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The Ultimate 10-Minute Fluffy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe

A large, perfectly piped swirl of creamy white vanilla buttercream frosting sitting on a small white plate.
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Master the best vanilla buttercream recipe that guarantees a creamy, smooth, stable texture perfect for piping cakes and cookies. This is the no-fail, bakery-style homemade vanilla icing you need for stress-free decorating.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Increase the speed to medium-low and beat until combined.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Beat on medium speed for 1 minute.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium-high speed for 3 to 5 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth. This whipping time is key for achieving a bakery-style texture.
  5. If the frosting seems too stiff for spreading, add the remaining cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency for piping or spreading.
  6. If the frosting is too soft for piping, add a little more sifted powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds stiff peaks.

Notes

  • For the smoothest buttercream, ensure your butter is truly at room temperature, not melted.
  • Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps and helps create a grain-free, smooth buttercream.
  • To achieve a stable frosting for piping intricate designs, use cold heavy cream and beat for the full 5 minutes on medium-high speed.
  • If you want a richer vanilla flavor, substitute 1/2 teaspoon of clear vanilla extract with 1/2 teaspoon of high-quality pure vanilla extract.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe-fluffy/