Craving an all-rounded icing that elevates any dessert? Let me introduce the chameleon in my bakery – the perfect vanilla buttercream frosting.
A few drops of vanilla extract will transform the mundane white buttercream frosting into a delightful treat. A balanced sweetness with a subtle fruity, floral hint – that’s what every cake and cupcake call for. And I bet you are eager to unlock the best recipe. Scroll down to learn more!
Why This Recipe Will Win Your Heart
Let’s be honest; we’re all on the lookout for that kitchen wizard that doesn’t demand much effort to conjure. And vanilla buttercream frosting hits the sweet spot just right! Lemon cupcakes, funfetti cupcakes, coconut cakes, sugar cookie cakes, and more – there’s no shortage of sweets that pair well with this buttery, creamy icing.
What’s even more charming about this recipe is its simplicity. Ever since I opened my bakery doors, crafting that fluffy and flavorful frosting, the one we all dream of, has never taken me more than 10 minutes.
And let’s not forget its lovely appearance. No more decorations needed! The creamy white swirl atop a cupcake itself shines like the frosty crown of a frozen queen, enough to make your mouth water and your kids lick their fingers just by looking at it.
How To Make Vanilla Buttercream Icing
First off, let’s take a glance at our ingredient lineup here:
- Butter: Well, this is the lifeblood of any frosting, right? Salted or unsalted? You call the shot. But I always stick with unsalted butter so as not to mess with the flavor profile.
- Powdered sugar: It delicately sugarcoats our frosting, giving it that pipeable, smooth, and stable texture.
- Heavy cream: This is the secret to the cloud-like, creamy texture of the spread.
- Vanilla extract: Need I say more? Its warm, floral embrace envelops every crevice of the frosting.
- Salt: A pinch of salt can balance things out nicely. If you choose salted butter, feel free to cross this ingredient out of the list.
Now, roll up your sleeves and hit the kitchen!
Step 1: Take 2 cups of butter out of the fridge and let it soften a bit at room temperature.
Then, beat it in an electric mixer until it reaches a creamy texture. While mixing it, toss in a dash of salt (about ½ teaspoon) and give the mixture a good whirl.
Step 2: Scoop out 6 cups of powdered sugar and dump it into the mixer. Remember to add only ½ cup at a time and let it get cozy with the gang before pouring more.
Step 3: Prepare 6 tablespoons of heavy cream. Add in 1 tablespoon at a time, keeping the mixer at a low or medium speed. After the mixture is well combined, continue beating it at high speed for 30 seconds.
This high-speed dance is to ensure the cloud-like fluff of the vanilla buttercream frosting.
Step 4: We save the best for last – vanilla. Add 2 teaspoons of this extract and whip the sweet frosting again so that the tantalizing vanilla note can permeate every nook and cranny.
Introducing this extract at the final step allows for a more intense vanilla flavor while preserving the smooth consistency of the icing.
Now, you can pipe it onto your favorite cakes or cupcakes. Remember to wait for the sweet treat to completely cool down before decorating. Also, you can spice things up with some sprinkles on the fluffy frosting for a deeper and more nuanced flavor.
Just A Small Note
Air bubbles in the frosting can be a real turn-off for any dessert. But fear not, I’ve got your back. Be prepared for a bit of elbow grease, though! You might have to sweat a lot when mashing the icing against the mixing bowl using a spoon. That’s the secret to popping those pesky bubbles.
FAQs
How Long Does Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Last?
This icing is quite stable at room temperature thanks to the high sugar content, lasting 2 to 3 days. If you want to enjoy this delightful treat longer, toss it in the refrigerator in an airtight container, and it will keep shining for 1 to 2 weeks.
Is Buttercream And Vanilla Buttercream Frosting The Same?
Well, vanilla buttercream frosting is basically buttercream frosting with a touch of vanilla. You might taste a subtle difference in the flavor profile.
How Can I Make The Icing More Flavorful?
Just introduce other simple ingredients to the mix, and you can bring out a new nuance in its rich flavor. Coffee or espresso, cocoa powder, or almond extract are a few to name.
More Unique Frosting Recipes:
Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
- 2 cups softened, unsalted butter
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 6 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Beat softened butter in a mixer. Add in the salt and stir again.
- Dump the powdered sugar in the bowl and keep beating (½ cup each time).
- Toss in the heavy cream (1 tablespoon each time) while mixing on the medium-low setting. After the mixture is smooth, adjust the mixer to high speed and mix for 30 seconds.
- Add the vanilla extract and whisk the mixture well. Swirl it as you like!
Notes
Nutrition
Now is the time for your inner baking genius to shine! Share with me how you whip up this amazing frosting!
Fabulous