Make this smooth, tangy, and rich cream cheese frosting quickly. It holds its shape well for piping and is perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cinnamon rolls.
Author:emilyharrison
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:10 min
Yield:About 3 cups1x
Category:Dessert Topping
Method:Mixing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Place the softened cream cheese and butter in a large bowl. Beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Add the vanilla extract and salt. Mix briefly to combine.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated.
Increase the mixer speed to medium-high. Beat for 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting seems too thin, add the remaining powdered sugar, half a cup at a time, until you reach your desired thickness.
If you need a very stiff frosting for piping, chill the frosting for 15 minutes before using.
Notes
For a lump-free frosting, make sure your cream cheese and butter are fully softened to room temperature before mixing.
Start with 3 cups of powdered sugar for a tangier flavor. Add the fourth cup for a sweeter result.
This frosting is excellent for red velvet cake and cinnamon rolls.