Make bakery style vanilla buttercream at home! This recipe delivers a smooth, fluffy, and stable homemade buttercream recipe perfect for layer cakes and cupcakes. It is a no-fail frosting ready in minutes.
Author:sophia collins
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:10 min
Yield:About 3 cups1x
Category:Dessert Topping
Method:Mixing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3 1/2 to 4 cups (420g to 480g) powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Pinch of salt
Instructions
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 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition.
Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 to 5 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. This step is key for a smooth buttercream technique.
If the frosting seems too stiff, add heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency for piping frosting. If it is too soft, add a little more powdered sugar.
Use immediately on your favorite cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. This creamy vanilla frosting holds its shape well for decoration.
Notes
For the silkiest texture, make sure your butter is truly at room temperature, not melted.
If you want a brighter white frosting, substitute clear vanilla extract for the standard extract.
To achieve a bakery style vanilla frosting, beat the mixture on high speed for a full 5 minutes after all ingredients are added.
This recipe is perfect for beginners and provides a melt-in-the-mouth frosting experience.