How To Make Rich And Creamy Cream Cheese Frosting

Light, fluffy Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect topper to many of our very favorite desserts. From cinnamon rolls to red velvet cupcakes, this rich icing takes regular sweets to the next level. Plus, it’s really easy to make! Different than buttercream, this tangy cream cheese frosting is less sweet but still has a rich flavor and is so delicious. Read on to find out how to make this easy cream cheese frosting recipe smooth and creamy every time.

Ingredients in Cream Cheese Frosting

This fluffy, decadent topping comes together with just five ingredients! Here’s all you need for this classic cream cheese frosting:

Cream cheese – you’ll need eight ounces of ROOM TEMPERATURE, full-fat cream cheese. Butter – unsalted butter works best for this recipe. However, if you like a little taste of salt, you can use salted butter, or add a pinch of salt in to the mixture. Also make sure the butter is softened or at room temperature. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Powdered sugar – start with one pound, but you can add more if needed, depending on your desired texture and taste. Milk – this is just optional, and only add if the frosting is too thick. Add a couple of tablespoons at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Tips for Perfect Frosting

Just like Goldilocks, you want your cream cheese frosting juuuuust right. If you’ve followed the recipe below and it’s still too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, just add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Use a rubber spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl as you mix, so all the ingredients remain incorporated. Use an electric mixer, rather than a hand mixer, with a paddle attachment or whisk attachment, adding all the ingredients into the bowl of a stand mixer. Start on low speed, then once all the ingredients are mixed together, raise it up to medium speed and whip for up to five minutes so it gets light, airy, and super fluffy.

Variations on the Classic Cream Cheese Frosting

Add cocoa powder to make chocolate cream cheese frosting! So yummy on vanilla or yellow cakes. Add a teaspoon of coconut extract or almond extract for different flavors. Add a teaspoon or so of lemon zest for a vibrant, bright flavor.

How to Store Frosting

Once prepared, this frosting can sit at cool room temperature for up to eight hours before it needs to be kept in the refrigerator. Then it should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Plus, you can freeze cream cheese frosting for up to a month! Thaw in the fridge before using. READ MORE: 33+ Easy Dessert Recipes