Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-versatile, Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is the crowning glory of countless cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Its smooth texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a beloved classic for both beginner bakers and seasoned pastry chefs. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of birthday cupcakes or layering a show-stopping celebration cake, this buttercream never disappoints.

Made with just a few pantry staples, this frosting comes together in minutes but tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. You can tint it with food coloring for vibrant treats or leave it a classic ivory. It holds shape beautifully for piping yet spreads easily across cakes for a flawless finish.

What Makes Vanilla Buttercream Frosting So Good?

Vanilla Buttercream’s magic lies in its simplicity. It’s all about the balance of butter and sugar, whipped to fluffy perfection with just enough cream and vanilla to make it silky and flavorful. Unlike meringue-based frostings, this version is quick, stable at room temperature, and incredibly forgiving—perfect for any baker.

Ingredients for the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Unsalted Butter: Start with room-temperature butter to ensure a smooth and fluffy base. It provides structure and that classic buttery taste.

Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this dissolves quickly and gives the frosting its signature sweetness and thickness.

Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. It enhances the richness and adds warmth.

Heavy Cream or Milk: A splash of cream creates that luscious, spreadable texture. Use heavy cream for extra richness.

Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and elevate all the flavors.

How To Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Add room-temperature butter to a large bowl or stand mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until the butter is light and creamy.

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar Gradually

Lower the speed and gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time. This helps prevent clouds of sugar and ensures even mixing.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Cream

Once the sugar is fully incorporated, add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat on medium-high until fully blended and fluffy. Add more cream if needed to adjust the consistency.

Step 4: Whip Until Fluffy

Continue whipping for an additional 2-3 minutes. The longer you beat, the lighter and fluffier the frosting will be.

How to Serve and Store Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Vanilla Buttercream is best used right after making it. Spread it over cooled cakes or cupcakes using a spatula, or fill a piping bag for more decorative designs.

To store, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.

What to Serve With Vanilla Buttercream Frosting?

Chocolate Cake

The richness of chocolate pairs beautifully with the light vanilla frosting.

Funfetti Cupcakes

Perfect for parties, the bright colors pop against the creamy white topping.

Sugar Cookies

Pipe onto cookies for a classic and elegant treat.

Red Velvet Cake

A luxurious contrast of color and flavor.

Brownies

Add a swirl of vanilla buttercream to elevate your brownies from snack to showstopper.

Macarons

Use as a filling for vanilla or fruity flavored macarons.

Layer Cakes

Gorgeous between layers and smooth enough for outer coatings.

Want More Frosting & Topping Ideas?

If you love this classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting, you’ll want to check out these deliciously unique options:

Cool Whip and Pudding Frosting for a fluffy, no-fuss twist.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake featuring a tangy cream cheese topping.
Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake with layers of luscious ganache.
No Bake Twinkie Pudding Cake topped with a cloud-like whipped frosting.
Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for those who love rich, fruity layers.

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And let me know in the comments how you used your buttercream! Did you go for a classic cake or try something creative like macarons? I’m always curious to see your sweet creations.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more dessert inspirations on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest. You’re sure to discover a new favorite!

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Frosts 12–18 cupcakes or 1 layered 9-inch cake
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Ready to take your cakes and cupcakes to the next level? This Vanilla Buttercream Frosting is a luscious, fluffy topping that spreads like a dream and pipes like a pro. Made with real butter, pure vanilla extract, and a touch of cream, it’s the ultimate classic frosting for decorating your favorite baked goods. Perfect for everything from quick breakfast pastries to birthday cakes and elegant desserts. If you’re looking for an easy recipe that checks all the boxes—versatile, crowd-pleasing, and packed with flavor—this is it. Great for party desserts, food ideas, and your go-to frosting for cookies or easy dinner desserts.