If you’ve ever found yourself mesmerized by the creamy allure of frosting on a cake, this cream cheese frosting recipe might just be your next obsession. The way it melts on your tongue—like a velvety cloud of sweetness—is almost poetic. I remember the first time I tried it; it was like discovering the secret to happiness, all wrapped up in a dollop of frosting.
Steps
- Allow the butter and cream cheese to soften at room temperature. This ensures they will blend smoothly without any lumps.
- Place the softened butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Use a stand mixer or electric hand mixer to beat them together until they are creamy and well-combined.
- Add vanilla extract and salt to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture while the mixer is on low speed. Continue mixing until the sugar is fully combined and the frosting is smooth.
- Once the frosting reaches your desired consistency, use it to frost cooled cakes or cupcakes. If you want a thicker frosting, you can add more powdered sugar in small increments.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (113g)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (brick-style, not spreadable) (226g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups powdered sugar (500g)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3504kcal | Carbohydrates: 480g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 168g | Saturated Fat: 96g | Trans Fat: 24g | Cholesterol: 504mg | Sodium: 1344mg | Potassium: 360mg | Sugar: 480g | Vitamin A: 6000IU | Calcium: 264mg | Iron: 24mg
FAQ
- Can cream cheese frosting be used for piping?
- Yes, this cream cheese frosting is ideal for piping. It has a thick consistency that holds its shape well. However, it’s important to note that it might melt in hot weather.
- How can I make my cream cheese frosting thicker?
- This recipe already yields a thick frosting, but if you need it thicker, you can add more powdered sugar, two tablespoons at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can incorporate cornstarch to thicken it without adding sweetness.
- Is it possible to add cornstarch to cream cheese frosting?
- Absolutely! While not included in the original recipe, adding cornstarch can help achieve a stiffer frosting. Add one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired thickness, but avoid exceeding a few tablespoons.
- What type of cream cheese should I use for the frosting?
- It’s best to use full-fat brick-style cream cheese rather than low-fat or spreadable types, which often come in a tub, to ensure the frosting has the right consistency and flavor.
- What should I do if my frosting is too thick and sweet?
- If your frosting turns out too thick and sweet, it’s likely due to over-measuring the powdered sugar. To adjust, gradually add a small amount of heavy cream or milk until you achieve the desired consistency.
Tips
- Use full-fat brick cream cheese instead of low-fat or spreadable versions to ensure the best consistency and flavor for your frosting.
- To control the saltiness in your frosting, opt for unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt to taste. If using salted butter, you can skip adding extra salt.
- Allow the cream cheese and butter to soften at room temperature before mixing. This will help achieve a smooth and lump-free frosting.
- If you plan to pipe the frosting, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture. This will prevent any lumps that might clog piping tips.
Equipment
- Stand Mixer or Electric Mixer – Essential for combining the ingredients until creamy and lump-free.
- Ateco 848 Piping Tip – Recommended for frosting cupcakes as shown in the photos.
- Piping Bags – Needed for piping the frosting onto the cupcakes or cake.
- Sifter – Useful for sifting powdered sugar to avoid clogging piping tips.
