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

Scale

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