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Deliciously Easy Cream Cheese Frosting for Any Dessert Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 94 reviews
  • Author: Naomi
  • Total Time: 10 minutes plus chilling time of 30-60 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x

Description

This deliciously easy cream cheese frosting is a versatile and smooth topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. With a creamy texture and subtle tang from the cream cheese, it can be customized with vanilla, cocoa powder, or fruit purees to suit your flavor preference. Simple to make with just a few ingredients, it’s an ideal frosting for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
  • 4 ounces Butter (softened)
  • 2–3 cups Powdered Sugar (adjust to desired sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (can substitute with almond or lemon extract)
  • 1 pinch Salt (balances sweetness)

Optional Variations

  • Cocoa Powder (for chocolate variation)
  • Fresh Fruit Purees or Zest (for fruity flavor variations)

Instructions

  1. Combine Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 4 ounces of softened butter. Beat on medium speed for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually sift in 2-3 cups of powdered sugar, mixing on low speed initially to avoid a sugar cloud. Then increase speed to medium and beat for 2-3 minutes until the frosting becomes light and fluffy.
  3. Incorporate Vanilla and Salt: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Beat for another 1-2 minutes to fully integrate these flavors and achieve a uniform consistency.
  4. Chill for Thickness: For a thicker consistency ideal for piping or spreading, refrigerate the frosting for 30 to 60 minutes before using.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese and butter are properly softened to avoid lumps in the frosting.
  • Adjust powdered sugar quantity according to preferred sweetness and texture.
  • For chocolate frosting, add cocoa powder gradually and mix thoroughly.
  • Use fresh fruit purees or zest to introduce fruity flavor variations.
  • Refrigerate leftover frosting and bring to room temperature before reusing for best results.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert Frosting
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: cream cheese frosting, easy frosting recipe, dessert frosting, creamy frosting, vanilla frosting, chocolate frosting, fruit flavored frosting

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Find it online: https://naomifletcher.com/deliciously-easy-cream-cheese-frosting-for-any-dessert-recipe/