Buttercream Icing for Cupcakes (Vanilla and Chocolate) Recipe
Introduction
Buttercream icing is a classic topping that adds rich, creamy sweetness to cupcakes, cakes, and cookies. This simple recipe creates a fluffy, smooth vanilla buttercream that you can easily customize or color to suit any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter (softened)
- 4 cups confectioners powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (use clear vanilla for pure white icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Step 1: Add softened butter into a large bowl and cream it with an electric hand mixer for 1 minute until smooth and fluffy.
- Step 2: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully combined.
- Step 3: Add vanilla extract and milk, then continue to beat the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until very fluffy and light.
- Step 4: Spread or pipe the buttercream onto cupcakes, cakes, or sugar cookies. Serve and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For chocolate buttercream, add ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder with the powdered sugar.
- If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Use clear vanilla extract to keep the icing bright white instead of the traditional slight off-white tint.
- Chill the buttercream slightly if it becomes too soft to pipe or spread.
Storage
Store any leftover buttercream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using again, bring to room temperature and re-whip with a mixer for best texture. This icing is best enjoyed fresh but keeps well when stored properly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter. You may want to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness in that case.
How do I fix buttercream that’s too runny?
Place the buttercream in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm up, then re-whip it to restore fluffiness. If needed, add more powdered sugar to thicken it further.
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Buttercream Icing for Cupcakes (Vanilla and Chocolate) Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost 24 standard cupcakes
Description
This classic Buttercream Icing recipe is perfect for decorating cupcakes, cakes, and sugar cookies with a smooth, creamy texture and rich vanilla flavor. The simple blend of salted butter, confectioners sugar, vanilla extract, and milk creates a fluffy and sweet frosting that’s easy to make and customize for any occasion.
Ingredients
Buttercream Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 4 cups confectioners powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (use clear vanilla for pure white icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Cream the Butter: Place the softened salted butter into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric hand mixer, beat the butter for about 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the confectioners powdered sugar to the bowl, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until fully combined and the mixture begins to thicken.
- Flavor and Thin the Icing: Pour in the vanilla extract and milk, continuing to beat the mixture on medium speed. Mix for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the icing becomes very fluffy and light in texture.
- Spread or Pipe: Use the buttercream immediately to spread or pipe onto cupcakes, cakes, or sugar cookies for a beautifully smooth and creamy finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once decorated, allow the icing to set slightly before serving, then enjoy your delightful sweet creation.
Notes
- For a perfectly white icing, use clear vanilla extract instead of regular vanilla.
- If the buttercream is too thick, add more milk one teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- For a stiffer icing suitable for piping detailed decorations, use less milk.
- Softened butter is key to achieving smooth, lump-free icing.
- Buttercream can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week; rewhip before use if it hardens.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: buttercream icing, vanilla buttercream, cupcake frosting, easy buttercream, classic frosting, homemade icing
