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The Ultimate Stable & Easy Cream Cheese Frosting (Perfect for Piping & Cinnamon Rolls)

A mound of fluffy, white cream cheese frosting piped into decorative swirls on a small white plate.
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Learn how to make the best cream cheese frosting that is rich, creamy, and holds its shape perfectly for decorating. This easy recipe delivers that classic tangy flavor and is ready in under 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 8 ounces (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Place the softened butter and softened cream cheese into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
  2. Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and holds stiff peaks. This step is key for a pipeable texture.
  4. If the frosting seems too soft for piping, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes before using. If it is too stiff, add 1 teaspoon of milk or cream and beat briefly to soften.
  5. Use immediately to frost carrot cake, red velvet cupcakes, or your favorite cinnamon rolls.

Notes

  • For the best texture, make sure both your butter and cream cheese are truly at room temperature, but not melted. This prevents lumps.
  • To achieve that perfect tangy sweet frosting balance, taste the frosting before adding all the powdered sugar. If you prefer more tang, slightly reduce the sugar amount.
  • This recipe makes a stable cream cheese frosting that holds its shape well for decorating. If you need extra stability for warm weather, substitute 2 tablespoons of the butter with 2 tablespoons of vegetable shortening.
  • This homemade cream cheese icing can be made ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature and re-whip briefly before using.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastetaught.com/easy-cream-cheese-frosting-recipe/