Description
This recipe offers two delicious variations of buttercream icing for cupcakes: classic vanilla and rich chocolate. Both frostings are creamy, smooth, and perfect for piping or spreading on your favorite cupcakes. The vanilla buttercream is light and sweet with a hint of vanilla, while the chocolate version features the deep flavor of unsweetened cocoa powder. Easy to prepare without any cooking required, these buttercreams can be made ahead and stored for later use.
Ingredients
Scale
Vanilla Buttercream
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Pinch of salt
Chocolate Buttercream
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Vanilla Buttercream: Beat the softened butter on medium speed until it becomes light and creamy, about 2–3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully combined. Add the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for an additional 2–3 minutes until fluffy and smooth. Add more cream if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
- Prepare Chocolate Buttercream: Beat the softened butter on medium speed until smooth. In a separate bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter while beating on low speed until combined. Mix in the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and 3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2–3 minutes until the mixture is light, creamy, and well incorporated. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream if needed.
Notes
- Buttercream can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Before using stored buttercream, bring it to room temperature and re-whip to restore fluffiness.
- Both vanilla and chocolate buttercream frostings are excellent for piping decorative designs or spreading generously on cupcakes.
- You can add food coloring to the vanilla buttercream to customize the color for special occasions.
