Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese Frosting

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time if needed)
  • Yield: About 2 cups of frosting (enough for 12-16 cupcakes or one 8-inch cake) 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cream Cheese Frosting is a smooth, tangy, and creamy frosting that elevates cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and desserts. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it offers a perfect balance of rich and bright flavors, customizable texture, and versatility, making it an essential addition to any baker’s repertoire.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 34 cups (360-480g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Soften the Ingredients: Begin by allowing the cream cheese and unsalted butter to reach room temperature. This step ensures the ingredients blend smoothly without lumps, resulting in a velvety texture easy to spread or pipe.
  2. Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese and butter together until completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: Slowly add the powdered sugar in batches, mixing well after each addition to maintain a light, fluffy texture without any gritty bits.
  4. Add Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then continue to beat until the frosting is fully combined and perfectly smooth.
  5. Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to loosen it. For thicker frosting suitable for piping, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before use.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture; low-fat versions may be runnier.
  • Keep all ingredients at room temperature for smooth blending.
  • Sift powdered sugar to prevent clumps and ensure smoothness.
  • Avoid overbeating to prevent the frosting from becoming runny.
  • Chill frosting before decorating to help hold piped shapes.
  • Store frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Freeze frosting up to 3 months; thaw overnight and re-whip before use.
  • Do not microwave frosting; bring to room temperature naturally and beat lightly to restore texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (about 40g)
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg