Description
This Buttercream Icing for Cupcakes recipe includes both vanilla and chocolate flavors, offering a creamy, fluffy, and perfectly sweet frosting for your homemade cupcakes. Whether you’re decorating classic vanilla cupcakes or rich chocolate ones, this easy-to-make icing will take your baking to the next level. Perfect for birthdays, parties, or any special occasion, this buttercream is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For Vanilla Buttercream:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Pinch of salt
For Chocolate Buttercream:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
3–4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Pinch of salt
Instructions
For Vanilla Buttercream:
- Beat softened butter in a large bowl with a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy, adjusting the consistency with more cream if needed.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
For Chocolate Buttercream:
- Beat softened butter in a large bowl for 2-3 minutes until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and sifted cocoa powder, alternating between the two, and mix well after each addition.
- Add vanilla extract, 3 tablespoons of heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy, adjusting consistency with more cream if needed.
- Use immediately or refrigerate for up to one week, bringing to room temperature before use.
Notes
For dairy-free options, use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk.
If your buttercream is too runny, add more powdered sugar. If too thick, adjust with a little extra heavy cream or milk.
Both vanilla and chocolate buttercream can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before using.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Frosting
- Method: Whisking, Beating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 24 cupcakes
- Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving (2 tablespoons)
