Making delicious buttercream frosting from scratch is a straightforward process that doesn't take long and can make all the difference when it comes to perfectly topping off your favorite desserts. Follow this step-by-step guide for easy instructions and tips on creating a delicious batch of sweet, creamy frosting.
Choose the Right Ingredients For Delicious Buttercream Frosting
Choosing the right butter can make all the difference in achieving a delicious and creamy buttercream. Use a block of unsalted, softened butter for best results. Apart from the butter, other key ingredients you will need are icing sugar, salt and cream or milk - these will help to create a smooth and creamy consistency that is not too thick or too runny. Adding flavoring such as Choosing the right butter can make all the difference in achieving a delicious and creamy buttercream. Use a block of unsalted, softened butter for best results. Apart from the butter, other key ingredients you will need are icing sugar, salt and cream or milk - these will help to create a smooth and creamy consistency that is not too thick or too runny. Adding flavoring such as vanilla extract or cocoa powder can also help to add an extra dimension of flavor like pure vanilla extract can also help to add an enhanced flavor.
Plant-Based Alternatives for Your Buttercream Frosting
For those who prefer to make a plant-based buttercream, there are several options. Coconut cream or coconut oil mixed with icing sugar can create a rich creamy texture, as can mashed avocado with powdered sugar and lime juice. To add flavor and color, pureed raspberries or blackberries can also be added to the frosting. Plant-based margarines such as Earth Balance can also make an excellent butter alternative when whipped together with icing sugar. I love using dairy free heavy whipping cream in place of cream or whole milk in a recipe.
Whipping it Up: How to Make Classic Buttercream Frosting
To begin, cream together softened butter (or your preferred plant-based alternative) and powdered sugar until light in texture. Add extract of your choice for added flavor, such as vanilla or almond. Then gradually add in milk, one tablespoon at a time until texture is thick but soft and spreadable. This can be done by hand with a spatula or with an electric mixer on the slowest speed setting. Stir in desired food coloring to make frosting even more fun! Enjoy!
Flavoring and Coloring Your Buttercream Frosting
To add extra flavor to your buttercream frosting, consider adding extracts like almond or vanilla for a sweet boost of flavor. You can also opt for more unique flavors such as lemon or mint. Combine the extract with other ingredients before beating with an electric mixer on the slowest speed setting. To make it even more interesting, food coloring can be added to achieve different hues. Start by stirring in a few drops of gel-based food coloring; if needed, add a teaspoon of corn syrup to help deliver the color into the frosting.
The Best Ways to Keep Your Delicious Buttercream Frosting Fresh and Delicious
To keep your buttercream frosting fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. If you find that the frosting is a bit too thick or dry, add in some heavy cream and mix until desired consistency is achieved. For longer-term storage, place the frosting in a freezer-safe container and put it in the fridge for up to two weeks. If stored right, your delicious buttercream frosting should last up to a month!
Recipes with Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Milk or heavy whipping cream as needed
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, place the butter. Beat on medium speed for several minutes. Turn off mixer, add in the powdered sugar. With the mixer on low, mix the powdered sugar and butter until the powdered sugar is incorporated. Once that is done, turn mixer to medium and add the vanilla and one to two tablespoons of milk. Continue beating until smooth. Add milk one tablespoon at a time if needed until frosting is smooth and holds it's shape. If frosting is too thin, add powdered sugar a quarter cup at a time.
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