If you’re on the hunt for a frosting that hits every note—rich, creamy, just the right balance of sweet and tangy—then this Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This luscious frosting brings together the smoothness of buttercream with the subtle tang of cream cheese, creating a dreamy spread that elevates everything from simple cupcakes to decadent layer cakes. It’s easy to whip up in just 10 minutes and works beautifully whether you’re decorating for a casual family treat or a special occasion. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to plain buttercream alone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is delightfully simple, yet each plays a vital role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor for your Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe. The balance between creamy butter, tangy cream cheese, and sweet powdered sugar is what makes this frosting truly unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick): Softened for easy mixing and a smooth, rich base without extra salt.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces): Softened and adds that signature tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (4 cups, sifted): Sweetens the frosting while ensuring it stays light and fluffy.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Brings warmth and depth to the flavor, rounding out the tang and sweetness.
- Heavy cream or milk (1-2 tablespoons, optional): Perfect for tweaking the consistency to make your frosting just right for spreading or piping.
How to Make Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Beat Butter and Cream Cheese
Start by beating the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese together in a large bowl with an electric mixer. This step is essential for achieving that luxuriously creamy, lump-free texture that defines the best Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe. Mix until everything is completely smooth and combined—this usually takes a few minutes and sets the foundation for the rest of the frosting.
Step 2: Gradually Add Powdered Sugar
Now, gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Keeping your mixer on low speed here is key to prevent a cloud of sugary dust flying everywhere. This slow incorporation helps maintain a silky texture while sweetening the frosting evenly throughout.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Beat Until Fluffy
Once all the powdered sugar is mixed in, pour in the vanilla extract and beat on medium speed. This step whips air into the frosting, lightening its body and enhancing the flavor balance that makes this Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe so irresistible. You’ll see it get fluffy and easy to spread.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency with Cream or Milk
If you find your frosting a bit too thick for your liking—especially if you want it to pipe beautifully—add 1 to 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk, little by little. Mix gently until you reach the consistency that feels perfect for your needs, whether spreading or piping intricate designs.
Step 5: Use Immediately or Store
Your Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe is ready to be enjoyed! Use it right away on your cakes, cupcakes, or cookies for best results. If you’re preparing ahead, you can refrigerate it for later use—just remember to give it a good stir before applying.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing, simplicity is often best. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries complement the tangy sweetness of this frosting beautifully. For a touch of elegance, consider a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder. These little touches not only add color but also texture that contrasts with the smooth frosting.
Side Dishes
This frosting pairs wonderfully with classic baked treats such as carrot cake, red velvet cupcakes, and spice cakes. Its creamy texture and subtle tang cut through richer desserts, balancing sweetness without overpowering. For a playful twist, try serving alongside fruit-filled pastries or even sweet potato muffins for that extra cozy, homemade vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t hesitate to get creative when displaying your frosting masterpiece. Pipe this Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe in elegant swirls with a star tip, or spread it casually for that rustic charm. Adding edible flowers or colorful sprinkles can turn a simple cupcake into a stunning celebration centerpiece. The creamy texture makes it perfect for both smooth finishes and artistic flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When you’re ready to use it again, simply let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes and stir gently to bring back its creamy texture. This flexibility lets you prepare a batch in advance without worry.
Freezing
If you want to keep your cream cheese buttercream frosting longer, it freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight and then bring to room temperature before stirring well. This makes it easy to have frosting ready for spontaneous baking sessions.
Reheating
Since cream cheese frosting shouldn’t be heated directly, it’s best to let it soften naturally at room temperature rather than reheating. If it feels too stiff after refrigeration or freezing, a quick gentle stir after warming in your hands or on the counter will revive the creamy softness without compromising its flavor or texture.
FAQs
Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese for this frosting?
While it’s possible, using full-fat cream cheese is strongly recommended for the best creamy texture and rich flavor. Reduced-fat versions can make the frosting slightly less smooth and more prone to separating.
How can I make my Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe less sweet?
Try reducing the powdered sugar slightly and adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. You can also experiment with more cream cheese to introduce extra tanginess without adding sugar.
Is it safe to leave cream cheese frosting out overnight?
Since this frosting contains cream cheese and butter, it’s best to refrigerate any leftovers immediately and not leave it out for more than two hours to prevent spoilage.
Can I color this frosting with food coloring?
Absolutely! Gel or paste food colorings work best to maintain the consistency without watering down the frosting. Add a little at a time until you reach your desired shade.
What cakes or cupcakes work best with this frosting?
This Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe pairs wonderfully with red velvet, carrot, spice, and chocolate cakes, but honestly, it’s delicious on just about any cake that benefits from a rich, tangy frosting.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this easy and incredibly delicious Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe in your baking arsenal, you’re ready to take your cakes and cupcakes to a whole new level. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this frosting’s perfect balance of creamy sweetness and tangy brightness will have everyone asking for your secret. So grab your mixer, and get ready to spread some joy—one luscious swirl at a time!
Print
Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Frosting
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This smooth and creamy Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting is a classic topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other baked treats. Made with softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, it combines tangy cream cheese flavor with sweet buttercream richness, resulting in a fluffy and delicious frosting that spreads easily and holds its shape well. Optional heavy cream or milk helps achieve the perfect consistency.
Ingredients
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (optional, for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Beat butter and cream cheese: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add powdered sugar gradually: Slowly incorporate the powdered sugar, adding it one cup at a time and mixing on low speed to prevent a messy sugar cloud and to ensure even blending.
- Mix in vanilla extract: Once all the powdered sugar is fully combined, add the vanilla extract and beat on medium speed until the frosting is fluffy and well blended.
- Adjust consistency: If needed, gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk, mixing a small amount at a time, to reach your desired frosting consistency—whether easier to spread or stiffer for piping.
- Use or store: Use the frosting immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes, or store it covered in the refrigerator for later use. Bring back to room temperature and rewhip before using if chilled.
Notes
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for the smoothest frosting.
- Sift powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the frosting.
- Use heavy cream for a richer flavor or milk for a lighter option when adjusting consistency.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Rewhip chilled frosting before use for best texture.
- This frosting pairs exceptionally well with red velvet, carrot, and chocolate cakes.
