Are you tired of frosting that’s too sweet, too heavy, or just plain disappointing? Look no further than this easy, creamy, and perfectly balanced and versatile cream cheese frosting recipe. Whether you’re frosting a cake, cupcakes, or simply enjoying it by the spoonful, this 4-ingredient cream cheese frosting is sure to become a new favorite. Step-by-step instructions are included in the recipe.
My daughter and I often bake a cake or two during the weekends! It’s our regular routine. We make the cake Saturday then bring it to church the next day.
Our Saturday baking is a “kill two birds with one stone” kind of deal for me. You know why? I get to develop and test recipes, particularly those on the sweeter side. At the same time, I also get to share our yummy dessert with our churchmates the next day because we serve it during coffee time. Win-win, right?
Whenever we make a cake that needs frosting this delicious vanilla cream cheese frosting is our go-to recipe. I have made this so many times already so you can be sure it’s tried and tested! It elevates any cake it’s added to because it is so perfectly balanced in flavor, not too sweet, not too cheesy or salty – but just right. Try it and you’ll see!
Why You Would Love This Recipe
You would love this cream cheese frosting recipe because it delivers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, with a rich, creamy texture that is light and fluffy yet still thick enough to pipe beautifully onto cakes and cupcakes. Made with just a few simple ingredients like cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, it comes together quickly and easily and can be made ahead and even frozen for convenience.
Ingredients for the Best Cream Cheese Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 3½ cups confectioners or icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions on How to Make the Best Cream Cheese Frosting
Using an electric mixer, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
On low speed, add the powdered sugar one cup at a time and continue until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Beat in the vanilla extract.
Spread evenly on top of the cooled cake or cupcakes.
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Frosting
- Use room temperature ingredients: Softened butter and cream cheese will blend more easily, resulting in a smoother frosting.
- Beat the butter and cream cheese first: This helps to incorporate air into the mixture, making the frosting light and fluffy.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually: Adding the sugar all at once can cause a mess and make it harder to achieve the desired consistency.
- Don’t overbeat: Once the sugar is incorporated, stop mixing to prevent the frosting from becoming grainy or dense.
- Chill before using: Refrigerating the frosting for at least 30 minutes will help it firm up and make it easier to spread.
Variations and Uses for Cream Cheese Frosting
- Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting: Add 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the recipe.
- Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace the vanilla extract with lemon extract and add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon zest.
- Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting: Add 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to the recipe.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Cupcakes: Use this frosting to top your favorite cupcake flavors, such as red velvet, carrot cake, or spice cake.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Cake: Frost a layer cake or use it as a filling between cake layers.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Cookies: Use this frosting to sandwich between two cookies or as a dip for cookie sticks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use low-fat cream cheese? While you can use low-fat cream cheese, the frosting may not be as rich and creamy. For best results, use full-fat cream cheese.
How long does cream cheese frosting last? Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, cream cheese frosting will last for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze cream cheese frosting? Yes, you can freeze cream cheese frosting for up to 2 months. Simply, thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
Why is my cream cheese frosting runny? If your frosting is too thin, it may be due to overbeating or using ingredients that are too warm. Chill the frosting for 30 minutes to firm it up.
Can I use this frosting under fondant? Yes, cream cheese frosting can be used as a base under fondant, but it may need to be chilled for longer to ensure it’s firm enough to support the fondant.
This easy cream cheese frosting recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a creamy, buttery and perfectly sweet topping. With its versatility and delicious flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Best Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, slightly softened
- 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
- 3½ cups confectioners or icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Using an electric mixer, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- On low speed, add the powdered sugar one cup at a time and continue until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the vanilla extract.
- Spread evenly on top of the cooled cake or cupcakes.
