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The Best Fluffy & Stable American Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

A single cupcake generously topped with swirls of light, fluffy vanilla buttercream frosting, sitting on a white plate.
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Make the ultimate, classic American vanilla buttercream frosting. This recipe guarantees a creamy, smooth, and stable texture perfect for piping cakes and cupcakes, ready in minutes.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream (add more if needed)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Increase the speed to medium and beat until combined.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Mix well.
  4. Slowly add the milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, beating on medium speed until the frosting reaches your desired fluffy and smooth consistency. Beat on medium-high for 3 to 5 minutes to incorporate air, making it light and ready for piping.
  5. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk. If it is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
  6. Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.

Notes

  • For the best results when piping, ensure your butter is perfectly softened, not melted.
  • Sifting the powdered sugar prevents a grainy texture in your smooth cake frosting.
  • This recipe makes enough frosting for one 9-inch layer cake or about 18 standard cupcakes.
  • To make this a bakery style buttercream that holds up well, use heavy cream instead of milk.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/vanilla-buttercream-frosting-recipe-fluffy/