Get ready to frost your favorite cakes, cupcakes, and cookies with the most delicious buttercream frosting recipe! This easy-to-follow recipe uses simple ingredients like softened butter, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla extract to create a luscious and creamy frosting that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll love how quickly and effortlessly this buttercream frosting recipe comes together. Plus, with a few simple additions, you can easily customize it with flavors like chocolate, lemon, or almond. So gather your mixing bowl and get ready to experience the joy of creating a truly delightful dessert!

Best Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Electric Mixer with Whisk attachment
- 1 Medium sized bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature 2 sticks
- 3 cups powdered sugar cane sugar
- 1/4 cup milk whole milk is best, but reduced fat works too.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt fine ground
Instructions
- Beat the butter: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add milk and vanilla: Once all the sugar is incorporated, beat in the milk and vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Add salt: Add the salt and beat for another minute.
- Use immediately or store: Use the frosting immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or other treats. If not using immediately, store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before using.
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Notes
- Soften Butter Properly: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier beating and a smoother frosting.
- Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: This prevents the sugar from flying everywhere and makes it easier to incorporate.
- Adjust Sweetness: Add more powdered sugar for a sweeter frosting or a touch more milk for a thinner consistency.
- Flavor Variations: Get creative! Try adding citrus zest, cocoa powder, fruit purees, or different extracts to customize the flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before using.
Nutrition
Buttercream Frosting Variations
Chocolate Buttercream Frosting: Add cocoa powder: For chocolate buttercream, add 1/4 to 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the butter before adding the sugar. Adjust sweetness: You may need to add a bit more powdered sugar to balance the bitterness of the cocoa.
Other Flavors
- Lemon: Add the zest of 1 lemon and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Almond: Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract.
- Coffee: Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee powder.
- Mint: Add 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
- Strawberry: Add 1 teaspoon of strawberry extract and a few drops of red food coloring.
Buttercream Frosting Recipe Tips
Gradually Add Sugar: Adding the powdered sugar gradually prevents it from flying everywhere.
Beat Thoroughly: Beating the frosting well incorporates air and creates a light and fluffy texture.
Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

Butter VS. Butter Flavored Crisco
Flavor
Butter: Provides a rich, buttery flavor that is classic for buttercream. Crisco: Offers a milder, slightly less intense flavor. Some people find it has a subtle shortening taste.
Texture
Butter: Creates a richer, creamier frosting. Crisco: Can result in a slightly lighter and fluffier frosting.
Stability
Butter: Can be more prone to melting in warm temperatures due to its higher fat content. Crisco: Tends to be more stable in warmer conditions, making it a good choice for summer baking or humid climates.
Which to Choose
If you prioritize a rich, classic buttery flavor, use real butter.
If you prefer a slightly lighter texture or need a more stable frosting, consider butter-flavored shortening.
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