Introduction
Cream cheese frosting is a classic choice for many desserts, adding a rich and tangy sweetness that perfectly complements cakes and cupcakes. This simple recipe from Love and Lemons yields a smooth and creamy frosting that is easy to whip up and can be adjusted for your desired consistency. Whether you’re baking a celebration cake or just want to add a delightful touch to your baked goods, this cream cheese frosting will elevate your treats.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 ounces full-fat, block-style cream cheese, softened slightly
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted if lumpy (more for a stiffer frosting)
⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
Sea salt, to taste
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
10 minutes
Yield
About 1½ cups of frosting, suitable for an 8- or 9-inch cake, a loaf cake, or a batch of 12 cupcakes. For a 9×13-inch sheet cake, double the recipe; for a layer cake, triple it.
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth and scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. For a stiffer frosting, beat in additional powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust, adding a pinch of salt if needed.
3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened unsalted butter using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Add Sugar and Vanilla
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until everything is smooth, making sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed for even mixing.
Step 3: Adjust Consistency
For a stiffer frosting, continue to mix in additional powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Flavor
Taste the frosting and adjust the flavor as necessary. Add a pinch of sea salt if you feel it needs more depth.
Step 5: Store the Frosting
Transfer the frosting to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 3 days.
Notes
Yield Information
This recipe yields approximately 1½ cups of frosting, which is suitable for an 8- or 9-inch cake, a loaf cake, or a batch of 12 cupcakes.
Scaling the Recipe
If you’re making a 9×13-inch sheet cake, consider doubling the recipe. For a layer cake, tripling the recipe would be appropriate.
Cook techniques
Mixing Cream Cheese and Butter
Beat the cream cheese and butter together using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Incorporating Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until fully combined, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl for an even texture.
Adjusting Consistency
If a stiffer frosting is desired, add extra powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until you achieve the desired consistency.
Taste Testing
After mixing the frosting, taste it to determine if it needs additional sweetness or a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor.
FAQ
How long can I store the cream cheese frosting?
You can store the cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How much frosting does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 1½ cups of frosting, suitable for an 8- or 9-inch cake, a loaf cake, or a batch of 12 cupcakes.
Can I use this frosting for a layer cake?
Yes, for a layer cake, you would want to triple the recipe to ensure you have enough frosting.
What if my frosting is too soft?
If the frosting is too soft, gradually mix in more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?
Absolutely! This cream cheese frosting is perfect for topping a batch of 12 cupcakes.
Conclusion
This cream cheese frosting is a delightful addition to a variety of baked goods. Its creamy texture and sweet, tangy flavor make it ideal for cakes and cupcakes. Remember to store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for future use.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Red Velvet Cake
Pair this cream cheese frosting with a rich red velvet cake for a classic combination that never fails to impress.
Carrot Cake
Use this frosting to top a moist carrot cake, enhancing the flavors of the spices and adding a creamy finish.
Chocolate Cupcakes
This frosting pairs wonderfully with chocolate cupcakes, providing a contrasting flavor that balances the sweetness of the chocolate.
Banana Bread
Spread the cream cheese frosting over freshly baked banana bread for a delightful twist on a classic treat.
Snickerdoodle Cookies
Frost snickerdoodle cookies with this cream cheese frosting to add a creamy layer to their cinnamon-sugar sweetness.
Pumpkin Muffins
Top pumpkin muffins with the cream cheese frosting for an autumn-inspired treat that enhances their flavors beautifully.
