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The Best Classic, Easy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting for Piping

A tall, perfectly piped swirl of creamy vanilla buttercream frosting sitting in a white bowl.
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Make a creamy, fluffy, and stable American vanilla buttercream frosting perfect for piping decorations on cakes and cupcakes. This no-cook recipe is quick and reliable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  4. Add the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until you reach your desired smooth and pipeable consistency. Start with 2 tablespoons.
  5. If the frosting is too stiff, add more liquid, half a teaspoon at a time. If it is too soft, add more sifted powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
  6. Beat on high speed for one final minute before using it to frost your cakes or cupcakes.

Notes

  • For the best texture, ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted.
  • If you need a stiffer frosting for detailed piping work, use less liquid or add a little more powdered sugar.
  • For a slightly less sweet flavor, substitute half of the powdered sugar with sifted confectioners’ sugar.
  • If your kitchen is warm, chill the finished frosting for 10 minutes before piping.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonsprout.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe-easy-piping/