If you’re the type who can’t pass up a good cup of coffee or the sight of a pillowy swirl atop a cupcake, get ready to fall head over heels for Coffee Buttercream Frosting. This dreamy, whipped frosting is everything you love about a bold, aromatic espresso paired with the creamy luxury of real butter—the result is a treat that’s equally at home on birthday layer cakes, brunch pastries, or as a decadent topping for everyday bakes. Sweet, rich, and unmistakably coffee-forward, this is the kind of frosting that’ll have your guests sneaking an extra spoonful, no questions asked.

Coffee Buttercream Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s beauty in simplicity, and the magic of this Coffee Buttercream Frosting lies in how just a few everyday staples come together for such a big-flavor punch. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect whipped, silky texture and that authentic coffeehouse taste.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Always start with room-temperature butter for the creamiest, fluffiest base—this is what makes the frosting irresistibly smooth.
Powdered sugar (3 cups): This adds sweetness and gives the frosting its stable, pipeable texture so you can swirl away to your heart’s content.
Instant espresso powder or instant coffee granules (1 1/2 tablespoons): The key to that bold, true coffee flavor—espresso powder delivers a more intense hit, perfect for coffee lovers.
Hot water (1 tablespoon): Dissolves the espresso powder, ensuring no gritty bits and a seamless infusion of coffee throughout the frosting.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and balance, making the coffee notes rounder and more aromatic.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch brings all the flavors together and cuts through the sweetness for a perfectly balanced bite.
Heavy cream or milk (1–2 tablespoons, as needed): Plays double duty by lightening the texture and helping you reach that ideal spreading consistency.

How to Make Coffee Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Dissolve the Espresso

Start by grabbing a small bowl and combining the instant espresso powder (or coffee granules) with hot water. Give it a good stir until it’s completely dissolved—this ensures that your Coffee Buttercream Frosting delivers a smooth, robust coffee flavor with every bite. Let the mixture cool for a minute or two; you don’t want to add it piping hot to the butter and risk melting it!

Step 2: Whip the Butter

Place your softened, room temperature butter into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer (stand or handheld), beat the butter for 2 to 3 minutes until it looks extra pale and fluffy. This step is actually the secret to a luscious, cloud-like Coffee Buttercream Frosting—don’t skimp on the beating time!

Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar

Now, slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. It helps to use a low speed at first so you don’t end up in a powdered sugar blizzard. Once all the sugar is in, go ahead and scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything’s well mixed.

Step 4: Mix in the Coffee and Flavorings

Pour in your dissolved espresso mixture, followed by the vanilla extract and salt. Beat everything together until smooth and creamy—watch as your frosting transforms into a rich caramel-flecked coffee dream!

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

If the Coffee Buttercream Frosting feels too thick for spreading or piping, add heavy cream or milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it’s just right. Flip your mixer to medium-high and whip for another 2 to 3 minutes, until the frosting is silky, spreadable, and holding soft peaks.

How to Serve Coffee Buttercream Frosting

Garnishes

The right garnish can make your Coffee Buttercream Frosting truly show-stopping. Try scattering a few chocolate-covered espresso beans, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or some delicate chocolate shavings on top. A light dusting of cinnamon can also complement the coffee notes beautifully, creating an extra layer of aroma and elegance.

Side Dishes

This frosting isn’t just a cake topper—it’s a flavor powerhouse that shines alongside all sorts of treats. Think fluffy vanilla or chocolate cupcakes, a classic yellow layer cake, or even as a swoon-worthy filling for homemade sandwich cookies. Serve with a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a balanced, unforgettable dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Let’s get playful! Pipe your Coffee Buttercream Frosting into tall swirls on cupcakes, spread thickly between cake layers, or slather it onto brownies for a coffeehouse-inspired twist. For brunch, try using it as a decadent filling for doughnuts or between breakfast cookies—coffee lovers will go wild. You can also offer it as a “frosting dip” on a dessert board with biscotti or shortbread for a whimsical party presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve made extra Coffee Buttercream Frosting (or just want to be prepared in advance), simply transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep happily in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before you plan to use it again—cold frosting can be too stiff to spread or pipe.

Freezing

Good news for planners: this frosting freezes beautifully! Place your Coffee Buttercream Frosting in a freezer-safe, airtight container and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then let it sit out until softened and re-whip for best texture.

Reheating

No need for the microwave—just let the chilled frosting reach room temperature naturally. Give it a vigorous whip with your mixer to restore its airy texture. If it still feels a touch stiff, an extra splash of cream or milk will bring it right back to creamy perfection.

FAQs

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant espresso powder?

It’s best to stick with instant espresso powder or granules for this recipe—they pack a strong coffee punch without watering down the frosting like brewed coffee would. For maximum flavor, go for espresso powder, but instant coffee granules work in a pinch!

How can I make this frosting vegan?

Yes, you can absolutely create a vegan Coffee Buttercream Frosting by swapping in your favorite plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk (like oat or almond) for the cream. Make sure your powdered sugar is vegan too!

How do I prevent my frosting from becoming curdled or grainy?

The trick is to start with truly softened butter and sift your powdered sugar before adding. Also, take your time incorporating the coffee mixture and sugar—mixing slowly and thoroughly ensures smooth, creamy results every time.

Can I color or flavor this frosting further?

Absolutely! You can add a dash of cocoa powder for mocha vibes, a bit of caramel extract for depth, or a touch of food coloring if you want to match a party theme. Just be sure to taste as you go so you don’t overpower the signature coffee flavor.

How much frosting does this recipe make?

This recipe yields enough Coffee Buttercream Frosting to generously top 12–16 cupcakes or fill and frost a 9-inch, double-layer cake, making it perfect for parties or special occasions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to give your cakes, cupcakes, or even cookies a treat worthy of your favorite café, don’t hesitate—whip up this Coffee Buttercream Frosting and let the rich, aromatic flavor take center stage. I promise, just one taste and you’ll want to put it on everything!

Coffee Buttercream Frosting Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Enough for 12–16 cupcakes or one 9-inch layer cake 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Coffee Buttercream Frosting. This luscious frosting is infused with the bold flavor of espresso, perfect for topping your favorite cakes and cupcakes.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Coffee Buttercream Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons instant espresso powder or instant coffee granules
1 tablespoon hot water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (as needed for consistency)

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Instructions

Dissolve Espresso Powder: In a small bowl, dissolve the espresso powder in the hot water and set aside to cool slightly.
Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add Ingredients: Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until fully combined and smooth.
Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream or milk 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Finalize: Beat for another 2–3 minutes until light, creamy, and spreadable. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator.

Notes

For a stronger coffee flavor, add an extra 1/2 tablespoon of espresso powder.
This frosting pairs beautifully with chocolate, vanilla, or caramel cakes and cupcakes.

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