Classic Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 3 to 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 Tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- Begin by whipping the room temperature butter until it's light and fluffy.
- Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined. Next, add the salt, vanilla, and heavy cream, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Slowly mix in the remaining powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
The amount of powdered sugar can vary based on personal preference. I tend to like my frosting a bit thicker, so I add more. - If you're unsure, start with about 4 cups and adjust from there. Some prefer a thinner consistency for crumb coats and a thicker frosting for decorating.
Notes
Versatility: This frosting can be used for a variety of desserts, including cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Its classic flavor makes it a perfect match for almost any baked treat.
Consistency Tips: You have a lot of flexibility with the consistency. If you're looking for a lighter, more spreadable frosting, stick closer to the 3-cup range for powdered sugar. For a firmer, pipeable consistency, increase the powdered sugar to 5 cups.
Custom Flavor Options: While vanilla extract gives the frosting a traditional flavor, you can easily swap it out or add other extracts like almond, lemon, or coconut to suit the dessert you're making.
Adjusting for Different Conditions: Humidity and temperature can affect the frosting's consistency. If you're in a warmer environment, consider adding slightly more powdered sugar to help it hold its shape. Conversely, in colder conditions, you might need to add more heavy cream for a smoother spread.
Storage: This buttercream frosting can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip to restore its fluffy texture.
Yield Consideration: This recipe yields about 6 cups of frosting, which is enough to frost a standard two-layer cake or around 24 cupcakes, depending on how generously you apply the frosting.
Troubleshooting: If your frosting becomes too thick, add a little more heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, to thin it out. If it's too thin, add more powdered sugar in small increments until you reach your desired texture.
Decoration Tips: For those wanting to decorate, this frosting holds its shape well when piped. If you’re doing intricate designs, you may want to add additional powdered sugar for extra stiffness.
Nutrition
Serving: 1tbspCalories: 207kcalCarbohydrates: 41gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 52mgSugar: 40g
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