Vanilla Frosting

4 from 4 votes

This rich and creamy vanilla frosting is the perfect addition to any cake, cupcake, or brownie. It's sweet, smooth, and only takes 10 minutes to make.

Prep Time10

Total Time10

Course: Dessert Recipes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: buttercream frosting, easy frosting recipes, homemade buttercream frosting, how to make vanilla frosting, vanilla buttercream frosting, vanilla frosting, vanilla frosting recipe

Servings: cups

Author: Erin Sellin

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
3-4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 Tablespoons milk

Instructions

Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the softened butter until it is very smooth and creamy.
1/2 cup unsalted butter
Add 3 cups of the powdered sugar, and beat until combined. You can add more sugar if want it sweeter.
3-4 cups powdered sugar
With the hand mixer or stand mixer running, pour the vanilla and milk into the frosting. Beat until the frosting is smooth and the desired consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 3 Tablespoons milk
Taste the frosting and adjust as necessary. Add more sugar to make the frosting sweeter or thicker. Add more milk to make it thinner.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 weeks, or in the freezer for 6 months.
To use leftovers, let the frosting thaw for 3 hours if refrigerated, or 6 hours if frozen. Then mix with a hand mixer or stand mixer until the desired consistency.
For a creamier frosting, use whipping cream instead of milk.
You can spread the buttercream on cake with a knife or spatula, or use a piping bag.

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