. This frosting is perfect for classic cakes like carrot cake, red velvet, and cinnamon rolls.
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Cream cheese frosting can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using it again, bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whip for smoothness.
- Freeze: You can also freeze cream cheese frosting for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and beat it again to restore its creamy consistency.
