Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

One yellow cake cupcake with a swirl of vanilla frosting and sprinkles on top.

5 from 2 votes

Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting (also called American Buttercream) is my go-to frosting recipe for cakes and cupcakes; it's simple and delicious.

Course Baking, Dessert, DIY, Snack

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free

Prep Time 20

Mix Time 6

Servings servings

Calories 155kcal

Author Lise Sullivan Ode

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar or 16 ounces
¼ cup heavy whipping cream or 3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Beat softened butter on medium speed with an electric mixer or stand mixer. Beat for 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla extract with the mixer running on low. Increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes. Note: If the frosting is too thick, you can add a little more cream. Just add one tablespoon at a time, then mix thoroughly until you get the consistency you like.
Now it's ready for filling and frosting your cake. Or you can use it to decorate cupcakes. You will have enough frosting for an 8-inch round two layer cake (filled and frosted) or 24 cupcakes.

Notes

If you don't have heavy cream, you can use milk or water instead. If using milk or water, I would try 3 tablespoons instead of ¼ cup. If it's too thick, add another tablespoon.

Nutrition