Whip up this easy vanilla American buttercream frosting in just 10 minutes! With only four ingredients and one bowl, it’s the perfect sweet topping for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 24
Calories: 147 kcal
Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened
- 16 oz powdered sugar (about 3½–4 cups)
- 1–2 tbsp milk or heavy cream (up to ¼ cup, as needed)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions
- Cream the Butter:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a stand mixer (paddle or whisk attachment) or hand mixer on medium-high speed for 4–5 minutes until pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. - Add Sugar and Vanilla:
Turn off the mixer and add the powdered sugar and vanilla. Start mixing on low speed until the ingredients combine and the mixture becomes crumbly. - Whip the Frosting:
Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 3–4 minutes until the frosting is smooth, light, and fluffy. - Adjust Consistency:
If the frosting is too thick, add milk or heavy cream, ½ tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.
This rich and creamy vanilla buttercream is ready to spread or pipe onto your favorite desserts. Enjoy!
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