Classic Cream Cheese Frosting
Total Time
10 minutes
Prep Time
10 minutes
Rating
4.3 out of 5 stars
(26)
Ingredients
1 2/3 cups
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar*
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Preparation
Step 1
You can make this frosting with a hand mixer or stand mixer, in a food processor, or by hand with a whisk in a mixing bowl (don’t skimp on the size).
Step 2
To start, combine the cream cheese and butter. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until they are fully blended.
Step 3
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, then stir the mixture with a spoon until the powdered sugar is incorporated (or else powdered sugar will fly everywhere!). Finally, whip the frosting until it’s nice and fluffy.
Step 4
Use the frosting immediately, or store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. Before using, let it warm to room temperature for about 15 minutes and briefly rewhip before using.
Step 5
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Chef's notes
*Powdered sugar note:
If you’d like to be absolutely certain that your icing is lump-free, sift your powdered sugar before mixing. You can also make your own powdered sugar out of regular granulated sugar.
Chocolate version:
For chocolate cream cheese frosting, blend in ⅓ cup cocoa powder with the powdered sugar. If desired, sweeten to taste with 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup.
Naturally sweetened version:
Don’t miss my recipe for naturally sweetened cream cheese frosting here.
