Cream cheese frosting is my favorite frosting for many cakes like carrot cake, red velvet cake, chocolate cake, sandwich cookies, cupcakes etc. The recipe below makes a smooth, creamy, not too sweet frosting and can be made ahead of time. And yes, it’s super easy to make!
For best results, it’s important to make sure you use a full-fat cream cheese at room temperature. For a light and fluffy frosting, the unsalted butter should also be at cool room temperature. The secret ingredient in this recipe is actually vanilla. Regular vanilla extract is fine, but vanilla paste is BEST! It gives a deeper vanilla flavor to the frosting. Make sure you sift the powdered sugar before adding it into mixture. This will ensure no lumps or clumps will ruin your frosting. If you think your cream cheese frosting is a bit too sweet, just add a splash of lemon juice.
Storage
Cream cheese frosting can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to one month. Make sure you use an airtight container and before using, bring to room temperature and re-whip with an electric mixer.
Ingredients
- 500g cream cheese
- 175g unsalted butter
- 250g icing sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla paste
Steps
Beat the cream cheese, butter and vanilla on medium-high speed until creamy and smooth.
Gradually, add in powdered sugar and beat on low speed until fluffy.
For a stiffer result just add more powdered sugar.
Note
You can always turn this cream cheese frosting into chocolate cream cheese frosting by adding about 100g cocoa powder and 2 tbsp of milk. And again, make sure you sift the cocoa before adding it to the mixture.
Cream cheese frosting can be thin and runny if you are using cream cheese spread instead of full fat cream cheese. And I must admit, I often use the spread as I don’t find the full fat cream cheese in all stores. In this case, a food thickener can solve the problem. I like to use arrowroot powder. It has no taste and doesn’t change flavors. Just add a teaspoon of the powder at the very end and your frosting will get thicker in minutes.
You can add this delicious and creamy frosting on any baked treat and it’s instantly on a whole new level!
