This simple powdered sugar buttercream frosting recipe requires just four basic ingredients. Smooth, creamy, and very decadent, this vanilla icing is sure to be a favorite.
When it comes to frosting, taste is paramount — and this fluffy vanilla frosting is absolutely delicious. It’s a classic, nostalgic frosting, reminiscent of the kind you’d find atop cupcakes from your childhood.
Trick for Less Sugary Tasting Frosting
The trick is to make sure that you cream the butter and confectioner’s sugar long enough. Use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment and mix the barely room temperature butter until soft and smooth. Then add the powdered sugar a little at a time. Mix in the sugar in completely before adding more.
Thicker Frosting
The thicker consistency without milk is perfect for piping from a decorating bag. It works equally well for spreading on cupcakes and cakes.
Piped decorations hold their shape beautifully while still tasting light and smooth. In contrast, looser icings made with milk can droop and lose their form when piped into designs.
However, if you want a looser frosting for swooping or spreading on cookies, add a little bit of milk, non-dairy milk, or water. Check and adjust the texture as you go by adjusting the amount of liquid and powdered sugar.
Buttercream Frosting Variations
Once you have this basic frosting recipe, you can easily customize it to suit your needs. Add a bit of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist or use your favorite food coloring to create a rainbow of hues. For a rich chocolate buttercream, mix in some cocoa powder. You can also adjust the consistency with more liquid to create a glaze, perfect for drizzling over muffins, coffee cakes, or any dessert.
Easy Buttercream Frosting Recipe Without Milk
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 3 Cups Powdered Sugar
- 1 Cup Unsalted Butter at room temperature or other dairy-free butter
- 1 Pinch Salt
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the butter on low speed using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment until smooth and creamy.1 Cup Unsalted Butter
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated. Whip for 5 minutes.3 Cups Powdered Sugar
- Add the pinch of salt and vanilla extract, beating on high speed until incorporated until the frosting is light and fluffy, ensuring everything is well combined.1 Pinch Salt, 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- This recipe makes enough frosting for more than 16 cupcakes. Spread the icing on cooled cupcakes or cake using a knife. You can transfer it to a pastry bag to pipe decoratively over the cake or cupcakes.
Your Own Private Notes
Nutrition
Are you looking for a delicious dairy-free vanilla frosting recipe?
Swap out the butter for a dairy-free butter. This silky frosting is perfect for those with dairy allergies. If you would like it to be a bit fluffier, add 2 tablespoons of non-dairy milk substitute. Made with simple ingredients and easily customizable. This frosting is great for special occasions. Use it to top off your favorite vegan dessert recipes like layer cakes, and more.
Recipe Tips for Success
Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is barely at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
Swap out the Unsalted Butter: If using salted butter, skip the pinch of salt.
Use a Stand Mixer: To make the frosting, I recommend a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, not the whisk. I find the whisk incorporates more air into the frosting.
Sift the Sugar: For a silky frosting, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture.
Adjust Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add non-dairy milk (like coconut milk or almond milk) a tablespoon at a time. For a thicker consistency, add more powdered sugar.
Mixing Speed: Start mixing on low speed to prevent the sugar from spilling, then increase to high speed for a fluffy frosting.
Color the Buttercream Frosting
You can easily color this frosting to suit any occasion. Simply add a few drops of food coloring to the mixture and beat until the color is evenly distributed. Whether you’re looking to create vibrant hues for a birthday cake or subtle pastels for a baby shower, this frosting takes on color beautifully. Remember to start with a little bit of coloring and gradually add more until you achieve the desired shade.
Uses for This Frosting
Cakes and Cupcakes: Perfect for frosting layer cakes, birthday cakes, or cupcakes.
Cookies: Great for decorating sugar cookies with a simple, delicious vanilla icing.
Storing the Buttercream Frosting
Store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing Frosting
You can also freeze this frosting for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using and re-whip if necessary to restore the fluffy texture.
My family loved this!