If you believe every baker needs a go-to frosting, you’re in luck—meet my Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting. This velvety, cloud-like confection whips up in minutes and transforms even store-bought cake into a dreamy treat. It’s the kind of classic recipe you memorise after the first try, thanks to its foolproof texture and potent vanilla flavor. Whether you’re a birthday cake enthusiast or cupcake artist, this frosting recipe will become your most trusted companion in the kitchen.

Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are just a handful of kitchen staples, but each one plays a starring role. Simple as the list is, every ingredient has a purpose—delivering unwavering flavor, creamy texture, and that picture-perfect spreadability that makes Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting truly special.

Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): The heart of the frosting, lending richness and that melt-in-your-mouth magic. Use butter at room temperature for best results.
Powdered Sugar (3 1/2 cups, sifted): For dreamy smoothness and the ideal amount of sweetness—always sift to avoid pesky lumps!
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Don’t skimp here; real vanilla brings out the frosting’s beautiful, classic flavor.
Heavy Cream or Whole Milk (2-3 tablespoons): Cream creates extra fluffiness, but milk works perfectly if that’s what you have on hand.
Pinch of Salt: Just enough to balance sweetness and let those buttery notes shine.

How to Make Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Start by beating softened, high-quality unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Let your mixer run for 2 to 3 minutes at medium speed—you want it light, airy, and just a bit paler in color. This is key for a smooth and luxurious texture that’s never greasy or heavy.

Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar Slowly

With the mixer on low, add your sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time. Patience pays off here—incorporating gradually means a smoother, silkier frosting and no sugar clouds in your kitchen! Once all the sugar is added, beat well after each addition and scrape down the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Blend in Vanilla and Salt

Now, pour in those pure vanilla extract drops and a pinch of salt. Crank the mixer up to medium-high for another 2–3 minutes. You’ll see the frosting fluff up and develop that signature lightness that everyone loves in Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting.

Step 4: Adjust with Cream or Milk

Add the heavy cream or milk, a tablespoon at a time, until your frosting hits the sweet spot: smooth, scoopable, and perfectly spreadable. This little step makes all the difference if you want effortlessly swirled cupcakes and swoon-worthy layer cakes.

Step 5: Spread, Pipe, or Swirl

Give the bowl a final scrape to ensure all of your frosting is mixed evenly. Then use immediately to frost your favorite treats—whether you love a rustic swirl or sharp, piped edges, this frosting holds its shape like a dream.

How to Serve Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Garnishes

Let the taste shine or play things up with a playful finish. Sprinkle with rainbow nonpareils, chocolate shavings, edible flowers, or fresh berry slices—the neutral, classic flavor of Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting pairs with any garnish you can imagine.

Side Dishes

Pair your frosted cakes or cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a tart fruit salad to balance the richness of the buttercream. Coffee or hot cocoa on the side makes for a cozy, soul-warming dessert moment that feels extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform simple sugar cookies into edible art with a swipe of buttercream and food coloring. Pipe rosettes onto a layer cake, create ombre frosted cupcakes, or even sandwich a layer between homemade macaron shells for a bakery-style treat. Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting turns the ordinary into unforgettable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extra frosting? Store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, let it come back to room temperature and re-whip to reawaken its fluffy, silky personality.

Freezing

Want to plan ahead? Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting can be frozen! Place it in a freezer-safe container, pressing plastic wrap directly onto the frosting surface. It’ll keep beautifully for up to three months—simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temp before using.

Reheating

If your chilled or thawed frosting seems stiff or separated, don’t worry. Beat it for a minute or two with your mixer, and if needed, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back that dreamy consistency everyone expects from Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting.

FAQs

Can I make Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! A hand mixer works just as well. You’ll want to beat a little longer to reach that signature fluffy texture, but the results are just as delicious.

How do I make my buttercream pure white?

For pure white frosting, use clear vanilla extract and beat your butter for several extra minutes to lighten its color before adding other ingredients. Some bakers even add a tiny dot of violet gel coloring to neutralize yellow tones.

Will this frosting hold its shape for piping decorations?

Yes! Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is perfect for piping flowers, borders, and fancy swirls. If it feels too soft, chill briefly or add a tablespoon more powdered sugar for extra structure.

Can I flavor this buttercream with other extracts?

Definitely. Swap out some or all of the vanilla with almond, lemon, or even coconut extract for a fun twist on this beloved classic. Just use a little at a time—flavor extracts can be potent!

Is it possible to make this frosting dairy-free?

Yes! Use a high-quality plant-based butter and a splash of non-dairy milk. While the texture may differ slightly, you’ll still get a wonderful, creamy result that’s perfect for dairy-free desserts.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that never lets you down, try this Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting and watch it become your kitchen hero. Trust me—once you experience how easy and luxurious homemade buttercream can be, you’ll find yourself making up excuses to bake just so you can use it!

Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 12 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Enough to frost 24 cupcakes or a 9-inch layer cake
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Favorite Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is a classic, versatile frosting that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. With a rich buttery flavor and a hint of vanilla, this frosting is smooth, creamy, and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until light and creamy.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well on low speed after each addition.
Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then increase the mixer to medium-high speed and beat for another 2-3 minutes.
Add the heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency—smooth, fluffy, and spreadable.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Use immediately to frost cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.

Notes

For extra stability in warm weather, replace half of the butter with vegetable shortening.
This frosting can be tinted with gel food coloring and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Bring back to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American