This lemon buttercream frosting is a delightful way to brighten up your favorite desserts! Made with just three simple ingredients, it’s whipped to perfection, resulting in a light and fluffy texture with a tangy citrus kick. Whether you’re frosting cupcakes, cakes, or cookies, this frosting is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, you can easily make it vegan or dairy-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
The combination of freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest gives this frosting its vibrant flavor, while the powdered sugar adds the perfect level of sweetness. Adjust the consistency to suit your needs, and get ready to add a burst of sunshine to your baked goods. Let’s whip up this simple yet irresistibly delicious lemon buttercream!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter (or vegan butter), softened
- 2 ½ to 3 cups powdered sugar, depending on your sweetness preference
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Instructions
Step 1: Whip the Butter
In the bowl of an electric mixer or using a hand mixer, add the softened butter or vegan butter. Beat on high speed for about 1 minute until smooth and fluffy.
Step 2: Add the Lemon Goodness
Add 2 ½ cups of powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the whipped butter. Beat on high speed for 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Adjust Sweetness and Consistency
Taste the frosting and, if needed, add up to ½ cup more powdered sugar for extra sweetness. If the frosting feels too thick, add a splash of milk (about 1 teaspoon at a time) to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Scrape and Re-whip
Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring everything is fully incorporated. Beat the frosting again on high speed for another 30 seconds for a smooth and fluffy texture.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Buttercream
- Zest Smartly: Use a microplane zester to get fine lemon zest without the bitter pith.
- Vegan Option: Swap butter with a high-quality vegan alternative for a dairy-free frosting.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Spread this creamy, tangy lemon frosting over your favorite baked treats and enjoy the zingy sweetness in every bite! 🍋💛
