Easy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Side view of frosted cupcakes with sprinkles next to a jar of homemade vanilla buttercream frosting.

This Easy Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is soft, creamy, and perfectly sweet. Great for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more—it’s a simple recipe you’ll use again and again!

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: buttercream, frosting

Servings: cups

Calories: 200kcal

Author: Misty Tannery

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter room temperature (this is very important)
¼ teaspoon salt
3 cups powdered sugar
3 Tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

With an electric mixer beat the butter until creamy. It usually takes about 2 minutes.
Add the salt and stir again to combine together.
Working with ½ cup at a time, add in the powdered sugar. Mixing completely before adding more.
With the mixer on medium-low speed add the heavy cream 1 Tablespoon at a time and then the vanilla. Increase the speed to high and beat for about 1 minute.
This is where you can adjust the consistency. If it is to thin for you add more powdered sugar, about ¼ cup at a time. If the frosting is too thick you can add ½-1 Tablespoon heavy cream until thinned to your liking.
Cover tightly in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutrition