Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese Frosting

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Enough to frost one 9-inch cake or 24 cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cream Cheese Frosting is a smooth, creamy, and tangy topping perfect for cakes and cupcakes. Made with simple pantry staples like full-fat cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, this frosting offers a rich and versatile flavor that enhances a variety of baked goods from carrot cake to red velvet. Its silky texture spreads easily and holds decorative shapes well, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers looking to elevate their desserts.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Soften the Ingredients: Remove cream cheese and butter from the refrigerator ahead of time and let them soften at room temperature. This ensures easy mixing and a smooth texture.
  2. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, blend the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy and fully combined, about 2โ€“3 minutes.
  3. Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: Slowly sift in the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to prevent dust clouds and to fully incorporate the sugar for a velvety finish.
  4. Add Vanilla and Salt: Pour in vanilla extract and add a pinch of salt, then whip the mixture for another minute to combine all flavors seamlessly.
  5. Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or cream and mix again; if too thin, add a little more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
  • Beat ingredients thoroughly but avoid overmixing to prevent runny or grainy frosting.
  • Sift powdered sugar before adding to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth frosting.
  • Keep all ingredients at room temperature for the smoothest blend and easiest spreading.
  • If frosting feels too soft, chill briefly to firm up without losing spreadability.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (approx. 30g)
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg