This Bakery-Style Vanilla Frosting is the ultimate topping for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
With its creamy texture and rich vanilla flavor, it brings a professional touch to your homemade desserts.
Easy to prepare and perfect for piping, this frosting is a must-have in your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Frosting
Creamy and Smooth: Achieves a perfect consistency for spreading or piping.
Achieves a perfect consistency for spreading or piping.
Rich Vanilla Flavor: Enhanced with pure vanilla extract for authentic taste.
Enhanced with pure vanilla extract for authentic taste.
Quick to Make: Ready in just 5 minutes with simple ingredients.
Ready in just 5 minutes with simple ingredients.
Versatile: Ideal for various baked goods, from cupcakes to layered cakes.
Ideal for various baked goods, from cupcakes to layered cakes.
Stable: Holds its shape well, making it excellent for detailed decorations.
Holds its shape well, making it excellent for detailed decorations.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich base and smooth texture.
Provides a rich base and smooth texture.
Vegetable Shortening: Adds stability and helps the frosting hold its shape.
Adds stability and helps the frosting hold its shape.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
Pure Vanilla Extract: Delivers authentic vanilla flavor.
Milk or Cream: Adjusts the consistency to your preference.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter is softened for easy mixing.
Sift Powdered Sugar: Prevents lumps and creates a smoother frosting.
Adjust Consistency: Add milk or cream gradually to reach desired thickness.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon for unique twists.
Coloring: Use gel food coloring to achieve vibrant hues without altering consistency.
How to Make Bakery-Style Vanilla Frosting
Step 1: Cream Butter and Shortening
In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment (or use a hand mixer), cream the unsalted butter and vegetable shortening on medium speed for about 1 minute.
The mixture should look light and airy.
Step 2: Add the Slurry
In a small bowl, mix room temperature water, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour it into the mixer with the creamed fat.
Add the salt and beat until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Mix in the Sugar
Add powdered sugar one cup at a time.
Once fully incorporated, whip the mixture on medium-high speed for 3 full minutes until fluffy and light.
How to Make Bakery Chocolate Frosting
Step 1: Cream the Fats
In a clean mixing bowl, cream together the butter and shortening just like in the vanilla version—until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Slurry
In a separate cup, stir together water, cornstarch, and cocoa powder until smooth.
Add in the vanilla extract and salt, then mix this into the butter mixture.
Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar and Whip
Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time.
Once all sugar is added, whip the chocolate frosting for 3 minutes to create a light, mousse-like texture.
What to Serve It With
Classic Vanilla Cupcakes: Enhances the flavor with its rich vanilla profile.
Chocolate Layer Cakes: Provides a sweet contrast to the deep cocoa taste.
Sugar Cookies: Perfect for decorating with piped designs.
Red Velvet Cake: Complements the subtle cocoa flavor with creamy sweetness.
Banana Bread: Adds a delightful twist to a traditional loaf.
Variations / Substitutions
Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
Flavor Infusions: Add citrus zest or flavored extracts for a unique taste.
Color Customization: Incorporate food coloring to match themes or occasions.
Reduced Sugar: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to suit your sweetness preference.
Stabilized Frosting: Add a tablespoon of cornstarch for a firmer texture, suitable for warm environments.
Storage & Leftovers
Room Temperature: Can be left out for up to 2 days in a cool environment.
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before use.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and beat until smooth before using.
FAQs
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, store it in the refrigerator and re-whip before using to restore its texture.
Is this frosting suitable for piping intricate designs?
Absolutely, its stable consistency makes it ideal for detailed decorations.
Can I use this frosting under fondant?
Yes, it provides a smooth base for fondant-covered cakes.
How can I make the frosting less sweet?
Reduce the amount of powdered sugar and balance with a pinch more salt or a splash of lemon juice.
Can I add food coloring to this frosting?
Yes, gel food coloring works best to maintain the frosting’s consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Bakery-Style Vanilla Frosting brings a professional touch to your homemade desserts.
Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Whether you’re decorating cupcakes for a party or adding the finishing touch to a birthday cake, this frosting delivers both taste and elegance.
Bakery-Style Vanilla Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and shortening until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract, milk or cream, and salt.
- Continue to beat until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency.
- Increase the mixer speed to high and whip the frosting for an additional 2-3 minutes until it's airy and ready for use.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/bakery-style-vanilla-frosting/
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.