How To Make The Best Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese frosting is a simple, yet delicious addition to layered cakes, cupcakes and more – But using the right ingredients and technique is essential! All you need are five ingredients – real butter, full-fat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract and salt – and these steps to bring this tangy delight to life.

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Step 1: Beat Softened Butter

Before you begin, make sure you have real, unsalted softened butter. Then, beat 1 stick of softened butter until light and fluffy. Beating the butter first is essential to ensuring you have a creamy, fluffy final frosting.

Step 2: Add Equal Parts Butter & Cream Cheese

Next, add 4 ounces of full-fat cream cheese. An equal ratio of butter to cream cheese yields a super smooth, spreadable frosting, while still maintaining the distinctive tangy flavor. Beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Over-whipping the cream cheese can lead to a stickier frosting.

Step 3: Sift or Whisk Powdered Sugar

Sift or whisk your powdered sugar before adding to your butter and cream cheese mixture. Doing this eliminates any lumps in your final frosting.

Step 4: Gradually Add Powdered Sugar

Now, beat in 2 cups of powdered sugar gradually to ensure it’s mixed in well. Stop between each addition to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 5: Beat Until Smooth & Fluffy

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt and continue to beat the mixture until it is light, smooth and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes.