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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Rich Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

This rich vanilla buttercream frosting is incredibly smooth, perfectly sweet, and spreads like a dream. It’s ideal for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or just by the spoonful (we won’t judge). With only a handful of ingredients, you’ll never go back to store-bought frosting again.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Mixing Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 24 cupcakes
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups 454 g unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 6 cups 720 g powdered sugar (adjust between 4–7 cups as preferred)
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  • ½ tsp 3 g salt
  • ¼ cup 60 g heavy cream

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter on medium-high speed for 5 minutes until light and fluffy.
  2. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. Add half the powdered sugar and mix on low until incorporated.
  4. Repeat with the second half.
  5. Add vanilla extract and salt. Mix until smooth.
  6. Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while mixing on low.
  7. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/rich-vanilla-buttercream-frosting/

Notes

  • For extra silky frosting, sift the powdered sugar before using.
  • If the frosting is too thick, add a splash more cream. Too thin? Add a bit more sugar.
  • This frosting holds up well for piping and decorating.