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Ultimate Fluffy & Stable Vanilla American Buttercream Frosting

A small cake generously covered in swirls of fluffy, white vanilla buttercream frosting.
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Create the best homemade vanilla buttercream frosting that is rich, fluffy, and smooth. This reliable American buttercream recipe holds its shape perfectly for piping and decorating cakes and cupcakes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 to 5 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. This whipping time is key for achieving a smooth texture.
  4. If the frosting seems too stiff for spreading, add the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until you reach your desired consistency for spreading or piping.
  5. If the frosting is too soft for piping, chill it for 10 to 15 minutes before using.

Notes

  • For the smoothest frosting, ensure your butter is truly at room temperature, not melted.
  • Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps in your final creamy vanilla frosting.
  • If you need a stiffer frosting for intricate piping designs, reduce the amount of liquid or add a tablespoon more powdered sugar.
  • This recipe makes enough bakery style vanilla frosting to generously frost one 9-inch layer cake or about 18 cupcakes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://alchemychef.com/vanilla-buttercream-fluffy-10-minute-magic/