If you adore the sweet tang of fresh strawberries mixed with the luscious creaminess of cheese, you are going to fall head over heels for this Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of fruity brightness and velvety smooth texture that will effortlessly elevate any cupcake, cake, or dessert you pair it with. Whether it’s a celebration or just a treat-yourself kind of day, this frosting is as delightful to make as it is to eat, bringing that fresh strawberry flavor into every luscious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in the taste, texture, and stunning color of the frosting.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides a creamy, rich base that helps the frosting whip up light and smooth.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds a tangy depth and velvety texture that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- ½ cup fresh strawberries (pureed and strained): Gives that vibrant pink hue and fresh natural strawberry flavor without any artificial taste.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting while creating the perfect fluffy consistency for spreading or piping.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, giving the frosting a warm, aromatic kick.
- Pinch of salt: Offsets the sweetness and brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
Start by beating the softened butter and cream cheese together in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer. This is the foundation of your frosting, so mix until the blend is perfectly smooth and creamy, which usually takes about two minutes. This step ensures a light, airy texture later on.
Step 2: Add the Strawberry Puree and Vanilla
Next, gently fold in the strawberry puree along with the vanilla extract. The puree should be strained beforehand to avoid any seeds or excess liquid, which keeps the frosting thick and luscious. Mix until these ingredients are fully combined, turning your base into a gorgeous pale pink shade infused with fresh strawberry goodness.
Step 3: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar Gradually
Now comes the sweet part — add powdered sugar a cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual process helps the frosting stay fluffy rather than dense. Continue until all the sugar is incorporated and your frosting looks light and pillowy.
Step 4: Balance with a Pinch of Salt and Chill if Needed
To round out the sweetness, mix in a pinch of salt; this tiny addition will brighten the frosting’s flavor. If the frosting feels too soft or runny to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. This chilling time firms it up, making it easier to spread or pipe beautifully on your desserts.
How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A little garnish can turn simple frosting into a showstopper. Sprinkle some finely chopped fresh strawberries, edible rose petals, or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. For a fun crunch, toasted chopped almonds or pistachios pair beautifully with the creamy sweetness.
Side Dishes
This strawberry cream cheese frosting shines brightest atop light, flavorful cakes and cupcakes. Think classic vanilla or moist lemon cakes that won’t overpower the frosting’s delicate fruitiness. It’s also fantastic dolloped on warm cinnamon rolls or alongside fluffy pancakes for a decadent breakfast treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Let your imagination run wild by piped designs, ombré effects mixing in extra strawberry puree for deeper shades, or layering the frosting between thin cake layers for a stunning pink surprise inside. Spoon it over fresh fruit parfaits or swirl it into no-bake cheesecakes for a fresh twist on classic desserts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because this frosting contains fresh strawberries, it’s best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to five days. Give it a quick stir before using it again to restore that smooth texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover strawberry cream cheese frosting, but keep in mind the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Use an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge and beat gently to reincorporate the ingredients.
Reheating
Rather than direct reheating, simply bring the frosting to room temperature to soften naturally. Then, briefly whip it using a mixer to regain its creamy consistency before spreading or piping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the frosting?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing and straining to avoid excess liquid which can thin the frosting.
How do I make the strawberry flavor more intense?
For a bolder taste, gently simmer the strawberry puree over low heat to reduce and concentrate the flavor before adding it to the frosting.
Is this frosting suitable for decorating cakes with intricate designs?
Absolutely! The frosting’s smooth and fluffy texture makes it easy to pipe and hold shapes, perfect for both simple and detailed cake decorating.
Can I substitute cream cheese with mascarpone?
Mascarpone can be used, but expect a milder tang and slightly different texture. It will still create a delicious frosting but the tanginess will be subtler than with cream cheese.
What’s the best way to get rid of strawberry seeds in the puree?
Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth and gently press the puree through it. This helps remove seeds while retaining the vibrant strawberry flavor and color.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a frosting that combines fresh fruit flavor with classic cream cheese richness, and this Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe perfectly embodies that magic. It’s easy to make, versatile, and absolutely irresistible — a definite must-try for anyone who loves desserts that taste like a bite of fresh summer. Dive in and enjoy crafting your next memorable sweet treat adorned with this luscious frosting.
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Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Frosts 12–18 cupcakes or 1 two-layer cake
- Category: Frosting
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is a luscious, creamy topping perfect for cupcakes and cakes. Made with softened butter, cream cheese, and fresh strawberry puree, it offers a vibrant pink color and a deliciously fruity tang. The frosting is easy to prepare with no cooking required, providing a smooth, fluffy texture that complements any baked treat beautifully.
Ingredients
Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup fresh strawberries (pureed and strained)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add Strawberry Puree and Vanilla: Add the strawberry puree and vanilla extract to the mixture and continue mixing until fully combined.
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting becomes light and fluffy.
- Season with Salt: Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and mix briefly.
- Chill if Needed: If the frosting is too soft for spreading or piping, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
Notes
- Make sure to strain the strawberry puree to remove excess liquid and seeds for the best texture.
- For a more intense strawberry color and flavor, reduce the puree in a saucepan before adding to the frosting.
- Store leftover frosting in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
