Getting creative with frostings can elevate your baked goods from ordinary to extraordinary. When it comes to sweet treats, a delicious frosting made with powdered sugar is the perfect addition. In this article, we’ll explore 20 scrumptious frosting recipes that use powdered sugar as a key ingredient. From classic vanilla buttercream to strawberry cream cheese and maple cinnamon, there’s something for every taste bud.
Whether you’re looking to top a cake, cupcakes, or cookies, these frostings will add an extra layer of flavor and fun. In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe, sharing tips and tricks for achieving the perfect consistency, texture, and presentation. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to indulge in some sweet treats!
Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
This iconic frosting recipe is a timeless favorite, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. With its creamy texture and subtle vanilla flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar to the bowl, beating well after each addition.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Continue beating until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: None (this is a no-bake recipe!)
Tips:
– For a lighter consistency, add a little more powdered sugar. For a thicker consistency, add a little more butter.
– Use this frosting within 3-5 days of making it for optimal flavor and texture.
Cream Cheese Frosting with Powdered Sugar
A classic frosting recipe that combines the tanginess of cream cheese with the sweetness of powdered sugar, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces softened cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and beat until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until well combined.
4. Beat in the vanilla extract.
5. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar if too thin or a splash of milk if too thick.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply assemble and serve.
Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
Elevate your baked goods with this decadent chocolate buttercream frosting recipe, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2 cups (400g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 cup (120g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4-6 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder, beating until smooth and combined.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Add the milk or heavy cream, starting with 4 tablespoons and adding more as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Beat the frosting for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s light and fluffy.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– For a lighter frosting, use whole milk. For a richer frosting, use heavy cream.
– If the frosting becomes too thin, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before using.
Fluffy Whipped Cream Frosting
Elevate your baked goods with a cloud-like whipped cream frosting that’s easy to make and adds a touch of sweetness. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well to combine.
4. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
This sweet and tangy frosting is a perfect topping for any cake or cupcake. With its creamy texture and fruity flavor, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons strawberry puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Add the strawberry puree and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Cooking Time: None! This frosting is ready to use as soon as it’s mixed.
Tips:
– Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of strawberry puree to your taste.
– This frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before using.
Lemon Glaze Frosting
Brighten up your baked goods with this tangy and sweet lemon glaze frosting! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1-2 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated and creamy.
3. If desired, add a few drops of yellow food coloring to tint the frosting.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! This is a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in just a few minutes.
Peanut Butter Frosting
A creamy and delicious frosting perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2-3 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
3. Add in the milk or heavy cream, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Beat in salt to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time:
– Prep Time: 5 minutes
– Total Time: 10 minutes
Mint Chocolate Chip Frosting
Brighten up your favorite desserts with this refreshing mint chocolate chip frosting! This creamy and sweet treat is perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 2-3 drops green food coloring (optional)
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating until smooth and combined.
3. Add the peppermint extract and mix well.
4. If desired, add green food coloring to achieve the desired minty hue.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the frosting mixture until fully incorporated.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Cooking Time: None (frosting is ready to use once refrigerated and chilled)
Maple Cinnamon Frosting
Add a touch of warmth and sweetness to your baked goods with this delicious Maple Cinnamon Frosting recipe! This frosting is perfect for fall-themed treats, such as pumpkin spice cakes or apple muffins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2-4 drops vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
2. Add the maple syrup and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the ground cinnamon.
4. If desired, add vanilla extract for an extra boost of flavor.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Coconut Cream Frosting
This luscious frosting is a perfect topping for cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, with its creamy texture and sweet coconut flavor. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the best part is that you can adjust the consistency to your liking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) coconut cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the coconut cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until well combined.
4. Adjust the consistency by adding more confectioners’ sugar for thicker frosting or a little more coconut cream for thinner frosting.
Cooking Time: None (as this is an uncooked recipe)
Espresso Buttercream Frosting
Elevate your baked goods with this decadent espresso buttercream frosting, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4-6 tablespoons whole milk
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the espresso powder and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Add the milk, starting with 4 tablespoons and adding more as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Cooking Time:
None! This frosting is ready to use immediately after preparation.
Orange Zest Frosting
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your cakes and cupcakes with this bright and creamy Orange Zest Frosting! This recipe uses fresh orange zest to give it a unique and refreshing taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Beat the mixture for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the flavors are fully incorporated.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Use high-quality ingredients, like fresh orange juice and real vanilla extract, for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of orange zest to your taste; some people prefer a stronger or milder citrus flavor.
Raspberry Buttercream Frosting
Raspberry Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Add a sweet and tangy twist to your baked goods with this delicious raspberry buttercream frosting recipe. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this frosting is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons raspberry jam or preserves
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2-4 drops pink or red food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the raspberry jam or preserves and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. If desired, add a few drops of pink or red food coloring to achieve the desired shade.
5. Beat the frosting for an additional 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply assemble and serve.
Almond Joy Frosting
This creamy frosting recipe captures the essence of Almond Joy bars with its subtle coconut and almond flavors. It’s perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 2-3 drops pink food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut and almond extract. Mix until well combined.
4. If desired, add a few drops of pink food coloring to give the frosting a subtle pink hue.
5. Beat the mixture for an additional 30 seconds to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Cooking Time: None required! This frosting recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Caramel Drizzle Frosting
Transform your favorite desserts into a sweet masterpiece with this rich and creamy caramel drizzle frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120g) caramel sauce
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
2. Add in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, whisking until well combined.
3. Gradually pour in the caramel sauce, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for 1-2 minutes, or until light and fluffy.
5. Use immediately as a drizzle for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Cooking Time:
– None! This frosting is ready to use in just a few minutes.
Red Velvet Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your red velvet treats with this rich and creamy frosting that combines the perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and sweet red velvet flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Add the red food coloring and vanilla extract, mixing until the desired shade of red velvet is achieved.
4. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure a light and airy texture.
Cooking Time:
– None required! Simply mix and use.
Pumpkin Spice Frosting
Add a warm and inviting touch to your fall baking with this easy-to-make Pumpkin Spice Frosting recipe. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this frosting is infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pumpkin pie spice until well combined.
2. Add the softened butter to the bowl and mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk (if using), whisking until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook Time: None
Cookies and Cream Frosting
Elevate your baked goods with this creamy and delicious frosting infused with the classic flavors of cookies and cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2-3 drops blue food coloring (optional)
– 1 cup (120g) crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
4. If desired, add blue food coloring to tint the frosting. Mix until color is evenly distributed.
5. Fold in the crushed cookies until well combined.
Cooking Time:
– None! This is a frosting recipe, not a baked good.
Honey Cinnamon Frosting
Elevate your baked goods with this sweet and spicy frosting, perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon with the richness of honey to create a unique and delicious flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2-3 drops vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and combined.
3. Add the honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract (if using), and mix until well incorporated.
4. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of honey to your taste, depending on how strong you like the flavor.
– Use this frosting within a week of making it, as it’s best consumed fresh.
Cherry Almond Frosting
Add a burst of cherry flavor and crunchy texture to your baked goods with this simple Cherry Almond Frosting recipe. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies, this frosting is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons cherry jam or preserves
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 2 tablespoons chopped almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the cherry jam and almond extract until fully incorporated.
4. If desired, stir in the chopped almonds for added texture.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and serve.
Summary
Get ready to frost your way to sweet success with these 20 delicious recipes featuring powdered sugar! From classic vanilla buttercream to strawberry cream cheese and everything in between, this collection has got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a light and fluffy whipped cream or a rich and decadent chocolate buttercream, there’s something for every taste and occasion. With flavors ranging from minty fresh to pumpkin spiced, these frostings are sure to take your baked goods to the next level. So go ahead, get creative, and start frosting!
