Simple and Best Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a classic vanilla buttercream frosting to elevate your cupcakes, cakes, or cookies. This frosting is creamy, fluffy, and perfectly sweet with just the right hint of vanilla. Whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned pro, this easy recipe is your key to achieving bakery-style frosting at home.

The secret to this luscious buttercream lies in whipping the butter to perfection and gradually adding the powdered sugar. This method creates a silky, smooth texture that’s easy to spread or pipe.

With a touch of salt to balance the sweetness and heavy cream for the ideal consistency, this buttercream is versatile and delicious every time. This recipe makes enough to frost 24 cupcakes or a 2-layer cake, and you can easily adjust the sweetness and consistency to your preference. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this buttery vanilla perfection!

Ingredients

Servings
Frosts 24 cupcakes (yields about 5 cups of frosting)

1. 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature
2. 4 1/2 to 5 cups powdered sugar, sifted, or adjusted to taste
3. 1/4 tsp fine salt, or to taste
4. 4 tsp vanilla extract
5. 3–4 tbsp heavy cream or whole milk, added to achieve desired consistency

Instructions  

Step 1: Whip the Butter  

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or using a handheld electric mixer), beat the butter on high speed for 5 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. The butter should become lighter in color and fluffy—this step is crucial for achieving a smooth buttercream texture.

Step 2: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar  

1. While the butter is whipping, sift 4 1/2 to 5 cups of powdered sugar to remove any lumps. Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low and add the powdered sugar one heaping tablespoon at a time, allowing each addition to fully incorporate before adding the next. Adjust the sugar amount to taste, depending on how sweet you prefer your frosting.

Step 3: Add Flavorings  

1. Once the powdered sugar is fully mixed in, add the fine salt to balance the sweetness, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Adjust the Consistency

1. Add the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue adding until you achieve your desired consistency—thicker for piping or slightly thinner for spreading. Beat the frosting for an additional minute to ensure it’s whipped and fully incorporated.

Tips for Success !

1. Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter is key for smooth mixing. Too cold, and it won’t whip properly; too warm, and the frosting may become greasy.
2. Sift the Sugar: Sifting powdered sugar ensures a lump-free, smooth frosting.
3. Adjust Consistency Gradually: Add cream or milk a tablespoon at a time to avoid making the frosting too thin.
4. Balance the Sweetness: Start with 4 1/2 cups of powdered sugar and adjust to taste. Add more if you like a sweeter frosting.
5. Whipping Time: Whip the frosting well for a light and airy texture that’s perfect for decorating.

With this simple recipe, you’ll have the best vanilla buttercream frosting ready in no time. Use it to frost cupcakes, layer cakes, or as a filling for cookies—it’s a classic that never fails to impress! 🎂✨