Description
This creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting is the perfect topping for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Made with softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, it whips up smooth and fluffy in just minutes. The frosting is versatile, easy to make, and complements flavors like red velvet, carrot cake, and cinnamon rolls beautifully.
Ingredients
Scale
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until fully combined to enhance the frosting’s flavor.
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue until the frosting is fluffy, smooth, and reaches desired sweetness and consistency. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to fully incorporate all ingredients.
- Use or Store: Use the frosting immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Alternatively, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using chilled frosting, bring it to room temperature and re-whip for best spreadability.
Notes
- For stiffer frosting suitable for piping, add up to 1/2 cup more powdered sugar.
- Increase cream cheese to 10 oz for a tangier flavor.
- This frosting pairs especially well with red velvet cake, carrot cake, and cinnamon rolls.
