Why make this recipe
Easy Buttercream Frosting is perfect for decorating sugar cookies. This frosting is creamy, smooth, and holds its shape well. It’s also customizable with flavors, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re decorating holiday cookies or birthday treats, this buttercream will give your cookies a delightful finish. Plus, it’s quick to make, saving you time in the kitchen!
How to make Easy Buttercream Frosting for Sugar Cookie Decorating
Ingredients:
- 12 oz softened salted butter (1 ½ cups)
- 17 oz powdered sugar (plus an additional few tbsp if stiffer buttercream is desired) (4 cups)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract (or 1/2 tsp for lighter almond flavor)
- 1 pinch salt (1/8 tsp ish)
- 1 tbsp French vanilla coffee creamer (Optional, substitute heavy cream and add extra vanilla and almond extract to taste)
Directions:
- Beat slightly colder than room temperature butter in the bowl of an electric mixer on medium-high for 1 minute.
- Scrape down the bowl and add vanilla and almond extract. Beat for another 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour in the powdered sugar along with the pinch of salt.
- Once the dry ingredients are mixed in, turn the mixer up to medium-high and beat for 5 more minutes.
- Turn the mixer on low again and pour in the coffee creamer (or heavy cream). Stir until combined, then continue to mix on low speed for another 3-5 minutes to remove air bubbles.
- For the best decorating texture, use a silicone spatula to hand mix a smaller amount in a bowl by pressing the buttercream against the sides to eliminate air bubbles.
- If the frosting is too soft, add a few more tablespoons of powdered sugar. Alternatively, chill it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm it up, then stir by hand before using.
- Frost your cookies using your favorite method and enjoy them within 3-5 days. Store in an airtight container at room temperature, or keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
How to serve Easy Buttercream Frosting
You can serve this buttercream frosting on top of your sugar cookies. Decorate the cookies using a piping bag for intricate designs or simply spread it on with a knife for a more rustic look. You can also mix different colors of frosting to create fun designs!
How to store Easy Buttercream Frosting
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, keep it in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for up to a week. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for a bit to soften, then mix it again if needed.
Tips to make Easy Buttercream Frosting
- Make sure your butter is at the right temperature—not too warm or too cold—for the best texture.
- If you want stronger flavor, you can increase the amounts of vanilla or almond extract.
- For bright colors, gel food coloring works better than liquid, as it won’t change the consistency of the frosting.
Variation
You can change the flavor of the frosting by substituting the vanilla or almond extracts with other extracts like lemon, peppermint, or orange. You can also add a little cocoa powder for chocolate buttercream!
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter if you prefer less saltiness in your frosting.
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the frosting a few days in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
How can I make my frosting colored?
You can add gel food coloring to the frosting and mix until you reach your desired color. Remember to start with a small amount, as a little goes a long way!
Easy Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Beat slightly colder than room temperature butter in the bowl of an electric mixer on medium-high for 1 minute.
- Scrape down the bowl and add vanilla and almond extract. Beat for another 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour in the powdered sugar along with the pinch of salt.
- Once the dry ingredients are mixed in, turn the mixer up to medium-high and beat for 5 more minutes.
- Turn the mixer on low again and pour in the coffee creamer (or heavy cream). Stir until combined, then continue to mix on low speed for another 3-5 minutes to remove air bubbles.
- For the best decorating texture, use a silicone spatula to hand mix a smaller amount in a bowl by pressing the buttercream against the sides to eliminate air bubbles.
- If the frosting is too soft, add a few more tablespoons of powdered sugar or chill it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm it up, then stir by hand before using.
- Frost your cookies using your favorite method, such as a piping bag for intricate designs or simply spreading it on with a knife.
- Enjoy the cookies within 3-5 days. Store in an airtight container at room temperature, or keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
- Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Before using, let it sit at room temperature to soften, then mix it again if needed.
