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The Ultimate Fluffy & Stable American Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

A large, beautifully piped mound of white vanilla buttercream frosting sitting on a white plate.
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This American Vanilla Buttercream recipe delivers the creamy, fluffy texture you need for decorating cakes and cupcakes. It is simple to make and holds its shape well for piping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the butter on medium speed until it is completely smooth and creamy, about 3 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 just combined after each addition.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes. This step incorporates air, making the frosting fluffy.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium-high speed for another 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  5. If the frosting seems too stiff for piping, add the remaining cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Beat well after each addition.
  6. Use immediately for frosting cakes or cupcakes, or store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Notes

  • For the best, most stable frosting, make sure your butter is truly at room temperature—soft but not greasy or melted.
  • Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps and helps you achieve a smooth texture for piping frosting.
  • If you need a stiffer frosting for intricate decoration frosting, reduce the liquid slightly or add 1-2 tablespoons of additional sifted powdered sugar.
  • This recipe makes enough creamy buttercream to generously frost one 9-inch layer cake or about 18 cupcakes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorzine.com/vanilla-buttercream-fluffy-stable-recipe/