Cream cheese frosting is a versatile and delicious topping that every baker should have in their repertoire. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it the perfect complement to a wide variety of cakes, cupcakes, and other baked goods. A good cream cheese frosting recipe is essential because it adds an extra layer of flavor and indulgence to your baked creations. Whether you’re making a classic carrot cake, a red velvet masterpiece, or simple vanilla cupcakes, cream cheese frosting takes your desserts to the next level. Not only is cream cheese frosting delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients like cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, you can whip up a batch of frosting in no time. Plus, it’s easy to customize with additional flavors like citrus zest, spices, or extracts to suit your taste. Having a good frosting recipe on hand is a must for any baker looking to elevate their desserts. So, next time you’re planning to bake, don’t forget to add cream cheese frosting to your list of must-have recipes!
Why make this recipe
This recipe is very simple and easy to make in just 5 minutes. So the next time you need a frosting doesn’t grab the storebought tub but buy these few ingredients. I promise you will get hooked on homemade frostings. I use a little whipping cream for my frosting. This adds that light and airy whipped cream consistency. I usually use a large bowl and whisk but you can also use a hand mixer or electric mixer. This recipe is an excellent treat for your favorite cupcakes. You can also use it to frost a cake or any other pastry. It is a stable frosting that you can use even under fondant. The stability of course comes from the butter that sets when chilled, unlike cream cheese that stays soft even when chilled. The rich cream cheese flavor of course comes from the full-fat cream cheese that whips up with the butter and powdered sugar. If you want a richer cream cheese flavor you can of course make a no-butter CC Frosting. You can freeze leftover frosting in the freezer in an airtight container for up to a month so don’t hesitate to make more than enough frosting.
Step-by-step: Best cream cheese frosting
Makes enough for 24 cupcakes, 8 or 9 x 2 layer cake
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and lemon juice if using. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to use. Allow the frosting to come to room temperature before frosting your cake or cupcakes.
Tips for Success
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and butter are both softened to room temperature before mixing. This will ensure a smooth and creamy frosting. Beat Well: Beat the cream cheese and butter together well until smooth and fluffy. This will help incorporate air into the frosting, giving it a lighter texture. Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture gradually, beating well after each addition. This will help prevent lumps and ensure a smooth frosting. Use Good Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract for the best flavor. Low-quality ingredients can affect the taste and texture of the frosting. Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, you can add a small amount of milk or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, you can add more powdered sugar to thicken it. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavorings, such as citrus zest, spices, or extracts, to customize the frosting to your liking. Chill Before Using: If the frosting is too soft, you can refrigerate it for a short time to firm it up before using. However, be careful not to refrigerate it for too long, as it can become too stiff. Store Properly: Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for several days, but let it come to room temperature before using it again.
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What can you frost with cream cheese?
Stuffed Cookies: Make cookie sandwiches by spreading cream cheese frosting between two cookies. Use oatmeal, chocolate chip, or sugar cookies for delicious combinations. Doughnuts: Fill doughnuts with cream cheese frosting for a delightful surprise. Dip the doughnuts in a glaze or roll them in cinnamon sugar for added flavor. Cinnamon Rolls: Spread cream cheese frosting over warm cinnamon rolls for a decadent twist on a classic treat. Add chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture. Pancakes or Waffles: Use cream cheese frosting as a topping for pancakes or waffles instead of traditional syrup. Add fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. Desserts: Use cream cheese frosting as a layer in desserts like trifles or parfaits. Alternate layers of cake, fruit, and frosting for a stunning presentation. Can you imagine cinnamon rolls without cream cheese? The same goes with pastries such as cream puffs, profiteroles, danish pastries, as well as puff pastry desserts like mille Feuille. Layer cakes – Red velvet cake, carrot cake, or pumpkin cake are, of course, popular with cream cheese, and for a good reason. Perfect frosting for sheet cakes whether you use chocolate cake or vanilla sheet cake. Stuffed French Toast: Spread cream cheese frosting between two slices of French toast for a deliciously indulgent breakfast or brunch option.
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