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The Best Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting: Smooth, Tangy, and Pipeable

A perfect swirl of white, fluffy cream cheese frosting piped high in a small white scalloped bowl.
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Learn to make the best cream cheese frosting that is luxuriously smooth, perfectly tangy, and holds its shape for decorating. This easy recipe delivers bakery-style results for cakes, cupcakes, and cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, cold
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium speed until smooth, about 1 minute.
  2. Add the cold cream cheese to the mixer. Beat on medium speed until just combined and smooth. Do not overmix at this stage.
  3. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  4. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.
  5. If the frosting is too soft for piping, chill it for 15 minutes before using. If it is too stiff, add 1 teaspoon of milk or cream until the desired consistency is reached.

Notes

  • For a lump-free frosting, ensure your cream cheese is cold and your powdered sugar is sifted before starting.
  • If you need a more stable frosting for warm weather or intricate piping, substitute 1/4 cup of the butter with 1/4 cup of vegetable shortening.
  • To make a maple cream cheese frosting, reduce the vanilla extract to 1/2 teaspoon and add 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup along with the vanilla.
  • You can freeze this frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then re-whip briefly before using.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/best-cream-cheese-frosting-recipe-easy-tangy/