The Best Homemade Vanilla Frosting Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade vanilla frosting is a game-changer for your desserts, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and simplicity. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, with just a few pantry staples, and the creamy texture that pairs beautifully with cakes, cookies, and more. First, it’s made with real vanilla extract, giving it a rich, authentic flavor that’s far better than store-bought. Second, it’s incredibly versatile—use it as a filling, topping, or even for piping intricate designs. Finally, it’s kid-approved, making it a hit at birthday parties and family gatherings!
Recipe
Indulge in a classic homemade vanilla frosting that’s creamy, smooth, and perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. This simple recipe uses pantry staples and delivers a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined. Increase speed to medium and beat until fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium speed for 1-2 minutes until light and smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream or milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Notes:
- For a stiffer frosting, add more powdered sugar. For a softer consistency, increase the amount of cream or milk.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Enough to frost 12 cupcakes or one 9-inch cake.
Nutrition
Vanilla frosting is a delicious topping for cakes and cupcakes, but it’s important to evaluate its nutritional content. Below is the nutritional information for a typical serving of homemade vanilla frosting.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 85mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 19g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 0g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing this vanilla frosting with fluffy cupcakes—it’s a classic combo that never disappoints. If you’re feeling adventurous, try spreading it on sugar cookies for a sweet, creamy twist. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with either choice!
Cupcake Pairings
When I’m making vanilla frosting, I always think about what cupcakes will make it shine, because pairing the right flavors can take your dessert to the next level. Chocolate cupcakes are a classic choice—they balance the sweetness of the frosting perfectly. Lemon cupcakes bring a zesty twist that contrasts nicely with the creamy vanilla. Red velvet cupcakes are another winner, offering a rich, velvety base. For something fruity, try strawberry cupcakes; their fresh taste complements the frosting beautifully. And don’t forget carrot cupcakes—their spiced flavor pairs surprisingly well with vanilla. Experiment with these pairings, and you’ll find your favorite combo in no time!
Cookie Combinations
Just like frosting needs the right cupcake, cookies deserve perfect pairings to make them shine. My homemade vanilla frosting is so versatile, it’s like a blank canvas for cookie creativity. Spread it on sugar cookies for a classic treat, or sandwich it between two soft chocolate chip cookies for a gooey surprise. I love using it to top gingerbread cookies—the vanilla adds a cozy sweetness that balances the spice. For something unexpected, try it on peanut butter cookies; the flavors blend beautifully. Don’t forget shortbread—its buttery base pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting. Every bite feels like a little celebration!
